Opposition Leader Jamal Pringle has condemned Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s recent remarks targeting the judiciary, warning that judges must be allowed to perform their duties independently and without fear of political intimidation.

In an address to the nation, Pringle said the prime minister’s criticism of the judiciary should concern citizens regardless of political affiliation.

“At a time when our country requires calm, focused, and responsible leadership, we are instead witnessing increasing confrontation from the prime minister,” Pringle said.

He accused Browne of attacking public officers, including permanent secretaries, before turning his attention to members of the judiciary.

“Our civil servants and our judges must be able to carry out their responsibilities professionally, independently, and without fear of political intimidation,” Pringle said. “No prime minister, no cabinet, and no political party should place itself above the institutions of the state.”

His comments follow controversy over Browne’s recent criticism of sentencing decisions and his warning that a judicial officer he believes has been too lenient on criminals could be deported and declared persona non grata.

Pringle argued that the independence of the judiciary and other state institutions must be protected even as the country confronts concerns about crime and gun violence.

“Strong institutions are not the enemies of government; they are the foundation of good government,” he said.

The opposition leader said permanent secretaries, public officers, national security personnel and members of the judiciary must be permitted to carry out their responsibilities without political interference or intimidation.

“Leadership means accepting responsibility when things go wrong. It means respecting institutions. It means bringing people together in difficult times, not searching for someone else to blame,” Pringle said.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: OL Pringle Condemns Prime Minister’s Alleged Threats Against Judiciary.