Jamaica’s People’s National Party (PNP) has highlighted the importance of the rule of law and due process, after one of its members, former Western St. Mary Member of Parliament, Jolyan Silvera, was charged for the murder of his wife, Melissa.
The 52-year-old land developer was officially charged on Friday, after being brought in the day before for a third round of questioning. He is expected to appear before the court next week.
It was initially reported that Melissa died in her sleep of natural causes on November 10 at the couple’s residence in Stony Hill, St. Andrew. However, an autopsy that was conducted three weeks later revealed that at least three bullet fragments were in her body.
Ballistics tests have since reportedly linked Mr. Silvera’s licensed firearm to the bullet fragments that were found in his wife’s body.
PNP comments
The PNP in its statement, said it is “committed to upholding the principles of justice and accountability and emphasises the importance of the rule of law and due process,” as it noted the charges.
“We call upon members of the public who have information that can assist the police investigation to do so, so that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice for Melissa,” said the PNP.
The party expressed its “sincere condolences to Melissa’s children and family, and we ask Jamaica to keep them in our prayers as they go through this terrible and tragic ordeal.”
In the meantime, the police have indicated that additional charges will be brought against Silvera.
The Commanding Officer for the Major Investigation Division, Superintendent Richard Hilton, said that during the investigation, the team visited the crime scene at the couple’s home and observed things that were “not normal.”
“The room has been completely tiled. We have seen signs of a paint job, and we have seen signs where items of furniture have changed,” Hilton said.
