Family representative and cousin of Bowe, Rodney Moncur, told reporters that a letter sent to the Minister of National Security last week, resulted in two brothers of the inmate being allowed to visit him on Sunday.
With regard to requests for him to see legal counsel or sign a letter authorising attorney Frederick Smith to act on his behalf, Mr Moncur said that has not happened.
Speaking outside of court after the inquest adjourned, Mr Moncur said, “To date, we have not heard formally from the Ministry of National Security with a view to either one, allowing an attorney to visit him or two, having him sign the attached letter which would confirm the appointment of attorney Fredrick Smith as his counsel.”
In addition, Mr Moncur said he advised Mr Bowe not to give evidence. “On Thursday (past), he and Barry Parcoi, I’m advised by his (Bowe’s) brothers, are both (the inmates) side by side in death row. The electrical wire to the fan was cut, so they are no longer able to get the little breeze.” He said Bowe also complained about not being given fresh water. “He gets one cup of water a day and he believes that the water is contaminated” he said. Moreover, he stated that the family is concerned by Bowe’s claims that he is not allowed regular showers and that he sleeps on the floor, with no bed sheets or blankets. “He has been fed irregularly. He has been requesting medical attention and they have refused to make that available to him,” Mr Moncur stated.
As a result of those claims, the family spokesman said that letters are being written to the International Red Cross and Amnesty International.
He suggested that Her Majesty’s Prison has become a crime scene and he called for police officers to be dispatched to investigate those complaints of abuse lodged by prison inmates thus far.
One complaint dealt with a threat by an officer to “firebomb Forrestor Bowe”, Mr Moncur alleged, refusing to disclose the name of the officer.
“I am appealing to the Government. I am appealing to the Christian community that these men are treated in a humane manner until such time as they are either brought before a court of law and convicted of an offence,” he said.
Mr Moncur was of the view that the Minister of National Security and the Attorney General should ensure that the rule of law be maintained.
Bowe may appear before the Coroner by the end of the week.
By: JIMENITA SWAIN, The Nassau Guardian
