T&T: Opposition resists hanging policy

The main opposition People's National Movement says it will not be bullied into supporting plans by the government, for new legislation to ensure the execution of convicted criminals.



Over the weekend, Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar said her coalition People's Partnership administration had prepared a package of crime legislation.



She said some of the laws had already been introduced in the Parliament, adding that her government is committed to the implementation of the death penalty.



Last year, the Government brought the necessary legislation, to the Parliament but the Opposition did not support it.



The Opposition Leader Dr. Keith Rowley said his party maintains that there is a maximum 18 months, to ensure any appeal of a murder conviction and the overhauling of the justice system to ensure that cases are heard quickly.



However, he said since the government has dismissed these recommendations the Opposition will not help to ensure the success of the administration’s new hanging policy.