OECS and Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations want immediate and urgent probe of CCJ email leak and claims made in emails

In a joint statement, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean Bar Association and the Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations, have issued a call for an immediate and thorough probe of the disclosure of the private emails between judges of the Caribbean Court of Justice, and an urgent investigation into the accusations made by the Judges in those leaked private emails.

The CCJ has found itself in the spotlight after leaked emails revealed disquiet among the Court Judges about the management of the Court under its current President, Justice Winston Anderson, with some judges accusing him of judicial interference, panel fixing, and managing the Court in a dictatorial manner.

The two associations on Wednesday evening noted that the disclosure of the private emails is disturbing and unfortunate, and mist ne probed. However, they added that the various accusations as reported must now be urgently investigated and examined as to veracity and accuracy.

The Associations said it is important that the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission facilitates discourse on these accusations and take considered and responsible action in support of the Caribbean Court of Justice, adding that at this juncture it is unclear whether what is being played out in the public arena reflects legitimate matters warranting institutional attention or internal politicking, grandstanding or perhaps misunderstandings.

The joint statement by the associations said this matter underscores the need for important intervention and scrutiny by the RJLSC, which it believes, is well placed and equipped to address the issues.

They noted that their collective support for the CCJ as an important institution remains unshaken and is based on a considered examination of the CCJ, its body of important work, the fact that it is working hard in the interest of dispensing justice in a fair and unbiased manner for all those seeking justice before the CCJ.

The OECS Bar Association and the Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations also believe that there are internal matters requiring resolution within the CCJ, and they urge the Judges of the CCJ, with the assistance of the Regional Judicial Commission and other parties (including distinguished past Judges of the CCJ) to address them frankly and openly amongst themselves.

The two associations have pledge their fullest support to the CCJ and the RJLSC, noting that their leadership stands ready to assist in any way possible, including the facilitation of mediation in a dignified way with the overarching objective of preserving the integrity and independence of the CCJ as well as the independence of the judiciary comprising the CCJ.

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