Gonzales Urges President To Seek Legal Advice Before Signing Bill

PNM chairman and Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales is calling on President Christine Kangaloo to exercise caution before assenting to the Special Operations Bill, 2026, urging her to obtain independent legal advice on the constitutional questions surrounding the legislation. In a statement titled “A Call for Constitutional Scrutiny and Presidential Prudence,” Gonzales said the circumstances surrounding the Bill’s passage demand careful constitutional examination. He argued that before the legislation becomes law, questions raised about its passage and its implications for citizens’ constitutional rights should receive authoritative legal consideration. “Given the controversy surrounding this legislation, Her Excellency the President should ensure that every constitutional requirement has been properly satisfied and obtain appropriate independent legal advice before determining whether to assent to this Bill,” Gonzales said. His latest statement comes amid continued political disagreement over the Special Operations Bill. Gonzales has publicly maintained the PNM’s opposition to the legislation, describing it as problematic and arguing that the Government should instead focus on the root causes of crime and strengthening the criminal justice system. Gonzales said his latest appeal should not be viewed simply as a dispute between Government and Opposition. He framed the matter as one concerning the Constitution, the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights. “The Constitution must prevail,” Gonzales said.