The Bermuda Equal Justice Initiative has created a wish list ahead of the February 18 General Election.

The justice advocacy group said that its proposals are designed to “advance justice reform and create a fairer, more equitable system for all Bermudians”.

The list has been sent to all of Bermuda’s political parties as well as the independent candidates with a request that they confirm which provisions they are prepared to endorse and commit to implementing if elected.

Among the priorities is the establishment of a commission of inquiry into historical injustices, the modernisation of prison rules to align with international standards of rehabilitation, and reforming the Legal Aid system to improve access to justice.

The group is also calling for the enactment of legislation for wrongful conviction relief and the strengthening of police accountability through independent oversight.

A spokesman for the BEJI said: “BEJI is committed to working collaboratively with the incoming government and all members of the legislature to ensure these reforms are prioritised in the next parliamentary session.

“BEJI firmly believes that justice reform is essential to restoring trust, equity and fairness within our legal system, and we believe these measures will contribute to a Bermuda where justice is truly accessible to all, regardless of financial means or social status.”

The pressure group previously called for changes to the handling of disclosure in criminal trials. This came after the Crown failed to hand over important evidence on time, preventing cases from going to trial.

The BEJI referred to the case of Julian Washington, who was wrongfully convicted of murder with flawed DNA evidence.

In its wish-list material, the BEJI said: “Faulty forensic practices, highlighted by the Privy Council’s ruling in the case of Julian Washington, have necessitated a systemic review of historic cases by the Department of Public Prosecutions ...

“BEJI believes that a Bermuda-based commission would ensure timely and cost-effective reviews, restoring public confidence in the justice system”.

The group said legislation should be enacted to provide a clear framework for compensating those who are wrongfully convicted and imprisoned.

On reform of prison rules, the BEJI called for there to be immediate access to educational classes for remand inmates as well as the integration of vocational training and literacy programmes.

Recent reports in The Royal Gazette have highlighted a lack of resources in the Department of Corrections including for educational and rehabilitative programmes. The Government has said it is committed to closing the gaps.

The BEJI encouraged the public to share its wish list with their candidates, adding: “Together, we can ensure a brighter and more equitable future for all Bermudians.”