National

How Independent is the Judiciary?

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – A Grand Bahama priest lashing out, Friday, questioning if the judiciary is free from political interference.

Published

2 years ago

January 13, 2023

Berthony McDermott

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – A Grand Bahama priest lashing out, Friday, questioning if the judiciary is free from political interference.

During his charge at the official opening of the legal year in Grand Bahama, Rector of Christ the Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King Canon Norman Lightbourne levying a scathing review of the judiciary, questioning if it operates independently.

He also asked the room of lawyers, and judges if they feel they are operating in a strait jacket.

The judiciary is one of three arms of government that is expected to operate independently of the other two arms.

During his address which garnered applause at times, Lightbourne stressed the need for the judiciary to be strong, independent, and courageous.

In recent years, there were three trials that were termed political, two of which ended in acquittals.

The Progressive Liberal Party and political pundits claimed the trials were politically motivated. Lightbourne suggested politicians oftentimes step outside their boundaries.

But the Anglican priest reasons that no politician is above the law and says as we celebrate 50 years of independence, these are questions that must be answered.

He doubled down saying in 2023, the need for an independent judiciary is needed and called for better facilities.