Sergeant Arleen McBean Re-Elected as Chairperson Amidst Controversy in Jamaica Police Federation

On May 22, 2024, Sergeant Arleen McBean was re-elected as chairperson of the Jamaica Police Federation during the organization’s annual conference at the Hilton Rose Hall Hotel in Montego Bay, St James. McBean's re-election marks her second term, having initially been elected as a corporal in 2023. Her re-election is notable as she is the first female to lead the Federation.

The re-election of Sergeant Arleen McBean as chairperson of the Jamaica Police Federation has significant implications for the country's law enforcement and governance. If she fails to address the internal divisions and controversies, it could lead to a breakdown in trust and effectiveness within the police force, ultimately affecting public safety and security.

McBean's re-election comes at a time of internal divisions and controversies within the Federation, particularly surrounding the interdiction of former Chairman Corporal Rohan James. James, who is currently facing court proceedings with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, was interdicted following comments he made in July last year at a funeral for a colleague.

During the conference, there was notable disquiet regarding whether James should attend the event. Inspector Blanche Codner, who served as chairperson for two months after replacing James, stated in a letter to federation members that James would not be attending due to lack of approval from the Commissioner of Police. However, James contended that neither the chairman nor the police commissioner had the authority to bar him from attending, considering the conference the highest decision-making body for rank-and-file members' welfare.

A senior police officer clarified that rank-and-file members are at liberty to attend the joint central conferences of the Police Federation without requesting or obtaining permission. 'Note in recent years the Inspectors chose to hold their conference separate and apart from the usual tradition of participating in the Joint Central Conferences. In doing so, every Inspector other than the (two delegates) attend as Observers,' the officer explained.

The re-election of McBean, who garnered the most votes among all constituencies including sergeants, corporals, and constables, signifies a strong mandate. However, her leadership will be tested by the ongoing internal divisions and the need to uphold her oath without bias. As emphasized by Orville Taylor, police officers must perform their duties 'without favour, affection, malice or ill will,' and any officer unable to adhere to this is unfit for service.

The Federation's annual conference, which spanned over two days, featured former security minister Peter Bunting as a special guest. The event underscored the importance of unity and impartiality within the force, especially in light of the controversies and divisions that have recently surfaced.

As Sergeant Arleen McBean embarks on her second term, her primary challenge will be to foster unity and uphold the principles of fairness and impartiality within the Jamaica Police Federation. The internal divisions and the controversy surrounding Rohan James's interdiction will undoubtedly test her leadership and commitment to these ideals.

Key Takeaways

• Sergeant Arleen McBean re-elected as chairperson of Jamaica Police Federation.
• McBean is the first female to lead the Federation, marking a significant milestone.
• Her re-election comes amid internal divisions and controversies within the force.
• McBean's leadership will be tested by the need to uphold her oath without bias.
• Unity and impartiality within the force are crucial for effective law enforcement.