Dear Editor,

The people of Jamaica have been advised by a television news report that there is to be a planned protest at the formal installation of the Custos of Manchester. This threat, boisterously voiced by people who have nothing to do with the appointment of custodes, is obviously inspired by dissenting justices of the peace who object to the governor general’s selection.

The society is already suffering from the breakdown in public behaviour. It is therefore cause for alarm that people sworn to uphold law and order are publicly and persistently conducting themselves in ways that have led unruly crowds to act in defiance of lawful, constitutional procedures. It is not a matter to be lightly treated and those empowered with authority to correct the situation have a duty to apply disciplinary measures without hesitation.

Justices of the peace are sworn to “…be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty, her heirs and successors, according to law”. Clearly, there are those in Manchester who have violated this oath by publicly ridiculing a lawful act by the governor general who, in the course of his duties, has appointed someone to represent him in the parish of Manchester.

The parish of Manchester does not belong to a few disgruntled justices of the peace and their misguided followers. The leaders of this movement for disaffection must be disciplined.

Ken Jones

kensjones2002@yahoo.com