Transparency strengthens parliament and public trust

THE EDITOR, Madam:
Former Constitutional Affairs Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte deserves commendation for her principled leadership as chair of Parliament’s Ethics Committee. Her position that transparency is intended to strengthen public confidence rather than to embarrass members of parliament reflects good governance. 
By allowing people to observe the work of the Ethics Committee, Malahoo Forte has demonstrated that accountability should be embraced. She is also correct in distinguishing ethical conduct from criminal conduct. Public service requires far more than compliance with the criminal law. Members of Parliament occupy positions of public trust and are expected to demonstrate integrity, honesty, impartiality, and sound judgement in every aspect of their duties. Conflicts of interest, even where they do not amount to criminal offences, can undermine public confidence if they are not openly disclosed and properly managed. 
Her proposal to establish a comprehensive register of interests is a significant institutional reform that deserves bipartisan support. Such a register would provide a permanent and transparent record of disclosures, exemptions, and potential conflicts of interest, thereby strengthening, parliamentary oversight and reinforcing accountability. Likewise, committee reports should receive meaningful debate and consideration in Parliament instead of becoming procedural formalities. 
Her assurance that the committee is not engaged in a witch-hunt reflects a mature understanding of democratic governance. Every member of parliament is entitled to due process, impartial hearings, and decisions based solely on evidence and established parliamentary rules. Justice demands not only fairness in substance but also fairness in appearance, thereby preserving confidence in both Parliament and the wider system of governance.  Applied economist Joseph Cox correctly reminds us that ethical behaviour forms the foundation of public confidence. 
People are more likely to trust their elected representatives when they know that allegations of misconduct or conflicts of interest will be investigated independently, professionally, and without favour. Such confidence is essential to strengthening Jamaica’s democratic institutions and restoring public faith in political leadership.
Jamaica now has an opportunity to demonstrate that accountability and fairness are complementary rather than competing principles. Parliament should fully support reforms that promote transparency, strengthen ethical oversight, improve disclosure requirements, and ensure that all members of Parliament remain accountable to the people they were elected to serve. By advancing these principles, Malahoo Forte has contributed meaningfully to improving parliamentary governance.

ROBERT DALLEY