A wind of change swept through 103 Old Hope Road in St Andrew yesterday, as the baton of Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) commissioner was passed on to Dr Kevin Blake.
Blake, after receiving welcoming gifts, acknowledged the weight of his new role with confidence, asserting his readiness to lead.
“I am prepared,” he affirmed, pledging to utilise his intellect, training, personal discipline, and emotional intelligence to propel the JCF forward. Blake pledged that “Under my watch, unprecedented programmes will be launched to win the hearts and minds across communities across Jamaica, to restore the JCF as the rightful legal guardians of Jamaica [and] providing trusted and reliable security services.”
His predecessor, Major General Antony Anderson, delivered his final address, initially silent before injecting humour, remarking on the education level of officers being the foundation for the force’s future.
“We will grow from strength to strength,” he affirmed, envisioning the JCF as a premier global police force. He reflected on his six-year tenure, remarking, “six years over in a flash”, but expressed confidence in the future growth of the JCF, opining that due to the calibre of the current officers, there will be no need for external successors.
Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang, expressed gratitude to Anderson, stating that they had “tracked the route together”. He also voiced confidence in Blake, who was previously a deputy commissioner, underscoring the recognition of young talent within the force.
The ceremony saw new constables, dressed in their royal blue uniforms, standing proudly alongside officers adorned in ceremonial brown, symbolising the transition of leadership.
The new commissioner also made a pledge to his colleagues, from the rank and file to the officers, stating “My colleagues as your commissioner, rest assured I have your back.”
“You can count on me to do everything in my power to ensure that you have the resources and training to execute the mission. Believe me when I say I have been well taught.”
Blake holds a PhD in sustainable development, a master of science in computer-based management information system and a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics, all obtained at The University of the West Indies, Mona. He joined the JCF on a special entry programme as an assistant superintendent and rose to assistant commissioner of police in 2013. He previously headed the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, National Intelligence Bureau, and Area Three Police.
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