Prime Minister Andrew Holness Responds to Integrity Commission Report
Prime Minister Andrew Holness Responds to Integrity Commission Report
Prime Minister Andrew Holness says he will seek legal advice regarding the Integrity Commission (IC) report laid in the Parliament on Tuesday.
The IC’s Findings
The IC, citing insufficient evidence regarding the non-disclosure of four bank accounts in his asset filings, has ruled out criminal charges against Prime Minister Holness for allegedly making false income declarations.
Investigation
The investigation was triggered by a September 2022 referral from the Commission’s commissioners, who had flagged the prime minister’s net worth growth of J$51.6 million over five years ending December 2021.
Prime Minister’s Response
“These matters were cleared, as the accounts in question, by my recollection, were dormant, previously reported, and the balance in them were around J$3,000 and Euro 200. Subsequently, my declaration was again considered for accuracy and completeness. Other accounts were identified and alleged to belong to me but undeclared,” Holness said.
Challenges to the Report’s Findings
Holness has challenged some of the report’s findings, including the conclusion that in 2022, his net worth of J$1.9 million, or less than one percent of his total net assets, experienced unexplained growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has responded to the Integrity Commission report, stating that he will seek legal advice regarding the report’s findings. He has challenged some of the report’s conclusions, citing insufficient evidence and errors in the report’s calculations. The Prime Minister has emphasized his commitment to transparency and accountability, and has urged the need for revisions to the law governing the Integrity Commission.
FAQs
Q: What did the Integrity Commission report conclude about Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s asset filings?
A: The report concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support claims that Prime Minister Holness intentionally omitted bank accounts from his declarations.
Q: What was the Prime Minister’s response to the report’s findings?
A: The Prime Minister has challenged some of the report’s conclusions, citing insufficient evidence and errors in the report’s calculations.
Q: What does the Prime Minister plan to do next?
A: The Prime Minister plans to seek legal advice regarding the report’s findings and to continue to discharge his duties with respect and dignity.
Q: What is the Prime Minister’s commitment to transparency and accountability?
A: The Prime Minister has emphasized his commitment to transparency and accountability, and has urged the need for revisions to the law governing the Integrity Commission.