PRESS Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has called for “an immediate reversal” of the decision of a high court judge to bar the media from the murder trial of former Member of Parliament Jolyan Silvera.

Media Association of Jamaica (MAJ) also made a similar call on Friday.

Justice Vinette Graham-Allen on Thursday told reporters that no permission would be granted to cover the trial of Silvera, who has been charged with the murder of his wife Melissa. His family members were also barred.

Silvera is due to return to court on February 8.

According to the police, on November 10 last year Melissa reportedly died in her sleep, but a post-mortem later revealed the presence of bullet fragments in her body.

In a statement, PAJ called for an immediate reversal of the decision of the High Court judge, unless there is a compelling explanation and justification.

“If that is the case, the public must be informed what this is,” PAJ said, noting that the principle of open justice is extremely important in Jamaica where any member of the public should be free to observe court proceedings, except in exceptional circumstances.

It noted the high-profile nature of the murder case involving the former Member of Parliament, saying it is critical the proceedings be open to public scrutiny to help maintain confidence in the justice system in general and in the conduct of the case in particular.

“No reason has been given why this case should be an exception to the open justice principle.

“We see none, and believe that, in fact, this case is a prime example of one which must be carefully scrutinised by the media and the public. We, therefore, call for an immediate reversal of this decision,” said PAJ.

At the same, MAJ expressed bewilderment the media were barred in the high-profile case.

“It is very important that the public is afforded high transparency on this very public matter with implications on public sentiment towards the judiciary and governance of the country. A closed hearing will lead to speculation on the part of the public, which may do greater harm than whatever concern the judge has sought to mitigate,” said MAJ in a statement.

“The judiciary must always be mindful of its own often-repeated adage: ‘Justice must not only be done, but it must also appear to be done.’

“The MAJ believes in the integrity and robust calibre of the Jamaican judiciary system, nevertheless the MAJ is very concerned about the appearance of justice in this case — especially as it diverts from the normal practice in high-profile cases,” added the media group.

It called on the judiciary to reconsider or provide clear reasons for continuing to uphold this divergence from normal practice, saying the very unfortunate decision has grave press freedom implications for the country — especially given the case’s high profile and connection to the country’s governance.