JAMAICA | Golding orders defamation lawsuit against Deputy Speaker Heroy Clarke

Kingston, Jamaica, June 13, 2024 - In an unprecedented move that highlights the fraught state of political discourse in Jamaica, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Heroy Clarke is facing a defamation lawsuit from Opposition Leader and People's National Party (PNP) President Mark Golding.

The suit stems from allegedly defamatory comments made by Clarke about Golding's relationship with his wife, Sandra.

The controversy began on June 4, 2024, when Clarke reportedly made derogatory remarks about Golding's wife in a WhatsApp group with over 300 members.

These remarks, which have been characterized as utterly false and damaging, prompted Golding to instruct his lawyers to take immediate legal action. According to a letter from Golding’s legal team, Hart, Muirhead Fatta, the comments disparaged Golding's character and reputation, inflicting significant personal and professional harm.

Legal Actions and Demands

Golding's lawyers have set forth a series of demands for Clarke, which were to be met by June 10, 2024.

These include a written undertaking from Clarke not to publish or cause to be published any further defamatory statements about Golding; a full and unreserved written apology in a widely circulated Jamaican newspaper, and engagement in settlement discussions regarding damages for defamation.

Failure to meet these demands, the lawyers warned, would result in court proceedings seeking appropriate remedies, including damages and injunctive relief.

implications of the Comments

The alleged defamatory statements by Clarke have broader implications beyond the immediate legal battle.

Golding's lawyers contend that the remarks have not only sullied his reputation as the Leader of the Opposition but have also caused significant distress and embarrassment.

This incident comes at a critical time for the PNP, as it strives to regain political traction.

The personal attack on Golding could be perceived as a strategic move to undermine his leadership and the party's credibility.

The nature of the comments, which included false statements about the age and origins of Golding's relationship with his wife, Sandra, points to a deeper issue within the political culture.

Such personal attacks reflect a troubling trend of character assassination that could erode public trust in political institutions and leaders.

This lawsuit could set a precedent in Jamaican politics, emphasizing the need for accountability and decorum in public discourse.

Clarke’s Response and Next Steps

As of the deadline on June 10, Clarke has not publicly complied with the demands set forth by Golding's legal team. His silence or refusal to address the issue could be interpreted in various ways, potentially exacerbating the situation.

If the lawsuit proceeds, it will be a high-profile case that could dominate the political landscape, drawing attention to the legal and ethical boundaries in political communication.

The possible legal outcomes range from a court-ordered apology and financial compensation for damages to more severe penalties that could impact Clarke’s political career.

The PNP and its supporters will be closely watching the developments, hoping for a resolution that underscores the importance of integrity and respect in political interactions.

The defamation suit against Deputy Speaker Heroy Clarke by Opposition Leader Mark Golding is more than a personal grievance—it is a critical test of the standards of political conduct in Jamaica.

As the case unfolds, it will be a litmus test for the country’s commitment to upholding the dignity of public figures and the necessity of maintaining a respectful political dialogue. The outcome will likely influence the future tone of political engagements and could herald a new era of accountability in Jamaican politics.

-30-