JFJ congratulates Claudette Thompson on DPP appointment, calls for annual reports

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), a prominent advocacy group, has extended its congratulations to Claudette Thompson on her recent appointment as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). In a statement released on Friday, JFJ emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability within the justice system, urging Thompson’s office to publish comprehensive annual reports. These reports, JFJ suggested, should include detailed metrics such as the number of cases prosecuted, types of offenses, conviction rates, case processing times, and case dispositions. Additionally, the group recommended the inclusion of anonymized demographic data of defendants and victims, high-profile case prosecutions, resource allocation, victim and witness support data, appeals outcomes, alternative dispute resolution usage, and public engagement activities. JFJ believes that such measures would significantly enhance public trust in the justice system. The organization also praised Thompson’s early commitment to fostering open dialogue and collaboration with stakeholders while maintaining the independence of her office during her tenure as acting DPP. JFJ encouraged her to continue and expand public education initiatives and strategic media engagement to ensure ongoing transparency. While acknowledging an increase in prosecutions related to security force matters in recent years, JFJ stressed the need for further progress, particularly in cases involving state actors, to demonstrate a steadfast commitment to the rule of law. The group concluded by wishing Thompson success in her new role.