The People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on Commissioner of Police Major General Anthony Anderson to rescind the interdiction of chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation, Corporal Rohan James.

Corporal James was interdicted and removed from duty by the police commissioner for inflammatory comments surrounding a long-standing issue with overtime pay for police officers.

However, the PNP in a statement on Thursday, argued that the action of the police chief raises serious questions about fairness and may contravene the chairman’s right to free speech.

“The PNP firmly upholds the principles of free speech and the right of every citizen, including public servants, to express their opinions without fear of reprisal. Corporal Rohan James, as the head of the Police Federation, has not only the right but also the duty to advocate for the welfare and interests of his fellow police officers. Expressing concerns about upholding a court order should not be grounds for punitive action but rather seen as a responsible act in the interest of justice,”

THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY

According to the Opposition, the action of the police commissioner violates James’ constitutional rights and sets a dangerous precedent that may have far-reaching implications for labour rights and freedom of expression.

“The PNP calls upon the commissioner of police to rescind the interdiction of Corporal Rohan James immediately. We believe that this action is unjust, violates his constitutional rights and sets a dangerous precedent that could have far-reaching implications for labour rights and freedom of expression in our nation,” the PNP said.