| CO-CONVENOR of the Citizens' Action for Principle and Integrity, Dennis Meadows, has welcomed the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Carl Williams, as the new commissioner of police.
He says, however, that he hopes the new commissioner will bring to the job an undeviating resolve to ensure that those whom he leads will respect the human rights of Jamaicans, particularly poor citizens.
"We expect that he will demonstrate a zero tolerance approach to the gross unprofessionalism and corruption which now pervades the force," Meadows stressed.
He said DCP Williams, who will assume his new role on September 15, must also seek to win back the people's confidence in the men and women who are sworn to serve, protect and reassure.
"It's our observation that there's a presence of an absence of respect among ranks; constables have no respect for corporals, corporals no respect for sergeants, and so on. It appears that everybody has a secret for each other, which renders everyone equal. Respect and professionalism among the management of the force must be urgently restored," Meadows stated.
He also urged the newly appointed commissioner to ensure that the assets of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), including motor vehicles and equipment at police stations be handled with care, in an effort to prevent unnecessary spending by the government.
Meadows told the Jamaica Observer that DCP Williams is being given an opportunity to make his mark and to leave a legacy of reform which will restore trust and confidence in the JCF.
"While his (DCP Williams) job will not be easy, we believe
his predecessor (Owen Ellington) has started the journey which he must now conclude boldly and fearlessly, as he did against the drug trade as head of the narcotics division. I also hope that he comes with a transformational agenda which will positively impact the JCF," said Meadows.
— Mark Cummings |