Steadroy Banjamin

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By Aabigayle McIntosh

It is anticipated that the announcement of a new Chief Magistrate will be made in the coming months.

The position was left vacant since July when Joanne Walsh was suspended amidst multiple disciplinary charges. The Judicial and Legal Services Commission initiated Walsh’s suspension, prompting investigations into the allegations.

In the interim, magistrate Dexter Wason has been acting in the role, maintaining the functionality of the lower courts.

Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin revealed on Tuesday that the position is set to be filled within a month, emphasizing that “serious considerations are being given” to potential candidates.

Regarding Walsh’s retirement, the Chief Establishment Officer holds the responsibility for its finalization. Walsh, who served for 12 years, reportedly submitted her resignation in December after a tribunal found her guilty on all 15 disciplinary charges, including failure to transmit funds to the government treasury and the destruction of magistrates’ notes, vouchers, and government property.

As for the appointment of a new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Sir Steadroy indicated a more extended timeline.

He stated, “They’re still searching for the appropriate person; it will take a while longer for the DPP’s replacement to take place.” The vacancy for the DPP arose in December 2022 following the retirement of Anthony Armstrong amid allegations of professional misconduct.