WATCH: Jolyan Silvera to return to court April 11 when bail application will be made
KINGSTON, Jamaica— Former St Mary Member of Parliament (MP) Jolyan Silvera was remanded into custody until April 11, when he returned to court on Thursday.
King’s Counsel Peter Champagnie and attorney Patrice Riley, who represent Silvera, told the media that an application for bail will be made at that time.
Champagnie said that he could not say much on Thursday’s court proceedings as the ruling made by Justice Vinette Graham- Allen last month to have the media barred from the court was upheld. To ensure compliance a policeman was placed outside the courtroom.
READ: Silvera family, media barred from court
“In a general we can’t say much because the strictures that were imposed on the last occasion still obtain and I think it is important for persons to recognise that based on the offenses for which Mr Silvera is charged they would fall within the band where there is an in camera hearing and we have to comply with the law. So all that we can say at this time— Ms Riley and I— is that the matter is fixed for bail application on the 11th of April. On that date the court will hear submissions from us as to why it is that Mr SIlvera is a good and fit candidate for bail and I imagine that the prosecution will make a contribution to that in terms of their own position,” Champagnie said.
He added that he is unsure whether the judge will allow the media to enter the court in upcoming proceedings.
As it pertains to Silvera’s well-being, Champagnie said his client is gravely concerned and anxious for his day in court.
“There is obviously grave concern, he is anxious to be vindicated, he is anxious to have his day in court and he is very concerned [and] apprehensive as anyone would in that particular situation,” Champagnie told reporters.
Champagnie had no comments on the state of Silvera’s children but continued to implore the public to be mindful of what is shared on social media as it will impact the lives of the children.