(Jamaica Gleaner) The Media Association Jamaica (MAJ) Limited has joined the Press Association of Jamaica in calling for restoration of media attendance at the court case involving murder accused Jolyan Silvera.
The MAJ also expressed “bewilderment that such discretion would have been applied in this already very high profile case.”
“It is very important that the public is afforded high transparency on this very public matter with implications on public sentiment towards the judiciary and governance of the country,” it said.
The MAJ argued that a closed hearing will lead to speculation on the part of the public which may do greater harm than whatever concern the judge has sought to mitigate.
“The judiciary must always be mindful of its own often repeated adage: justice must not only be done, but it must also appear to be done.
“We call on the judiciary to reconsider or provide clear reasons for continuing to uphold this divergence from normal practice. This very unfortunate decision has grave press freedom implications for the country especially given the case’s high profile and connection to the country’s governance,” it continued.
Silvera, a former member of parliament, is charged with the murder of his wife, Melissa.
On Thursday, the presiding judge, Justice Vinette Graham-Allen, gathered reporters and awaiting family members and told them that no permission would be granted to cover the high-profile matter at this time, citing judicial discretion.
