Opposition MPs have mounted a united front against the government’s proposed legislation to create special crime “hot spot” zones. They warned the bill is constitutionally dangerous, poorly consulted and risks entrenching emergency-style powers long after the State of Emergency (SoE) ends, as they made their way into Parliament.

Speaking to reporters on January 16, ahead of the parliamentary debate, Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales said the proposed law raised serious red flags and should never have reached Parliament without broad national consultation.

“One would expect a bill of such constitutional gravity and importance, which can impact thousands of lives, the government would do the responsible thing and engage in appropriate consultations with national community groups.”