**Sean McWeeney Advocates for Independent Electoral Body, Shielded from Political Influence**

Nassau, Bahamas – A sweeping overhaul of the Bahamian electoral system is being proposed, spearheaded by Sean McWeeney, KC, who recently chaired a significant inquiry into the matter. McWeeney is calling for the complete removal of the Parliamentary Commissioner and the entire electoral apparatus, including the crucial Boundaries Commission, from any form of ministerial direction.

In a bold statement, McWeeney argues that the current system is too susceptible to political influence, potentially compromising the fairness and integrity of elections. He proposes the establishment of a new, independent, and constitutionally protected Electoral and Boundaries Commission. This new body, he asserts, would be insulated from the day-to-day political pressures inherent in the current structure.

The impetus for this radical reform stems from concerns about the perceived lack of impartiality within the existing electoral framework. McWeeney's proposition seeks to ensure that the drawing of electoral boundaries, the registration of voters, and the overall management of elections are conducted with complete transparency and without even the appearance of bias.

The proposed Electoral and Boundaries Commission would operate under a constitutional mandate, guaranteeing its independence and preventing any undue interference from the government of the day. This constitutional protection, McWeeney emphasizes, is crucial to safeguard the democratic process and maintain public trust in the electoral system.

The implications of such a change are significant. An independent commission would be empowered to make decisions based solely on objective criteria, such as population density and geographical considerations, when defining electoral boundaries. This would minimize the potential for gerrymandering, a practice where boundaries are manipulated to favor a particular political party or candidate.

Furthermore, an independent commission could implement reforms aimed at improving voter registration processes, ensuring wider accessibility and reducing the risk of errors or irregularities. It could also play a vital role in educating the public about their electoral rights and responsibilities.

McWeeney’s call for reform is likely to spark considerable debate within the political arena and among the public. Questions surrounding the composition of the new commission, its powers, and its relationship with the existing government will undoubtedly be at the forefront of discussions. However, the underlying principle – the need for an independent and impartial electoral system – is gaining traction as a fundamental requirement for a healthy and vibrant democracy. The coming weeks and months will prove crucial as stakeholders grapple with the details of this ambitious proposal and its potential impact on the future of Bahamian elections