Constitutional lawyer Dr Lloyd Barnett has stepped down as chairman of Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE) after serving in that post for 21 years.

Dr Barnett assumed the role of chairman of CAFFE on the passing of the Most Reverend Samuel Carter, Archbishop Emeritus of Kingston in September of 2002. He has, therefore, served as chairman of CAFFE, providing outstanding leadership, for most of the organisation’s 26 years of existence.

CAFFE, in a release, said Dr Barnett will remain a member of the board of directors.

At the annual general meeting of CAFFE, held Saturday, September 2, 2023, educator Grace Baston was elected to succeed Dr Barnett as chairman. Baston has served on CAFFE’s board for over 15 years and has been at the forefront in the engagement of young people in the organisation’s activities, monitoring the electoral process and promoting democratic values. She recently retired as principal of Campion College in St Andrew.

Baston will be supported by an executive board comprising Audre-Lois Reynolds, treasurer; Connie Williams-Champagnie, secretary; and Anton Thompson, deputy chairman; as well as by a further nine board members, including Dr Barnett.

The board, said CAFFE, brings together a wide cross section of interests and skills which will enhance the mission of the organisation.

CAFFE, a non-partisan organisation, remains dedicated to promoting transparent, inclusive, and credible electoral processes in Jamaica and is preparing to monitor the upcoming local elections expected within a few months.