The People’s National Party (PNP) says by placing the Chief Justice in an acting role will interrupt the stability of the Jamaican democracy, as it will send a negative message to the Jamaican public.

This after Justice Bryan Sykes was formally appointed acting chief justice, replacing retiring Chief Justice Zaila McCalla.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness raised eyebrows at the swearing-in of Justice Sykes as acting Chief Justice, when he suggested, that Sykes would be on probation.

Speaking at a press briefing today ( Feb 2) Opposition Leader, Dr. Peter Phillips says it is an unacceptable situation to appoint an acting Chief Justice, as it goes against the country’s core constitutional principles.

In addition, Dr. Phillips says keeping Justice Sykes in an acting position, may be a signal of the government’s intention to interfere with the judiciary