Justice Winston Charles Anderson has taken office as the fourth President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), officially assuming the role during a ceremony held in Jamaica on Sunday. His swearing-in comes as the Court commemorates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of regional judicial service.
Addressing those gathered for the occasion, Justice Anderson spoke about his rise from modest beginnings in Saint Ann, Jamaica, to his new position as head of the region’s highest court. He credited the work of former CCJ presidents for helping to establish a strong foundation for the Court’s growth and impact.
Justice Anderson noted that over the past 20 years, the CCJ has delivered hundreds of rulings that influence legal standards both within and between member states, adding that these decisions have begun to shape the daily lives and self-perception of Caribbean people.
A seasoned jurist, Justice Anderson’s career includes roles as General Counsel to the CARICOM Secretariat, senior lecturer, and policy advisor. His academic background spans the University of the West Indies and Cambridge University. In 2010, he became both the first Jamaican and the youngest person appointed to serve as a judge on the CCJ.
Sunday’s ceremony drew the attendance of regional officials, including Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, and outgoing CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders.
Prime Minister Holness described Anderson’s appointment as a moment of great significance and pledged his government’s support for the continued development of the CCJ.
He described the Court as both a custodian of the region’s legal identity and an important agent of innovation in Caribbean justice.
Tributes were also paid to Justice Saunders, who is stepping down after a distinguished 48-year legal career, including 20 years at the CCJ, where he served seven years as its third President. His tenure saw the implementation of the Court’s first strategic plans, enhancements in public engagement, and strengthened institutional stability, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In his farewell remarks, Justice Saunders expressed thanks for the opportunity to serve and offered his full support to Justice Anderson as he takes the helm of the institution.
