Jomo Thomas called to the Bar

On Monday at the High Court in Kingstown, one of this country’s nation builders was admitted to the local bar to practice law by Justice Frederick Bruce Lyle.{{more}}

Jomo Thomas, a man who is known for his stimulating articles in one of this country’s newspapers, talk show host and a leader of the reparation movement, recently completed his studies at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad.

Speaking to SEARCHLIGHT shortly after, Thomas said that he was completely ecstatic and being called to the bar was something he always wanted.

Thomas, who resided in North America for a number of years said that he came back to St Vincent to make a contribution. He said his call to the bar allows him to make his contribution and has no other ambition but to serve this country efficiently and effectively. “I want to do whatever I can to ensure that people get justice and to uphold the law of this country”.

Thomas has bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science from Brooklyn College (City University of New York), a master’s degree in political economy and international relations from Howard University. He also holds a law degree with a special certificate in International law from Rutgers University School of Law in New Jersey.

Lawyer Parnell Campbell, who moved the application for Thomas’ admission chided local barristers for not being present at such an event. He said it speaks volumes of some of the lawyers here in St Vincent and the Grenadines. “This indicates a lack of appreciation for professional courtesies.

Campbell described Thomas as a man of sterling character, reliable, diligent, conscientious and humble. It was in his view that a man of Thomas’ caliber would definitely bring a fresh spark to the profession.

Justice Frederick Bruce Lyle supported Campbell’s comments that it was indeed a poor turn out from other barristers and that he was highly disappointed. Bruce Lyle said that what struck him was that Thomas is a highly qualified man and yet so modest. “Having all this qualification, you go about your business so quietly and I hope you bring that to other members of the bar.”(KW)