Minister Mitchell: “Our Immigration System is Not Broken”

Fred Mitchell Reaffirms The Bahamas’ Commitment to Lawful Migration, Strong Regional Partnerships, and Fulfilling International Obligations.

9th December 2025, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas. In a parliamentary contribution delivered in the House of Assembly on Monday, 8th December, on Cuba–CARICOM Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Hon Frederick A. Mitchell, underscored The Bahamas’ longstanding commitment to principled diplomacy, regional cooperation, and the rule of law in matters relating to immigration and citizenship.

Minister the Hon. Frederick A. Mitchell speaking at Diplomatic Week Opening Ceremony (Marvin Thompson/OPM Communications)

The Minister noted that this year marks the 54th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the first four CARICOM states: Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, and Barbados. The Bahamas formalized its own diplomatic relations with Cuba in 1974, now spanning 51 years.

“The Cuban people have been good friends to our region, and we extend best wishes to them on this significant anniversary,” the Minister said.

Highlighting The Bahamas’ geographical and diplomatic reality, sharing proximity with the United States, Cuba, and the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Minister emphasized the nation’s responsibility to maintain strong, balanced relationships with all partners.

“Successive Bahamian governments have adhered to the principle of being friends of all and enemies of none. Our interests with regional and international partners are aligned in many ways, but not identical. Managing these relationships requires balance, maturity, and adherence to international obligations,” the Minister stated.

Addressing recent public commentary, the Minister firmly rejected claims that The Bahamas’ immigration system is “broken.”

“I wish to assure the public that our immigration system is not broken. It functions effectively and is administered professionally by dedicated officers who enforce the laws of The Bahamas,” he said.

The Minister stressed that the bill under debate, focused on migrant smuggling, is a straightforward domestication of an international treaty obligation.

“There is nothing extraordinary about this legislation. The Bahamas has signed a treaty addressing migrant smuggling, and we are now ensuring those provisions are enforceable under Bahamian law. This bill sends a clear signal to our neighbours and international partners: The Bahamas does not condone unlawful entry into any country, nor do we permit our territory to be used for such activities.”

He added that recent public narratives suggesting the bill is linked to mass citizenship grants or changes in immigration rights are “entirely false.”

Responding to misinformation circulating on social media, the Minister reaffirmed that citizenship in The Bahamas is governed strictly by the Constitution and relevant legislation.

“Claims that the government plans to grant hundreds of thousands of citizenships are irresponsible and impossible. Citizenship applications are processed carefully, lawfully, and according to long-standing legal provisions, subject to public notice and an opportunity for objections,” the Minister noted.

He referenced the Chief Justice’s comments, which reaffirmed that individuals born in The Bahamas to non-Bahamian parents who apply for citizenship at age 18 are entitled to consideration under the law, with applications approved except in disqualifying circumstances.

The Minister warned that inflammatory statements made in public forums could jeopardize the longstanding visa-free travel privileges enjoyed by Bahamians visiting the United States.

“When unfounded accusations about passports, corruption, or immigration malfeasance are broadcast publicly, it puts all Bahamians at risk. Our relationship with the United States is built on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect. Reckless commentary undermines this and threatens the ability of Bahamians to move freely,” he said.

The Minister also welcomed the arrival of a new U.S. Ambassador, the first in 14 years, and expressed optimism for continued strong bilateral ties.

“This legislation will not solve all issues overnight, but it clearly signals The Bahamas’ seriousness in addressing human smuggling and unlawful migration. As a small nation surrounded by much larger neighbours, we must act responsibly to protect our people, our borders, and our international relationships,” the Minister said.

In concluding his remarks, the Minister highlighted a recent visit to George Town, Exuma, where he attended the community’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

“There is a strong sense of community and goodwill in George Town. I thank the residents, clergy, community leaders, and young people for their warm welcome and their efforts to strengthen the social fabric of our nation.”