CJ says Judge must not "entertain" private discussion with political party

Chief Justice Ivor Arc hie has stated that "It would be wholly improper for a sitting judge to even entertain any private discussion with any political party or group, either generally or in preparation for a transition to representative politics."

In a statement to the media, Archie added, "It is vital that judicial officers, in reality and in the perception of the public, remain independent of political parties and the cut and thrust of national politics.

"To do otherwise would compromise the independence of the judiciary and the perception of impartiality that must be preserved if the public is to have trust and confidence in the administration of justice."

The Chief Justice made the comments in confirming that Justice Herbert Volney had resigned. Volney quit earlier this week to run as a candidate for the United National Congress (UNC) in the May 26 general election. UNC leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar confirmed that Wednesday at a political meeting in San Juan.

Archie added, "While judges are expected to be independent and may make constructive comments from the bench in an effort to enhance the administration of justice, their remarks must remain within the boundaries of neutrality and decorum.

"It would be very unfortunate indeed if any judge’s remarks could be reasonably construed, not only as a crossing of those boundaries, but, with the benefit of hindsight, as the abuse of a privileged platform for a collateral objective."

Law Association president Martin Daly told the Trinidad Express that he is "absolutely shocked and distressed" over the news about Volney.

This is not the first time a judge has been involved in seeking political office.

Justice Anthony Lucky accepted a nomination from the PNM to contest the position of President. His daughter, Gillian Lucky, was appointed a temporary although she had been an MP up to 2007 and ran unsuccessfully as a COP candidate in the 2007 general election.

And Aeneas Wills, who fought Patrick Manning for the post of political leader of the People's National Movement, was subsequently made a judge.

Read the full text of the CJ's statement