Sharma moves to block PM

Late yesterday, the Chief Justice’s lawyers were granted leave from Port-of-Spain High Court judge Rajendra Narine to “apply for judicial review of the decision of the Prime Minister made on or about May 10, to begin the process under Section 137 of the Constitution.”

Narine further ordered that all action or proceedings be stayed pending the hearing and determination of the CJ’s application of judicial review.

Representing the CJ at the court yesterday were Deborah Peake SC, Rikki Harnanan and Devesh Maharaj. The case comes up for hearing on June 13.

Sharma is due to leave the country tonight to attend the 14th annual international Judicial Conference in Prague, Czech Republic. The three-day conference will take place from May 17 to 19.

During his absence, Justice of Appeal Roger Hamel-Smith will perform the functions of the office of Chief Justice. Sharma is expected to return to Trinidad and Tobago on May 22.