The Judiciary of Guyana mourns the passing of the Hon. Justice Cecil Kennard, OR, CCH, former Chancellor of the Judiciary of Guyana on Saturday March 12, 2022.
Chancellor Kennard was an outstanding jurist whose commitment to upholding the rule of law was unquestionable. He was passionate about the law, particularly criminal law. He has left a rich legacy of decisions that have enriched the jurisprudence of Guyana and the Caribbean.
His long and illustrious career saw him holding positions as Crown Counsel in the Chambers of the Attorney-General and Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Magistrate, Legal Adviser to the Guyana Police Force, Puisne Judge, Justice of Appeal, Chief Justice and Chancellor. Prior to his judicial career, Justice Kennard served with distinction as a Prosecutor in Antigua and Barbuda.
On his retirement from the judiciary, Chancellor Kennard served as Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority and was consulted by governmental agencies. He brought to bear the same zeal and dedication to duty to this post and consultancies as he did on the bench.
Chancellor Kennard had a warm and affable personality and was always approachable. He conducted himself with decorum and integrity.
Outside of judicial duties, Chancellor Kennard was a sports enthusiast. He had a passion for cricket and horseracing. He served in the administration of horseracing and personally supervised the annual Kennard Memorial Horseracing meet in Berbice.
A true son of the soil, Chancellor Kennard served Guyana with pride, humility and distinction. We have lost a great jurist and his passing has left a void in the legal profession.
The Judiciary extends sincerest condolences to Mrs. Kennard, his son, Gairy, other family members, relatives, friends and all who mourn his loss. May his soul rest in peace.
Sgd: Hon Mme Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards
Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag)
March 12, 2022
