The Jamaican judiciary has accepted that systemic challenges within the court system could have contributed to the tragic death of Noel Chambers, who died in prison five months ago after 40 years without a trial.
“It is clear that many institutions, including the courts, failed in their duty to safeguard the right of Mr Chambers to life, liberty, and a fair trial within a reasonable time before a properly constituted and impartial court,” read the statement by the judiciary.
“The failure to have him before the courts at regular intervals resulted in him being overlooked which ended in his death,” the judiciary underscored.
Section 25D of the Criminal Justice (Administration) Act makes provision for a monthly report to be tabled with the court on persons adjudged not fit to plead and are remanded.
“This case highlights the need for an adequate records and information management system within the courts,” the judges said.
