The Bahamian government yesterday signed an amendment to the Letter of Agreement on Narcotics Control Law Enforcement with the United States, which would provide over $1.4 million to fight crime and corruption throughout the country.
“This most recent amendment will result in the United States providing over $1.4 million for law enforcement, professionalization support and rule of law, transparency and anti-corruption reform in The Bahamas,” said Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis, during the press conference. “Additional activities will include assistance with legislative reform, the creation of anti-corruption bodies and the provision of training, technical assistance and equipment to law enforcement and the financial, judicial, and civil society sectors.”
Minnis said the additional support from the U.S. will also help to facilitate the advancement of the country’s national security strategies to reduce crime, strengthen the borders and reduce the recidivism rate.
“Moreover, the scope of the amendments to the existing agreement with respect to transparency and anti-corruption will support public sector modernization and the ease of doing business,” he added.
“This lends well to the aggressive targeting of systematic corruption by my government which aims to reduce the significant burden which corruption places on the public purse; to further stimulate foreign direct investment by enhancing confidence in our institutions; improve the quality of and standard of government services and to decrease the level in inequality.”
