The government of the Bahamas is under fire from a number of community organizations, including Human Rights activists on over the resettlement of hundreds of residents who were uprooted from so-called Shantytowns.
The main question being asked is: where are these people going to live?
Although some members of the clergy support the move by the government, the process is being called “painful” for the residents.
However, Bahamas Christian Council First Vice President, Archdeacon James Palacious has praised the government on the widespread consultation done on the decision to eradicate Shantytowns.
Local human rights groups have not been easy on the government when it came to demolishing shantytowns throughout the country.
They argue that it is unconstitutional to move someone out of their homes and that many of the residents cannot find accommodations elsewhere.
However, Archdeacon Palacious congratulated the government on its widespread consultation on the issue, adding that the exercise is being done as humanely as possible.
He said, “you cannot have two sets of laws operating where people can build indiscriminately and in an unsanitary manner, in violation to set building codes. In this case it’s like no law and so we have no problem with that.”
Reverend Palacious says that this is a very painful process for himself and for residents.
He said, “I know the government is saying it has an inventory of some 200 units where the displaced people can go and rent. Well, that’s only a part of the issue.
“The reality is where you will get first and last month’s rent from and in addition to that, their salaries very often are basic minimum wage type salaries. Are they able now to pay for apartments that are for rent for 5 or $600 a month?” he asked.
The government has imposed an August 10th eviction deadline for all shantytown residents except those in Abaco, who have been given until next year.
