in June 2015 had not all been processed in favour of the recommendees as of the date of the election, and may have been perceived by the CJ as a “snub” or some form of disrespect. Alternatively, given that some of the recommendees’ applications remained pending after the election there would be the perception of the CJ’s awaiting favours from the current government7. 33. A particular concern was a report that WhatsApp messages were sent by the CJ to the PM shortly after the election in relation to following up the recommendations for HDC housing around the time that the appeals in the election petitions were being heard before a panel of the Court of Appeal which included the CJ. Recommendations 34. It is therefore necessary to consider the material that relates to any such recommendations. The undisputed evidence in this regard comes from a press release dated December 15th 2017 issued on behalf of the CJ clarifying and confirming that recommendations were in fact made. The terms of that release speak for themselves. Because this allegation lies at the heart of the application it is set out in full (all emphasis added). II. In 2015 the Honourable Chief Justice did forward the names of some needy and deserving persons to the Trinidad and Tobago Housing Development Corporation (HDC) for such consideration as might be appropriate. At no time has Chief Justice Archie ever recommended Mr. Dillian Johnson for HDC housing. It is patently untrue and appears to be purposeful mischief making for one to suggest otherwise. 7 ROA page 744 18