On October 29, 2024, Justice Chantal Ononaiwu was sworn in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), making her the second Jamaican to join the Court. The ceremony took place at King’s House in Kingston, Jamaica.
CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders praised Justice Ononaiwu’s extensive background in international law, particularly in trade law. He highlighted her experience as counsel in significant CCJ cases and her role in handling international trade disputes for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). “Her expertise will greatly benefit the region,” he noted.
Justice Ononaiwu was selected from 12 candidates by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), which evaluates applicants based on experience, moral character, and analytical abilities. With over 20 years in legal practice, she has held various positions, including adjudicator and legal advisor, and has taught law at The University of the West Indies. Before her appointment, she served as Director of External Trade at the CARICOM Secretariat.
In her speech, Justice Ononaiwu expressed her commitment to advancing justice within CARICOM, stating, “I will work diligently with my colleagues to ensure fair and efficient justice for the region's people and states.”
Her appointment fills the vacancy left by Mr. Justice Jacob Wit, who retired in December 2023. The RJLSC is expected to announce further judicial appointments in the future.
The CCJ, established on April 16, 2005, has both Original and Appellate Jurisdiction. It interprets the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, which governs CARICOM, and serves as the final court of appeal for participating Caribbean nations. Currently, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Guyana and Saint Lucia use the CCJ for appellate matters, while all 12 CARICOM member states can access its Original Jurisdiction. The Court represents a significant step in the region's legal independence and development.
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