Sun | Jul 12, 2026

Paula Llewellyn should be given another extension

Published:Friday | July 21, 2023 | 12:05 AM

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am a firm believer in succession planning and giving others a chance, but I am making an exception and calling for another extension of Paula Llewellyn’s tenure as Jamaica’s director of public prosecutions (DPP).

It’s a matter of public record that the initial extension given to the DPP will end in September this year.

It is rare that important public offices are blessed with courageous leadership which has the ability to execute, has charisma, and consistently displays virtues of honesty, confidence, humility and preparedness to take accountability, whether in victory or otherwise. DPP Llewellyn has all the above traits and is a leader par excellence.

The truth is, before DPP Llewellyn’s tenure, the job of a prosecutor was one which was carried out quietly within the confines of a courtroom, with limited attention paid to public education and awareness of this very important aspect of the good functioning of our country.

The DPP is not only a fearless prosecutor and leader, she’s a communicator of the highest calibre. It’d be a shame if the Office of the DPP lost her leadership at this crucial phase in the evolution of our justice system. I hope the powers that be see it fit to lend our country a few more years of the skills that this distinguished Jamaican, Paula Llewellyn, bring to the table. May God bless her.

TIMOTHY CARNEGIE