Businessman Bernard Henry Sworn in as New Custos Rotulorum for St. Elizabeth

Businessman, Bernard Henry, has been sworn in as the new Custos Rotulorum for St. Elizabeth.

He succeeds Stevon Sheriffe, who served in the position in an acting capacity following the retirement of former Custos, Beryl Rochester, in January 2026 after nearly 12 years in the role.

Mr. Henry received his Instrument of Appointment from Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, after taking the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office during a ceremony at King’s House on Thursday (October 15).

In his remarks, the Governor-General emphasised that the role of Custos is one of considerable distinction, carrying significant public responsibilities in service to the parish.

He noted that the new Custos brings a wealth of experience and a record of notable contributions to the role.

“Mr. Henry has more than 35 years of experience in business, leadership and community development. Across telecommunications, retail, agriculture, real estate and distribution, his endeavours have contributed to employment and economic activity in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean,” the Governor-General outlined.

He further noted that, as Co-founder, Group President and Chief Executive Officer of the FIMI Holdings Group, Mr. Henry has demonstrated the vision and discipline required to establish enterprises, navigate complex responsibilities and forge enduring partnerships.

Beyond his commercial accomplishments, the Governor-General noted that Mr. Henry has helped foster cooperation and advance the interests of St. Elizabeth as Chairman of the St. Elizabeth Community Development Foundation and through his involvement with the St. Elizabeth Homecoming Foundation.

He further indicated that the businessman has made significant contributions to education, institutional governance and national development through his service to Munro College, Bethlehem Moravian College, and the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC).

The Governor-General emphasised that these experiences are particularly relevant as Mr. Henry undertakes the responsibilities of Custos Rotulorum.

“Mr. Henry, you will be my representative in St. Elizabeth. As its first citizen… you will support the administration of justice, provide leadership to the network of Justices of the Peace, and encourage civic participation,” he affirmed.

The Governor-General emphasised that the role calls for sound judgment, objectivity and the ability to command public confidence.

Meanwhile, he thanked Mr. Sheriffe for his willingness to serve in the role in an acting capacity over the past 10 months, ensuring continuity in the work of the Office of the Custos.

The Governor-General further paid tribute to former Custos, Beryl Rochester, noting that “throughout her tenure, she gave generously of her time and experience in service to the people of the parish, contributing to its civic life and the advancement of its communities”.

In his response, the new Custos Rotulorum affirmed that he is mindful of the responsibility he has assumed and the trust reposed in him through the office.

He thanked Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, for recommending his appointment, as well as those involved in guiding him through the process.

“Your Excellency, I will do my best to represent you with dignity and to serve the people of St. Elizabeth with humility, fairness and integrity. I intend to listen, to learn and to work closely with our Justices of the Peace and our community partners. I want every person who seeks our assistance to be treated with respect, and I want our young people to know that they have a place and a future in our parish,” Mr. Henry maintained.

An installation ceremony for the new Custos of St. Elizabeth will take place in the parish in due course.