49 / 494
48
FINDINGS
3.52.
Contrary to language pervading our Terms of Reference,
there was no
Provisional Warrant
. We accept the evidence of
Ms. Lightbourne that the warrant for Coke’s arrest was not provisional.
3.53.
We are satisfied that the Prime Minister’s announcement
had the effect of giving impetus to the preparations of some residents
in their desire to create a fortress of Tivoli Gardens. The evidence is
unchallenged and undeniable that fortification was accelerated after
the announcement.
3.54.
The announcement caused further anxiety and tension in
Tivoli Gardens. Mr. Golding admitted this.
3.55.
We are also satisfied that the announcement took away the
element of surprise from the planned operations of the security forces
and allowed the supporters of Coke to mobilise their own forces
against the security forces. Mr. Golding himself acknowledged that
“there [was] some validity to the argument that announcing the
signing of the warrant on the Sunday took away the element of
surprise”. We accept that he genuinely felt “a need for the society to
be advised that an issue that had virtually led almost to a state of
paralysis in terms of governance of the country was being resolved”.
However, we think that it was imprudent on his part not to have
alerted the Heads of the security forces of his intended announcement
prior to doing so. They ought not to have learnt of the Attorney-
General’s intention via the Press.
3.56.
Having regard to Mr. Golding’s long service as a Member of
Parliament; his familiarity with the constituency of West Kingston
which he had represented since 2005; his knowledge of the societal