Caribbean Court of Justice Sir Dennis Byron
St. Kitts (WINN): President of the Caribbean Court of Justice Sir Dennis Byron describes the role of the free press in a democracy as “not to be underestimated” and identifies several similarities between the best journalists and the best judges. Sir Dennis, former Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and two –term President of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda , is now leading efforts to enhance the performance of the CCJ which serves as the court of final appeal for member states of CARICOM, and original jurisdiction for disputes arising out of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.
“As we forge a democratic society the role of the press cannot be underestimated…there are several similarities between the best journalists and the best judges- they have to share qualities of fair mindedness, honesty, balance and impartiality,” Sir Dennis told close to 200 guests attending the 10th Anniversary Ball of the privately owned radio station WINN98.9 on St. Kitts. “They have to carry out their duties diligently and without fear and favour. They demand accountability they attack injustice and the abuse of power.”
Sir Dennis said like the judiciary, the press serves the society best when it is completely independent of political control or alliance.
