Patrick Atkinson promises fairness

Queens Counsel Patrick Atkinson was this afternoon sworn-in as Jamaica's New Attorney General.

At the brief ceremony at Kings House this afternoon, Atkinson said it was a privilege to serve in this position.

He told the small gathering of legal minds and members of the Portia Simpson Miller Cabinet that he will serve in his new capacity with humility.

Jamaica’s new attorney general pledged to carry out his duties without political bias.

In his comments after being sworn in Atkinson made it clear that his decisions will not be affected by his declared political status.

Atkinson is the People's National Party's MP for Trealwny North.

Atkinson says in carrying out his job he will give due significance to the constitutional rights of all citizens.

Paraphrasing the late US president John F. Kennedy, the new attorney general said it is the duty of the country when we deal with justice to make certain that the state of law is such that the strong are just and the weak are secured.

Atkinson also responded to those who have expressed concern about his declared political connection.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller is giving Atkinson her charge says he has been appointed the chief protector of the rights of the Jamaican people.

She says in this 50 year of Independence, Atkinson’s appointment requires that he sets the standards by which his successors will be judged.

Simpson Miller says she was confident that Mr Atkinson was up to the task.

editorial@gleanerjm.com

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