Justice Kennard dies at 86

Former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Cecil Kennard passed away at his home in the wee hours of Saturday morning at the age of 86.

The News Room understands that the renowned Justice was ill for some time and was hospitalised for a lengthy period.

Commenting on his passing, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, hailed the law stalwart as one who made a “significant impact” on Guyana’s justice system and whose contributions cannot be forgotten.

The late Justice Kennard served as State Prosecutor, Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), High Court Judge, Justice of Appeal, and Chief Justice.

“He made a tremendous mark on our legal system and our jurisprudence. He served for a number of years in very important capacities and over those years, his impact on the criminal justice system was great as criminal law was his forte,” Nandlall told the News Room via telephone interview on Saturday.

Added to his long list of accolades, the AG stated that the law reports of Guyana, the Caribbean, and the Commonwealth are littered with Justice Kennard’s input.

During his time as the Chairman of the PCA, Justice Kennard served with distinction, according to the Attorney General.

“Many persons would have known that he held outreaches all across Guyana offering the citizens an opportunity to voice complaints against members of the Guyana Police Force,” he said.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Justice Kennard was an avid lover of the horse racing sport, and even owned his own race track at Bushlot – the Kennard Memorial Turf Club.

“Certainly the void that Justice Kennard has left will be one that will not easily be filled in coming years. I want to take this opportunity to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to his family,” Minister Nandlall said.