JAMAICA | PNP Parliamentarians: We are not involved in illicit enrichment !

KINGSTON, Jamaica. August 16, 2023: The Peoples National Party  says all its “Parliamentarians, including our Senators, have confirmed that they have not been approached by the Integrity Commission (IC) regarding any investigation for illicit enrichment.”

In a statement today, the PNP said “The Party leadership has contacted all current members individually, and is satisfied that none on our side has received communication from the IC indicating that they are subjects of investigation for unjust enrichment.” 

The statement over the signature of the General Secretary Dr. Dayton Campbell, said “While our side of the aisle has confirmed our status, we call upon the Members of Parliament from the Government, including the Prime Minister, to follow suit and openly inform the country whether any of their members are being investigated by the IC.”

The PNP said “It is imperative for the public's confidence that there is transparency on this matter. Leader of the Opposition Mark Golding says, “The Prime Minister must not hide the truth from the people. Who are the six? The country needs to know. Don’t hide it, tell it!”

The opposition PNP said, “considering the seriousness of these investigations, it is only prudent that any government ministers, representatives, or officials who are being investigated voluntarily step aside from their official duties during the investigation process.” 

They noted that: ”It is essential that we maintain the integrity of our governance structures and ensure that those under investigation are not in positions that may compromise the impartiality of the process. Additionally, any parliamentarian under investigation for illicit enrichment should withdraw their membership from the Integrity Commission Oversight Committee and/or the Joint Select Committee reviewing the Integrity Commission Act because of the obvious conflict of interest.”

The Opposition statement said “We cannot have government ministers and representatives overseeing the country's resources while under investigation for possible corruption. This goes beyond party lines; it's about upholding the principles of good governance and accountability that all elected officials should be held to.

“The PNP will continue to monitor the situation closely and cooperate with any investigations that may arise in the future. We are steadfast in our dedication to fostering a just and accountable political environment,” the statement concluded.

The investigation was revealed in July during the Integrity Commission’s annual report for the 2022/2023 reporting period, which was tabled in the House of Parliament. The six have allegedly breached Sections 14 (5) (a) of the Corruption Prevention Act.

According to the provision, illicit enrichment happens when a public servant owns assets disproportionate to his lawful earnings; and upon being requested by the commission or any person duly authorised to investigate an allegation of corruption against him, to provide an explanation as to how he came by such assets, he fails to do so; or gives an explanation which is not considered to be satisfactory. In such a scenario, an individual shall be liable to prosecution for the offence of illicit enrichment.

-30-