The People’s National Party (PNP) has reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of justice following reports that its former MP for Western St Mary, Jolyan Silvera, has been charged with the murder of his wife, Melissa Silvera.

In a statement released by the party just moments after charges were laid against the former MP, the Opposition party called upon members of the public to provide any information that can further assist the police in their investigation, “so that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice for Melissa”.

The party stressed that principles of justice and accountability are important aspects of the rule of law and due process.

“We again express our 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,” the PNP wrote.

On November 10 last year, news broke that Melissa Silvera died peacefully in her sleep while at her home in Stony Hill. However, a post-mortem later revealed that three bullet fragments were found in her body. The police subsequently opened a murder investigation.

The former MP was questioned, and his legal firearm was seized for testing.

Late last evening, news broke that Jolyan was taken into police custody as a suspect in the murder of his wife. Deputy Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey confirmed this afternoon that charges were laid against the accused following what he said was a thorough investigation.