Kellier pushes for more visible, engaged JPs

The appointment of Malike Kellier as chairman of the Justices of the Peace of Jamaica – Kingston Association (JPJKA) marks a shift towards younger leadership, renewed civic energy and an emphasis on innovation within one of the island’s key volunteer justice bodies.

An attorney-at-law called to the bar in Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, Kellier brings a wide-ranging legal perspective to the role. His professional life extends across academia, media and national service, underscoring a career shaped by public engagement as much as legal expertise.

As an adjunct lecturer at The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, he helps shape the next generation of legal professionals. His rise within the JPJKA has been steady and deliberate. Commissioned as a justice of the peace (JP) in November 2020, he served as a founding contributor to the association’s interim board, initially as youth representative. He later became secretary and then director with responsibility for professional and social development, enabling him to influence both governance and member engagement.

“Service above self has always been my guiding principle. The work of a justice of the peace is rooted in community trust, integrity, and accessibility,” Kellier said.

His contribution to national development has earned him notable recognition, including the Governor General’s Achievement Award and the Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Excellence in National Leadership. His involvement as an I Believe Initiative Ambassador within the Governor General’s Programme for Excellence further reflects his commitment to youth empowerment and civic responsibility.

Kellier’s vision for the JPJKA is clear: strengthen member engagement while building a financially resilient and sustainable organisation. “My tenure will be guided by improved engagement and robust financial stability for the association,” he said.

Home to more than 1,200 justices of the peace, Kingston has one of Jamaica’s largest JP communities. Kellier stresses the need to strengthen connections among members, not only to support professional collaboration but also to enhance service delivery across the parish.

“We want to ensure that our JPs remain actively involved, not just with each other through networking, but also in outreach and service initiatives that directly benefit the communities we serve,” he said.

A 12-member board, comprised of experienced and committed individuals, supports this direction and is dedicated to upholding the high standards of the Office of Justice of the Peace in Kingston.

COMMUNITY-FOCUSED ACTIVITIES

Under Kellier’s leadership, the JPJKA has set out a full calendar of community-focused activities. These include an annual church service, scheduled for March 22 at Christ Church, Vineyard Town; a Labour Day project; Read Across Jamaica Day activities in May; an annual fish fry in June; a back-to-school health fair in July; and a Christmas family fun day for inmates in December. The programme reflects a balanced approach to service, combining civic duty, education and community development.

“Our activities are designed to ensure that we remain visible, relevant, and impactful. Being a JP is not just about official duties, it is about being present in the lives of the people we serve,” he said.

Justices of the peace play an essential role in Jamaica’s justice system and community life. They witness documents, administer oaths, certify copies and support the maintenance of order at the local level. They are also widely regarded as trusted intermediaries—individuals who help bridge the gap between citizens and the justice system.

Kellier believes that modernising the office, while preserving its integrity, is key to maintaining its relevance. “We must continue to evolve while maintaining the dignity and trust associated with the office. That means embracing innovation, strengthening training, and ensuring that our members are equipped to meet the changing needs of society,” he said.

The newly elected leadership blends experience with fresh perspectives. The executive includes vice-chairman Dr Mark Gonzales; secretary Dr Shelley Ebanks-McGregor; and treasurer James McNish. Directors are Sonia Fuller, Colonel Murphy Pryce, Grace Chin Loy-Orelue, Leighton Jones, April Abbott, Sheina Gay Richards, Tricia Williams, André Barnaby and Cynthia Cooke.

As Kellier assumes the chairmanship, he represents a generation of public servants who marry professional competence with a strong commitment to community and national development. “This is about building a stronger, more connected association that continues to serve with excellence. When our JPs are empowered, our communities are stronger,” he said.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com