Cummings-Edwards appointed Chief Justice of Turks and Caicos Islands

Former Chancellor of the Judiciary in Guyana Yonette Cummings-Edwards has been appointed Chief Justice of the Turks and Caicos Islands, becoming the third woman to hold the position.

The appointment was announced by Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, following what was described as a rigorous and competitive selection process.

According to a report by Hayden Boyce, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The SUN, Justice Cummings-Edwards brings more than three decades of judicial experience, having served in senior roles within Guyana’s judiciary, including as Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary and previously as Chief Justice.

She is expected to officially assume office on May 1, 2026, succeeding Justice Mabel Agyemang, who demitted office at the end of March after serving since 2020.

In the interim, Justice Tanya Lobban Jackson will act in the role to ensure continuity within the judicial system.

Justice Cummings-Edwards is credited with leading several initiatives aimed at strengthening the justice system, including the digitisation of court operations, improvements in case management, and expanding access to justice, particularly for remote and underserved communities.

Her work has also included advancing specialised courts, promoting restorative justice approaches, and supporting judicial training and institutional development.

In a statement, Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam expressed confidence in the appointment, noting that Cummings-Edwards stood out among a strong field of candidates.

She said the judge’s experience, leadership and commitment to the rule of law are expected to further strengthen the administration of justice and public trust in the judiciary.

The Governor also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Chief Justice Agyemang, whose tenure she said was marked by meaningful reforms and improvements to the court system.

In accepting the appointment, Justice Cummings-Edwards said she was honoured by the opportunity and pledged to work collaboratively with members of the judiciary, the legal profession and other stakeholders.

She said her focus would be on strengthening the delivery of justice in a manner that is fair, efficient and accessible, while upholding the rule of law.

The appointment was made on the advice of the Judicial Services Commission, chaired by Justice Neville Adderley, along with Dame Janice Pereira and Justice Carlos Simons.

Adderley said the selection reflects the Commission’s commitment to maintaining and improving the high standards of the judiciary.

The appointment also marks another milestone for regional and gender representation within the Turks and Caicos judiciary, continuing a trend of women holding the top judicial post for more than a decade.