Sherfield Bowen, Member of Parliament for St. Philip South and a prominent attorney, has called on key institutions to promptly investigate the alleged multimillion-dollar government vehicle scandal. Speaking at the United Progressive Party’s “Vehicle Gate” town hall on October 21, Bowen emphasized that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the police, and the Integrity Commission each possess the authority and responsibility to act without delay. He asserted that no legal or constitutional barriers prevent these bodies from launching inquiries into what has been labeled one of the nation’s most significant corruption allegations.
Bowen highlighted the statutory powers of these institutions, stressing their independence from political influence. “The police can act, the DPP can act, and the Integrity Commission can act,” he declared. He argued that the evidence already available publicly is sufficient to warrant immediate action. “So long as [the DPP] has enough information that would guide him to the need to continue and to mount the investigation, he should begin,” Bowen stated. “At this very moment… there is enough information in the public domain that will cause him to get on his horse and get people, hire forensic accountants, whatever he needs to do.”
Bowen further noted that the police are legally obligated to investigate suspected offenses, while the Integrity Commission has the jurisdiction to probe matters involving public officials and potential corruption. He warned that inaction by any of these bodies would raise serious concerns about accountability and institutional integrity.
The town hall forum, which featured contributions from former senior civil servants and retired law enforcement officers, focused on systemic weaknesses in government oversight and financial management. Attendees called for full transparency and urged independent agencies to act swiftly to restore public trust.