Golding says tougher measures needed for good governance

Opposition Leader Mark Golding is calling for stronger support for anti-corruption measures and institutions aimed at promoting good governance and moral values in Jamaica.

Golding said the People's National Party (PNP) remains committed to upholding principles of good governance, and urged the government to strengthen efforts to investigate unexplained wealth.

He was speaking during his contribution to the Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.

“You should be strengthening the anti-corruption arsenal by introducing Unexplained Wealth Orders to reinforce the tools available to law enforcement for recovering illegally obtained income and wealth,” Golding said.

“That was agreed upon from 2019, but you have cast it asunder.”

He also questioned the government’s failure to pursue legislation aimed at holding public officials accountable.

“Why have you abandoned the procedures for the impeachment of parliamentarians and other holders of high office, which were tabled in this House in 2011 and updated in a Private Member’s Bill in 2021?” he asked.

“Why are you not pursuing procedures for the recall of underperforming elected representatives to ensure there are consequences when conduct falls below acceptable standards in a democratic society?”

Golding charged that the government has failed to support calls for public education campaigns promoting shared values and respect for the rule of law.

He pointed to efforts by former Prime Minister P J Patterson through the Values and Attitudes Programme, which he said was ultimately derailed by partisan politics.

“I remain committed to pursuing a national, non-political movement focused on the spiritual, moral and ethical upliftment of Jamaica,” Golding said.

He added that such an initiative should be led by civic and spiritual leaders, with government support.

- Corey Robinson

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