Concerns over ‘blanket authority’ in international cooperation bill
Concerns have been raised over the recently passed Criminal Justice International Cooperation Amendment Bill 2025, which critics argue grants “blanket authority” to the Attorney General, potentially undermining civil liberties.
The bill, which passed with amendments in the House of Assembly, will enhance international cooperation in combating financial crime, money laundering, and terrorism financing. However, opposition members voiced strong reservations about the broad powers granted to the Attorney General, warning that the measure could lead to abuse of power and a lack of accountability.
Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton argued that the legislation places too much power in the hands of one individual. “We need to be more careful,” Skelton urged. “While the bill is necessary and people should not be doing this illegal stuff, the innocent should be protected. And that’s what I will advocate for.”
Concerns were also raised about the bill’s provision, which allows the Attorney General to direct investigative measures through designated investigating officers, including conducting searches, obtaining statements, and taking samples. Critics argued that this grants extensive powers without sufficient judicial oversight.
Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn spoke about the potential impact on individual privacy. “We have to find the right balance between compliance and international obligations and not disenfranchising our people,” Penn said.
In response, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley defended the legislation, asserting that the bill is necessary to meet international standards for combating financial crime and ensuring national security. He argued that the BVI must align with global regulations to maintain its status as a reputable financial jurisdiction.
Dr Wheatley also emphasised the importance of the bill in strengthening the BVI’s legal framework for international cooperation, stating that the legislation would enhance efforts to combat financial crimes while ensuring both efficiency and adherence to due process.
Copyright 2025 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.
In my opinion the Attorney General has displayed over the years a callous lack of regard for the rights of those that reside or do business here. Examples of this include: The Police Bill 2023, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Amendment Act. These were drafted through her office, and she is ultimately responsible for the way that these things are drafted. I am somewhat disappointed that the approach that is taken, is that the BVI must sacrifice their constitutional and human rights in order to prove ourselves to international organizations such as FATF, which is likely to fall apart in any event, given Trump’s views on actions in respect of international organizations.
Does it look to you like this AG cares about anything in this country? Show up in the office, and collect your salary, work until retirement get your pension. Thats it.