KINGSTON, Jamaica — Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE) is mourning the passing of the Honourable Dorothy Pine-McLarty, a longtime contributor to Jamaica’s electoral reform efforts and a former chairman of the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ).

Pine-McLarty served for many years on the Electoral Advisory Committee before becoming the only member to transition to its successor body, the ECJ. She chaired the commission from 2013 until her retirement in 2019, a period CAFFE described as marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the institution’s role in safeguarding democratic processes.

A prominent attorney, Pine-McLarty was a managing partner at law firm Myers, Fletcher & Gordon and was widely respected for mentoring young legal practitioners. Her public service was recognised in 2007 when she was awarded the Order of Jamaica, and in 2019 she received an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean.

CAFFE said it valued its strong working relationship with the ECJ during her tenure and noted the significant legacy she leaves in strengthening Jamaica’s electoral system.

The organisation extended condolences to Pine-McLarty’s family, colleagues and friends.