TCI NAMES NEW CHIEF JUSTICE

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam is pleased to announce the appointment of Hon. Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards as Chief Justice of the Turks and Caicos Islands, further to the advice of Judicial Services Commission, in accordance with section 87(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Hon. Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards

Hon. Justice Cummings-Edwards brings over thirty-seven years’ experience across the judiciary, having served at the highest levels in Guyana, including as Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary and previously as Chief Justice. She has led significant judicial modernisation initiatives including the digitisation of court systems, strengthening of case management processes and expanding access to justice, particularly for remote and underserved communities. She has also been instrumental in advancing specialised courts and restorative approaches to justice, while championing judicial training and institutional capacity building. Her career reflects a sustained commitment to judicial independence, integrity and the efficient administration of justice.

Commenting on the appointment, Her Excellency the Governor said:

“This appointment follows a rigorous and highly competitive process, from which Hon. Justice Cummings-Edwards emerged as an exceptional candidate. I am confident that her extensive judicial experience, demonstrated leadership and unwavering commitment to the rule of law will be instrumental in further strengthening the administration of justice and enhancing public confidence in our judicial system.

I extend my appreciation to the Judicial Services Commission for its continued diligence and support. I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to the former Chief Justice, the Hon. Justice Mabel Agyemang, for her six years of distinguished service to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Her tenure was marked by significant and far-reaching reforms that strengthened the institutional capacity of the courts and improved access to justice. I wish her every success in her future endeavours.”

Chair of the Judicial Services Commission, Justice Neville Adderley, stated:

“Upon my appointment last year 2025 as Chairman of the Judicial Services Commission I stated and I quote ‘As Chairman of the Commission I will endeavour to cause Judges and judicial officers to be appointed who will maintain or improve this already high standard’ of the Judiciary. I and the other Commissioners, the Rt Hon Dame Janice Pereira and the Hon Mr. Justice Carlos Simons K.C (Ret’d) are content that we have fulfilled that promise with this appointment.”

In accepting the appointment, Hon. Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards said:

“I am honoured to be appointed Chief Justice of the Turks and Caicos Islands and grateful for the confidence placed in me. I look forward to working collaboratively with my judicial colleagues, the legal profession and justice-sector partners to build on the strong foundation established and to further strengthen the delivery of justice in a manner that is fair, efficient and accessible to all. I remain committed to upholding the rule of law and serving the people of these Islands with integrity and dedication.”

Hon. Madam Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards will assume the office of Chief Justice on 1st May 2026 for a three-year term. In the interim period, Hon. Justice Tanya Lobban-Jackson will serve as Acting Chief Justice, ensuring continuity in the administration of justice.