New DPP Clement Joseph Pledges Independence from Government Influence
Newly appointed Director of Public Prosecutions Clement Joseph has firmly asserted his commitment to maintaining the independence of his office, declaring “I’ve been guaranteed that I will not be tried to be used as a political stooge” in his first interview since accepting the position.
The veteran prosecutor, who will assume office next Monday, May 19, emphasized to Q95 FM’s Matt Peltier Jr. that his constitutional role requires him to operate without political influence.
“[I will be a] DPP for the law,” Joseph stated, explaining his approach to the position. “If the government comes with something that is lawful, then fine. If the government comes with something that is unlawful, then it is my duty constitutionally to advise the government as to the legality of any criminal action that they think should be done.”
Joseph, who hails from Marigot, Dominica, brings an impressive legal background to the role, including multiple advanced degrees and diverse prosecutorial experience.
His appointment concludes an extensive search process following former DPP Anthony Armstrong’s departure amid allegations of professional misconduct in Jamaica.
“Ever since I became a lawyer back in 2010, I have worked in prosecution, Dominica, Turks and Caicos Islands, and even while at Barbuda, it was concentrated on financial crimes,” Joseph explained, highlighting his extensive experience before being elevated to the acting DPP position in Turks and Caicos in 2017.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/05/14/new-dpp-clement-joseph-pledges-independence-from-government-influence. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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