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Prime Minister Andrew Holness has strongly condemned the "appalling act of violence" against a director of the Integrity Commission that occurred on Thursday morning.
Ryan Evans, Director of Corruption Prevention at the Integrity Commission, has been hospitalised after he was shot and wounded in the car park at the Commission's offices on Knutsford Boulevard in New Kingston.
He was shot in the arm and a briefcase in his possession was stolen by his attackers.
The shooting took place sometime after 11 o'clock.
In a statement issued Thursday late morning, Prime Minister Holness said the government is deeply concerned about the incident, and "our thoughts and prayers are with the injured director and their family at this time".
He said the Integrity Commission plays a crucial role in upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity within Jamaica and any act of violence directed at individuals serving in such critical roles is an affront to the values that the country's democracy stands for.
Mr. Holness said the government has full confidence in the law enforcement agencies' ability to swiftly investigate this matter and bring those responsible to justice.
The government urged the public to cooperate with the authorities in their efforts to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.
Prime Minister Holness emphasized that violence has no place in Jamaican society, and citizens must all work together to promote a culture of respect, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. "Such incidents should not deter those committed to serving our nation with honesty and integrity," he said.
The statement said the Government of Jamaica remains committed to supporting the work of the Integrity Commission and will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of its staff.
The government called for all Jamaicans to stand united against violence and to continue working together for a brighter and more prosperous future for our beloved country.
'Devastating and unacceptable'
National Integrity Action has also denounced the attack on the Integrity Commission director, calling it "a most devastating and unacceptable development in our country".
NIA founding director Professor Trevor Munroe said attacks on the public body must cease, as Jamaica's democracy requires our institutions to function in a peaceful environment.
Citing the recent shooting on the compound of Nationwide News Network as well as today's attack in which the IC director was hurt, Professor Munroe argued that these incidents have reached a "new level in assaulting our democratic rights".
He urged Jamaicans to come together as citizens, civil society, political parties, and independent community organisations to insist that all words or acts of violence must end.
PNP
The parliamentary opposition added its own condemnation and expressed shocked at the shooting of the Integrity Commission employee.
The People's National Party (PNP) said while it awaits a full report from the authorities, it is not surprised that the incident has captured the attention of the entire nation, especially in light of recent developments in Parliament stemming from an Integrity Commission report.
The party added that the authorities should provide additional security for the members of the Integrity Commission including Close Protection Officers when appropriate.
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