ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Sept 9, CMC – Former prime minister Dr. Keith Mitchell, Tuesday called for a “thorough and independent investigation” into the death of Neilon Franklyn, the former opposition legislator, who collapsed and died at hospital late last month.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Neilon Franklyn, a young man of immense promise whom I had the privilege of appointing to the Senate and welcoming into the New National Party. Neilon was not only a colleague but also part of my extended family circle, and his loss is felt profoundly,” Mitchell said in a statement.
He said “the confirmation that his death resulted from the consumption of a lethal substance is both alarming and unacceptable.
“In light of this, I call on the Government of Grenada to immediately commission a thorough and independent investigation conducted by a credible agency outside of our jurisdiction so that the circumstances of this tragedy can be fully uncovered,” Mitchell said.
Franklyn, 25, was appointed an opposition senator by Mitchell, following the June 2022 general election. He died at the general hospital in St George’s on August 24 after collapsing at his home earlier that day. A private pathologist from another jurisdiction reportedly informed the family that his death was due to ingesting a lethal substance which shut down all his organs.
Following his death, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell described Franklyn as “a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and economic development.
“His contributions to national dialogue, particularly on issues affecting young people, were marked by dedication and a deep commitment to fostering youth leadership across Grenada. We are grateful for his dedicated service to our nation. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.
In his statement on Tuesday, the former prime minister said that “the people of Grenada, and Neilon’s grieving family, deserve nothing less than swift and transparent justice.
“Those responsible for this act must be held accountable,” Mitchell added.
The family is reported to be awaiting the toxicology report on the death and the police are yet to confirm that his death is being treated as a homicide.
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