Opposition Leader Mark Golding has called for the immediate appointment of a new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The call followed Friday morning’s ruling by the constitutional court that Paula Llewellyn’s second extension in office was unconstitutional.

The Opposition said based on the ruling, Ms. Llewellyn must demit office, immediately.

The ruling was made on a lawsuit filed last year, by People’s National Party members, Peter Bunting and Phillip Paulwell.

The lawsuit challenged amendments to legislation, which extended the retirement ages of the auditor general, and the DPP, from 60 to 65 years, with a possible extension to 70 years.

Bunting and Paulwell contended that the extension was enacted for an improper purpose and was therefore inconsistent with the constitution.

In handing down its ruling this morning, the court explained that while the amendment to increase the DPP’s age of retirement is valid, the new provision introduced in section 2-2, which gives the DPP the right to elect to remain in office, is invalid.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, the opposition leader described the ruling as a victory for the people of Jamaica.

He said the ruling effectively means that Ms. Llewelyn is no longer the DPP.

Mr. Golding said the public service commission should begin the process of filling the role.

The Opposition Leader added that government must act immediately to avoid uncertainty in the judicial system.