Justice Cummings tipped for Chief Justice post

Last Updated on Wednesday, 9 December 2015, 16:18 by GxMedia

Justice Yonnette Cummings has been identified by President David Granger to perform the duties of Chief Justice.

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo says her name was presented to him when he turned up for consultations with Granger on the matter in accordance with the Constitution.

“I do not know if Justice Cummjngs is the most senior judge in the system and I don’t know if the government sought a report from the Commission about her performance,” said Jagdeo.

While Jagdeo said he did not have a nominee, hrcsaid he was awaiting some information before stating categorically whether he supports Cummings.

Jagdeo said at the end of the day, President Granger’s nominee would prevail because that is his choice.

The Opposition Leader said his discusions with the President focused on seniority and performance.

Jagdeo said he did not have a nominee but told the President that the Chief Justice should be the most senior judge and an objective report should be done by the Judicial Services Commission.

He said the Commission should consider the number of cases heard, written decisions, outstanding work and any disciplinary action.

Last week the President invited Jagdeo to meaningful consultations about who should be performing the functions rather than the appointment of Chief Justice.

The Chief Justice position is not vacant because acting Chancellor Carl Singh is the substantive Chief Justice. Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang is about to proceed on retirement leave.

The Opposition Leader said no formal report had been requested about Mr. Chang before he was appointed several years ago. Jagdeo used the opportunity to praise Chang.

“Whatever you say about Mr. Chang he has written tons of decisions,” said Jagdeo.