PM extends Llewellyn's tenure as DPP, dismisses Phillips' objection

 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has said he is not convinced by arguments presented by Opposition Leader Dr. Peter Phillips objecting to an extension of  the tenure of Director of Public Prosecutions Paula Llewellyn.

 

Despite the objection, Mr. Holness said he has recommended that the tenure of the DPP be extended by three years.

 

Speaking at a media briefing Wednesday, Mr. Holness said he is satisfied with Miss Llewellyn's performance. 

 

"The issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, which I found to be a very curious concern that an incoming administration should not be in any way tied to the existing DPP - I wasn't convinced by that argument, which I found to actually undermine the constitution and the authority of the office," he said. 

 

Mr. Holness said it is unfortunate that the matter concerning the DPP's tenure is being debated publicly. 

 

"The convention that has happened, and it is a convention that has served us well, is that these matters are not drawn into public debate. It is unfortunate that this matter has reached into the public domain. It does add various levels of complications to the appointment. It was important to ensure that the office had enough time to prepare for transition and management and I believe that the present DPP has done excellent work," the Prime Minister insisted.  

 

On Tuesday, The Gleaner revealed that on May 21, Dr. Phillips wrote to King's House expressing strenuous objection to the extension.

 

Among other things, Dr. Phillips claimed there were many deficiencies at the DPP's office and Jamaica's alleged reputation for corruption grew during Miss Llewellyn's tenure because she did not do enough corruption-related prosecutions.