The Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) has joined the debate surrounding the extradition of West Kingston strongman Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke.

The PSOJ wants the government to allow the courts to decide on extradition requests.

The debate intensified last week after the US released its Narcotics Control Strategy Report.

In a statement this afternoon, the PSOJ said while it does not wish to comment on the veracity of the contentions made in the report, or the prime minister’s basis for the handling of the matter, it believes the proper forum for handling such matters is in the courts.

The US report slammed the Government for its delay in responding to the request which was sent in August last year.

In a statement to parliament last week, Prime Minister Bruce Golding defended the government’s decision, saying it had to protect the constitutional rights of its citizens.

The PSOJ says it views with grave concern the content of the US Narcotics Report and the implications it could have for the country.

According to the private sector body, there are sufficient safeguards available in Jamaican law and in the country’s independent judiciary to protect the constitutional rights of all Jamaicans.

It also wants the government to expeditiously take the steps necessary to allow Jamaican courts to assess and determine the merits of any outstanding extradition requests by the United States.

The PSOJ also believes the government should continue to cooperate with the international community by honouring the treaties to which the country is a signatory.