On behalf of the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, it is with a profound sense of sadness that I extend condolences to the family of the late Francis Wilson, who served at the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs for many years.

Mr. Wilson was from Sierra Leone, but later became a British citizen. He was known throughout the region as a Legal Drafting Consultant.

As such, he was originally appointed in the Office of the Attorney General in December 2003 as a Chief Counsel responsible for Legislative Drafting to fill the skills gap that existed at that time and to assist in building the capacity of the Legislative Drafting Section to a sustainable basis. He held that position until May 2009 during which time he trained several Attorneys in legislative drafting and gave sage advice to the Government on treaties, conventions and protocols.

Mr. Wilson was again recruited to the Office of the Attorney General and served a second stint from January 2016 to January 2020. He was a competent Attorney and an engaging, polished gentleman. Most notably, he did most of the legal research and drafting for the seatbelt laws and for much of the Road Traffic and maritime legislation adopted by both the former Government and this current administration.

The Bahamas mourns the loss of a scholar and a true Commonwealth professional, who loved his craft.