The public inquiry into the death of Sheku Bayoh, a black man who died in police custody, faces uncertainty as Scotland's solicitor general accuses the inquiry chair of apparent bias. Ruth Charteris KC, the deputy chief prosecutor, has joined the Scottish Police Federation in calling for Lord Bracadale to step down as chair due to allegations of unfair private meetings with Bayoh's family. These claims, rejected by Bracadale, could have broad implications for public inquiries in the UK.

The solicitor general and SPF claim that Bracadale provided information to Bayoh's family that was not shared with other participants, raising concerns about the inquiry's fairness. This move, supported by one of the UK's senior lawyers, Jason Beer KC, has sparked debate about the integrity of the inquiry process.

Bayoh died in 2015 after being forcibly detained by police officers in Kirkcaldy, Fife. The public inquiry, which has cost around £50m and spanned 122 days, aims to investigate allegations of unjustified force and racism by the officers involved, as well as the lack of prosecution following Bayoh's death.

The SPF and two officers involved in Bayoh's arrest have expressed a loss of confidence in Bracadale, calling for his resignation. Despite these challenges, Police Scotland's chief constable supports the inquiry's continuation, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the family's confidence in the process.

During an oral hearing, concerns were raised about Bracadale's interactions with Bayoh's family, with accusations of unconscious bias and partiality. However, Beer, the lead counsel in the inquiry, defended Bracadale's actions, highlighting the standard practice of judges meeting with bereaved families in public inquiries.

Beer emphasized the fact-finding nature of the inquiry and refuted claims of misconduct, stating that the inquiry process differs from a criminal trial. He underscored the importance of upholding human rights principles in the inquiry's proceedings.