KINGSTON, Jamaica — National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang has said that newly-appointed Commissioner of Police, Dr Kevin Blake, is the most qualified top cop in the region.

Chang made the remark recently during his contribution to the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

The security ministry also described Blake’s elevation to the top job as a “Jamaican success story”. He further lauded outgoing commissioner Major General Antony Anderson who was in charge of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) for six years during which he oversaw far-reaching changes.

“We are indeed, blessed to have someone of the calibre of Dr Blake, who may be the most qualified chief of police in the entire region. Truly a Jamaican success story,” Chang stated.

He noted that “On the recent occasion of selecting a commissioner of police, the Police Service Commission (PSC) interviewed the four deputy commissioners who were all found to be very capable of holding that office.

“However, with the continued evolution of the force, its expanded size and increasing use of technology, change management skills were deemed very critical going forward. Consequently, the PSC found in Dr Kevin Blake, the right person at this time.”

The security minister pointed to Blake’s experience in the JCF, which includes intelligence, logistics, policy, research and geographic policing.

“This makes him a highly-qualified individual. In fact, Dr Blake’s intellectual acuity makes him a chief executive officer in any company; with a first degree in Computer Science and Mathematics, masters in Computer-Based Management Information System, and a PhD in Sustainable Development. These proficiencies and skills are critical to the successful administration of a large organisation that operates in a dynamic environment,” Chang stressed.

He also pointed to what he said was the smooth and seamless transition from Major General Anderson to Dr Blake, describing it as a testament to the level of human resource development that has taken place within the JCF.

“There will be some hurdles along the way, but I am confident that Dr Blake possesses the capabilities to overcome them and resolve any issues that arise,” Chang remarked.

He expressed his “deep appreciation” to Anderson, whom he noted, had over the past six years initiated the broad range of changes “and helped to ensure that we could take the force to this level”.

“There is no doubt that the elevation of a serving member to the highest office will impact positively on the morale of the force, since any bright, young officer can now aspire to reach the highest level within the force,” Chang added.