Law Assoc: CJ’s silence on allegations ‘reckless’

Chief Justice Ivor Archie’s continued silence on the allegations relating to his conduct as the country’s third highest office holder is being viewed as “reckless” by the Law Association. For the second time in as many months, the association has again called on the Chief Justice to address allegations.

In a strongly worded statement yesterday, the association said it had read with “increasing alarm” the allegations of improper conduct against Archie directly and “by implication” the head of the Judiciary.

“Of particular concern is the allegation that he has intervened to obtain preferential treatment in the distribution of public housing to his acquaintances,” the statement said. The association also said it was “even more troubled” by the failure of the Chief Justice to respond “with alacrity” to the allegations which it described as “damaging.”

“The Chief Justice’s steadfast refusal to refute these and other accusations levelled against him is unacceptable and incomprehensible,” the association added.

It further said its council was of the view that Archie’s “continued failure” to challenge the allegations had the potential to “irreparably bring the Office of Chief Justice into disrepute, and by extension tarnish the entire Judiciary.”

“His continued silence is nothing short of reckless,” the statement said.

According to the statement, the association has started to do its own investigations to ascertain and substantiate the facts behind the allegations. This is being done to determine what, if any, further action might be appropriate.