Leader of the Free National Movement (FNM) Dr. Hubert Minnis says the murder rate under the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) leadership continues to increase and it is either ill equipped or not serious about launching a plan to root out crime.

He noted that it was four years ago the PLP promised to eradicate crime, but sadly Sunday past he said, serves as one more example that crime is only getting worse under the current government.

“We are not even halfway through 2016 and there have already been over 50 murders in The Bahamas this year alone. Our people are literally dying in the streets, this Government has had four years to address the safety and security of our communities and they have failed at every turn,” he said.

“The crime rate impacts ever corner of our society – from families fearful in their homes, to tourists choosing other places to spend their vacation dollars. Where is the urgency on fixing the crime epidemic? Action is required today and the people want to know what this government is prepared to do?”

Dr. Minnis says the PLP government needs to understand that a problem cannot be fixed if one chooses to ignore it.

He further noted that Prime Minister Perry Christie’s recent budget communication proved this government is either ill equipped or not serious about launching a plan to root out crime.

“Bahamians deserve a government that will stand up for them and take action, the time for broken promises and empty rhetoric from the PLP is over. And soon their failed tenure running the Government will be over as well,” Dr. Minnis said.

FNM Chairman Sidney Collie also released his statement on the crime issue.

“Violent crime affects all of us, sexual assaults impact every community – it is time for real action and leadership on this important issue. The people deserve leaders that put the safety and protection of our communities above their efforts to enrich themselves,” he said.

“True rights for women start with safe, protected neighbors to live their lives free of threats of violence. The PLP is full of empty rhetoric and broken promises and will do anything to not talk about the increasing crime rates in this country. The FNM though will stand up to protect all Bahamians; we won’t hide behind false government statistics telling everyone everything is all right. Every victim needs a voice and the FNM will be that for them.”

The murder rate reached 128 in 2014.