The man at the helm of the Dudus/ Manatt Commission of Enquiry has hit back at critics who have raised concern about how the proceedings are being conducted.

Emile George mounted the defense in Kingston this morning (January 31) on day 5 of the enquiry into matters relating to the extradition of former West Kingston Don, Christopher Dudus Coke.

The two main issues of concern to critics are the relatively slow pace of the proceedings and the failure to arrange dates for testimonies to be heard.

Regarding pace, Mr. George said his 3-member Commission will not be rushed unnecessarily.

Among the reasons given is what Mr. George described as a very heavy responsibility to protect the reputations of witnesses.

There was not just talk; there was some sort of action in relation to the absence of a schedule for witnesses to testify before the Dudus/ Manatt Commission.

Commissioner George announced a schedule at last.

However, within minutes, that schedule proved unworkable, as some witnesses say they will not be able to testify on the dates assigned to them.

In that regard, Attorney K. D. Knight bluntly told the Commission Chairman, that he has failed.

Here is the exchange between Mr. Knight and Commissioner George.

Commissioner George also repeated his call for an end to the leaking of witness statements to the media.

Some media houses have continued to report on statements, which are yet to be presented at the enquiry.

According to Commissioner George such action is frustrating the confidence of the Commissioners.