The Alliance For Change (AFC) has criticised the manner in which the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) announced the appointment of Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman as Chief Magistrate, describing the process as “disrespectful,” “unprofessional” and damaging to public confidence in the judiciary.
In a statement yesterday, the party said the JSC’s announcement, made on its Facebook page, also raises questions about the commission’s decision-making process.
According to the JSC, Magistrate Latchman was appointed Chief Magistrate on January 7, 2025.
The AFC questioned why the appointment was not made public at that time.
“The Guyanese public rightfully ask, why was this not announced since that time?” the party said.
It also noted that Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty had been performing the duties of Chief Magistrate and questioned why there was an acting Chief Magistrate if a substantive appointment had already been made.
“The Guyanese public is now rightfully and rationally asking why there was an acting Chief Magistrate when the decision and appointment was made of the next Chief Magistrate,” the statement said.
The AFC stressed that its concerns were not directed at Magistrate Latchman’s suitability for the post.
“The Alliance For Change does not question the competence of Magistrate Judy Latchman to serve as Chief Magistrate. Our question, like many citizens, is on the manner of the announcement and the delay in making it public, if indeed the appointment was made since the start of 2025,” it said.
The party argued that the manner in which the JSC handled the announcement failed to accord either Magistrate Latchman or Magistrate McGusty the respect due to their offices.
“Both Magistrates Latchman and McGusty deserve to be treated with the highest respect and decorum to retain the integrity of their person and office,” it said.
The AFC also referred to the controversy surrounding the appointments of the acting Chancellor of the Judiciary and acting Chief Justice, arguing that the episode should have served as a lesson on the importance of treating judicial officers professionally.
“Not so long ago shenanigans around the appointment of Chancellor and Chief Justice may have contributed to Guyana losing one of her brightest women judges. This should have been a lesson that persons deserve respect and professional treatment. We can only hope that our country does not lose another due to the callousness of some,” the statement added. The party was referring to the departure of the former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards who has since taken up a judicial position in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
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