Bahamas MP Throws Ceremonial Mace Out of Parliament Window During Corruption Debate

The dramatic act followed allegations of police corruption tied to drug trafficking and a contentious parliamentary session.

Opposition MP Shanendon Cartwright threw the ceremonial mace, symbolizing parliamentary authority, out of a window after being denied the opportunity to speak during a debate on police corruption.
The incident occurred during a heated session addressing a U.S. indictment accusing high-ranking Bahamian police officials of facilitating drug trafficking in exchange for bribes.
Prime Minister Philip Davis condemned the act as a 'planned and coordinated assault' and announced reforms, including independent oversight of the police force, to address systemic corruption.
Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander resigned following the indictment, and Assistant Commissioner Shanta Emily Knowles has been recommended as his replacement to lead the force through reforms.
The event, reminiscent of the 1965 'Black Tuesday' protest in Bahamian history, has sparked widespread public and social media reactions, with opposition leaders framing the act as a stand against government misconduct.