Degrading institutions is limiting Jamaica’s growth
Published:Monday | June 12, 2023 | 12:10 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
It has been rather interesting, though unfortunate, to read the various derogatory comments made about the Integrity Commission (IC) by some ministers of Government.
However, I am yet to hear what law has been broken by a member, or members, of the IC. Undoubtedly, had a law been infringed, then the appropriate action would have been taken. No questions asked!
Therefore, the IC has and continues to execute its duties within the remit of its assigned authority and the law. This clearly has not gone down well with some members of Government. What has eluded these government members is that the IC was not constituted to add to already-inflated egos, but rather, to ensure transparency, honesty and, I dare say, integrity in all its undertakings.
The leader of the Opposition and some members of his shadow Cabinet have signed the Leadership Code of Conduct. Yet, no member of the Government has done so, with Minister Chuck reportedly saying that no member has seen the document. Minister, the IC has advised that the document was sent to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) from last year. Why not ask the OPM about the document and proceed from there?
Jamaica continues to be plagued by a serious crime problem and that of corruption. Yet, we choose to degrade persons and institutions that are put in place to help address these very challenges that continue to tarnish our country. No wonder our progress is extremely limited, if not retarded.
It may be worthwhile for the members of the Government to take a trip to Singapore, a country that got their independence three years after Jamaica did. They should sit with past and/or current ministers of government and learn how to develop a country and its people.
ROBERT BARRETT
South Korea