Greene Welcomes CMJA Response Following Exchange Over Judiciary

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed what it describes as a constructive response from the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA), following recent exchanges over concerns surrounding the country’s judiciary.

The response follows a letter sent to the Association by Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration Minister E.P. Chet Greene on August 17.

In its reply the following day, the CMJA said it had taken note of the points raised by Greene and agreed to publish his letter on its website alongside the Association’s earlier statement concerning the Judiciary of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Government said the decision would allow members of the Association and the wider Commonwealth public to consider both sides of the exchange and what it described as the complete official record.

That record includes Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s clarification that no executive action will be taken against any judicial officer and that matters relating to judicial tenure, assignment or conduct will be dealt with in accordance with the Constitution and the law.

The CMJA has also indicated that it is prepared to assist judicial officers in the Eastern Caribbean if requested by the Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court or by any review committee established to examine the concerns raised by Browne.

Greene welcomed the offer, describing it as a positive basis for continued engagement between the parties.

“The Government appreciates the Association’s constructive response and its willingness to assist through the proper judicial and institutional channels,” Greene said.

“We share a commitment to judicial independence, the rule of law, public safety and the effective administration of justice.”

The Government said it remains prepared to support cooperation involving the CMJA, the Chief Justice, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and any independent review committee that may be established.

The latest exchange comes amid public discussion over sentencing, public safety and judicial independence in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Government said it believes those issues can be addressed through dialogue and established constitutional processes while maintaining respect for the independence of the judiciary.