The family of Sheku Bayoh have declared it is time to restart the stopwatch on the long-running public inquiry into his death, following the appointment of a new chairman. Judge Lord Colbeck has been named to lead the inquiry, taking over from Lord Bracadale who stepped down last year.
A New Chair Takes the Reins
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes informed the Scottish Parliament of the appointment on Wednesday, notifying all core participants. Lord Colbeck, appointed as a Supreme Courts judge in May 2023, brings considerable experience, having previously chaired the fatal accident inquiry into the 2013 Clutha helicopter crash in Glasgow. He will formally assume his role on Monday, March 2.
The inquiry's previous legal team, appointed by Lord Bracadale, stood down when he resigned in October 2024. Lord Bracadale's departure followed concerns regarding private meetings held with Mr Bayoh's family.
Family Calls for Swift Progress and Support
In a statement issued through lawyer Aamer Anwar, the Bayoh family welcomed Lord Colbeck's appointment, describing him as a no nonsense judge with a distinguished career who acts without fear or favour. They emphasised that the evidential hearings, which concluded in October 2024, have already been heard, and a clear timetable for the remaining stages is now needed as soon as possible.
The family's statement also called on Police Scotland and the Solicitor General to publicly back the inquiry and protect the 122 days of evidence already given under oath. They expressed hope the new chair would continue to treat them with the compassion, respect and empathy shown by his predecessor.
A Long-Awaited Conclusion
Sheku Bayoh, a 31-year-old father-of-two, died on May 3, 2015 after being restrained by approximately six police officers on Hayfield Road in Kirkcaldy, Fife. The public inquiry was announced in 2019, and while evidential hearings have finished, closing submissions are still pending.
Ms Forbes stated the appointment was a priority to enable the inquiry to complete its work, expressing confidence in Lord Colbeck's experience. A spokesperson for the inquiry said they looked forward to working with the new chair to fulfil its terms of reference.
David Kennedy, general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, said the inquiry was a deeply important national process. He stated the SPF was confident Lord Colbeck's leadership would ensure a focus on establishing facts and learning lessons, while treating all parties with fairness.
