Changing the name of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda will mean little unless longstanding problems surrounding leadership, discipline, training and promotions are addressed, two prominent commentators have argued.
Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Nuffield Burnette and attorney-at-law Gail Pero say the proposed move from a “police force” to a “police service” risks becoming little more than a cosmetic change if it is not accompanied by wider institutional reform.
Speaking on Observer Radio’s Big Issues programme on Sunday, Burnette, who served in the police force for 38 years, was dismissive of the proposed rebranding.
“No bearing, no benefit, no value, it doesn’t bring anything,” Burnette said. “It’s just a play on words. It doesn’t add any benefit to the constabulary at all, period.”
Burnette, who has written two books on policing in Antigua and Barbuda, argued that the organisation instead needs what he described as “radical leadership” and outside expertise capable of strengthening discipline and professionalism.
Pero shared similar concerns, pointing specifically to what she described as shortcomings in the training and professional development of police officers.
She said that after recruits complete their initial training and enter active service, there is no mandatory system of continuous training tied to their advancement within the organisation.
Pero, a former educator who previously contested the St George’s constituency as an independent candidate, said continuous professional development should be linked directly to promotions so officers have clearly defined expectations as they progress through the ranks.
Burnette also raised concerns about the promotion system, claiming there are no formal criteria governing advancement beyond the rank of corporal.
“Up to this day, we are 46 or 47 years into independence, and the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda does not have a criteria for promotion,” he said. “That is a shame and we’re talking about a name change to do what with?”
He argued that the absence of a transparent promotional pathway contributes to low morale and indiscipline among officers and ultimately weakens the organisation’s ability to respond effectively to crime.
Burnette also questioned the effectiveness of the Police Service Commission, saying the body, which is intended to provide a buffer between the Government and the police, largely functions only in relation to promotions.
Pero, meanwhile, said she had previously offered to assist with establishing an independent complaints body to deal with allegations of indiscipline within the police force, without additional cost to the Government, but said the proposal was never taken forward.
“If we can help or fix the discipline, we can then fix the public trust, we can then fix the way the department functions, and then we could see this reduction in crime and violence,” she said.
Both commentators questioned whether there is sufficient political will to undertake the level of reform they believe is necessary.
Pero also urged members of the public to recognise the role they can play in demanding change, arguing that citizens have considerable influence over the direction and pace of reform.
“The power of the people is much stronger than the people in power,” she said.
This story was adapted from original reporting by Kisean Joseph of the Antigua Observer by NewsCo.
Does it really matter what the damn thing is named? Jesus Mary and Joseph.. come on man