Place checks, balances for independence

I know that despite an office being independent from political interference or self-serving interest of any sect, must have checks and balances in place to ensure that real independence is maintained. According to how the law and processes work, the Police investigate and then give their findings to the DPP who will consider whether charges can be laid so then they may arrest.

When people were arrested under the Anti-Gang Legislation, the law is very clear in making provisions for people suspected to be incarcerated for 120 days without bail. This would allow law enforcement officials to do their investigative work and accumulating of evidence.

They were freed with amazing speed and the question remains why the haste when provisions were made under the law to detain them and the same haste was not applied and exercised with other matters before the DPP more than a year now? As a taxpayer and legitimate citizen of this country I believe transparency is important and status reports should be given.

We may be in need of Constitutional reform for some kind of panel to supervise and monitor the day-to-day work of Independent Office holders like the DPP. It cannot only be the “Court of Public Opinion” who evaluates someone with such autonomy and powers.

Why not create a Council of Prosecutors similar to some countries such as Serbia and Portugal, so that we do not have to depend on the decision of one person. Remember the Honourable Justice Carla Browne-Antoine was twice vetoed for the job of DPP by former prime minister.

Quincy Hyatali
Goodwood Park