FNM’s ‘Kill the Bill’ Protest Draws Fewer Than 50 Supporters

The Free National Movement’s (FNM) “Kill the Bill” demonstration against the proposed Smuggling of Migrants Bill 2025 drew fewer than 50 participants on Monday morning, raising fresh questions about the party’s ability to mobilize its base and attract wider public support.

The party had urged supporters and Bahamians who oppose the bill to join a march from the old City Market building to the House of Assembly.

Despite the call for a large turnout, the crowd remained small as FNM Chairman Dr. Duane Sands and former MP Michael Foulkes led participants toward Parliament.

The FNM has consistently struggled to generate significant public momentum.

The protest follows recent comments from Attorney General Ryan Pinder, who last week defended the proposed legislation, stressing that it does not grant new rights or entitlements to migrants. Pinder also said the government intends to amend the bill to address any areas that may be considered ambiguous.

The Smuggling of Migrants Bill 2025, tabled in the House of Assembly in October, aims to strengthen The Bahamas’ border controls, target human-smuggling operations, and close gaps in the existing legal framework.