Transparency is not a big ask for the Grant family

The tragic case of 29-year-old Kemo Grant, who died in the custody of The Barbados Police Service (TBPS), remains a dark stain on the reputation of the law enforcement agency and on Barbados’ standing as a place of justice and good governance. Until the contents of his autopsy are released, questions will linger, casting a shadow over the principles this nation holds dear.

Barbados has long been recognised for its remarkable level of development as a small nation, earning praise from none other than a former Secretary General of the United Nations, who famously remarked that the island “punches above its weight.” Of course, Barbadians did not need the late Kofi Annan’s validation to affirm what they have always known — this nation has consistently risen beyond its size and resources to carve out an admirable global reputation. Proud, diligent, and industrious, the people of Barbados have played an unwavering role in shaping the country through its pre- and post-independence eras. Despite limited natural resources, the nation has defied expectations, creating a society that is widely regarded as one of the most desirable places to live and work.

Yet, perfection remains elusive. Barbados, like any nation, faces significant challenges — individual and national needs that demand urgent attention. At times, there is a misalignment of resources, with inadequate investment in critical areas while disproportionate funds are directed towards less pressing priorities. A thoughtful, strategic approach to governance is crucial to ensuring the island maintains its proud legacy while addressing the inequalities that hinder progress.

The rising tide of serious crime — including murder and gun-related offences — has heightened public fear and concern over personal safety and property security. More critically, policymakers and law enforcement officials continue to face mounting pressure to devise and implement an effective strategy to combat this growing issue.

With an economy heavily dependent on tourism, Barbados cannot afford to let criminal activity jeopardise the industry that is vital to its economic survival. A decline in visitor confidence due to safety concerns could have devastating consequences for our economic future, and so taking swift and decisive action is imperative. At the individual level, citizens simply want to feel secure in their homes and move freely — whether for work, leisure, or social engagements — without the looming threat of violence. However, in the pursuit of a safer Barbados, it remains essential that law enforcement operates within the boundaries of the law, ensuring justice is upheld for all, no matter their social standing. Regarding the tragic death of Kemo Grant while in police custody, we make no prejudgment about what led to his demise. However, both the public and Grant’s family deserve transparency and answers.

More than a year has passed since his body was discovered in a holding cell, and despite assurances from the Commissioner of Police last November that the autopsy had been completed, the family and their legal representatives have yet to receive access to this crucial information.

There is no justifiable reason that we can think of for such a delay; all we can do is demand accountability and fairness for this man’s family. The public does not wish to see the dedicated members of the Barbados Police Service unfairly criticised or condemned — they simply seek confidence in the institutions designed to uphold law and order.

During a press conference this week, one of the Grant family’s attorneys expressed deep concern, stating, “I am afraid today that we’re in an environment where there’s a distrust amongst police officers and the public. There are several persons who have died in police custody, and to this day, if you ask what happened, we cannot get an answer.”

They further emphasised, “The problem is, Kemo Grant is not an accused — he’s a victim. He’s someone who died in a cell.”

This is certainly not the reputation that Barbados’ law enforcement, judicial system, or the nation as a whole would want to bear. It is time the Grant family receives the answers they have been seeking.