Dear Editor,

The Democratic National Alliance is saddened by the gruesome attack in which the party's Nassau Village chairperson, Wendy McIntosh, was shot multiple times.

It is deeply disturbing that at a time when many of us in the country are focused on rebuilding and restoration efforts, the criminal element in this country has chosen to exploit the vulnerabilities of a country in transition. Sadly, this is a clear indicator of how far we have strayed away from the core Christian values of brotherly love that once guided us.

It also proves that now more than ever, the government of The Bahamas must take drastic steps in addressing crime and the fear of crime in this country. Over the past few years we have watched an emboldened criminal element in The Bahamas attack politicians, pastors, teachers and students alike.

We need the creation and execution of a crime plan that balances punitive and rehabilitative elements; a plan which will ensure, across the board, enforcement of all our country's laws for all citizens; a plan which fulfills the government's fundamental responsibility to protect its people and ensure their safety.

Without such an intervention, we will continue to live in paradise, but be paralyzed by fear.

While we urge our leaders to take seriously the impact of crime and criminality on the quality of Bahamian lives, our prayers and thoughts are with Wendy McIntosh, her family and friends.

We pray for Wendy's recovery and for our strength and peace of mind during this difficult time.

- Branville McCartney, DNA leader

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