Opposition lawmaker Hon. Myron V. Walwyn criticized the government’s practice of rushing important legislation through the House of Assembly while warning against compromising civil liberties in the name of law enforcement.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday the Sixth District Representative highlighted concerns over recent bills, including the Police Act and Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Amendment Bill 2025, which initially contained provisions he deemed unconstitutional.
Walwyn argued that the effectiveness of law enforcement should not come at the cost of our civil liberties. He criticized the government’s practice of pushing bills through all three readings in a single sitting.
Walwyn revealed that some Cabinet members admitted to not reading bills before approval, calling it “a clear dereliction of duty.”
The opposition successfully secured amendments to both bills during the committee stage, including changes to controversial provisions about phone password disclosure and electronic surveillance. The modified bills now await the Governor’s Royal Assent.
While emphasizing community support for law enforcement efforts against crime, Walwyn advocated for an independent authority to oversee surveillance activities instead of leaving such powers solely with the police commissioner.