PM warns against political interference; recommits to MP job descriptions

 

As a new legislative term begins, Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for West Central St. Andrew, Dr. Andrew Holness, has warned Members of Parliament that corrupt practices, including political violence, will not be tolerated. 

 

Citing the Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project, Dr. Holness said it had "unfortunately been marred by interference, intimidation and attempts by individuals to unlawfully insert themselves into the works".

 

"No one has the authority to hijack national projects, intimidate contractors or substitute political muscle for lawful governance. This administration is about order. It is about ensuring that systems are in place that work to preserve and protect public resources. There must not be, it will not be countenanced, and where it crosses the law to become an illegal or criminal act, the government will pursue," he warned. 

 

Dr. Holness also vowed that no parish will remain on the margins of development as the government continues to improve the infrastructure of the country.

 

In the meantime, the Prime Minister has committed to implementing the job description framework for parliamentarians. 

 

"If this House is to be part of the engine of growth, then its members must operate with the highest standards of efficiency and productivity and integrity and accountability. That is why during this term we will advance the process to formally institute job descriptions. This reform will make clear what the public rightly expects its elected representatives to do - regular attendance and active participation in cities and committees, diligent oversight of ministries and agencies, transparent and ethical use of public resources and continuous visible engagement with constituents. It will also create a framework to measure performance, improve accountability and strengthen public trust in institutions," he asserted. 

 

Dr. Holness urged the PNP to assist with the government's efforts to eradicate social violence.

 

He was speaking in the House of Representatives on Thursday after all 63 MPs took the Oath of Office. 

 

The ruling Jamaica Labour Party will have 35 members in the reconstituted House of Representatives to the People's National Party's 28.

 

Among the new members for the JLP are former Mayor of Kingston Delroy Williams, Andrew Morris and Audrey Marks. 

 

New members for the PNP include Nekeisha Burchell, Yvonne Rosemarie Shaw, Isat Buchanan, Wavel Hinds and Zuleika Jess. 

 

Among those returning to the Lower House after losing in the 2020 election are Peter Bunting, Dr. Dayton Campbell and Richard Azan.