Reveal yourselves, says Samuda
Published:Wednesday | September 29, 2010 | 12:00 AM
Re-elected president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), Milton Samuda, yesterday urged his members to subject themselves to full disclosure as it relates to party financing.
Samuda, who was unanimously returned as president of the JCC for the third consecutive time, breaking the tradition of a two-term limit for presidents, said the sector could not demand full transparency from public officials if they themselves were not willing to subject themselves to the same call.
"Specifically, in relation to party funding, we cannot expect the reform we wish if we ourselves are unwilling to participate in full disclosure, choosing instead to cower in secrecy, claiming fear of political victimisation," he said while addressing the JCC's annual general meeting at the Knutsford Court Hotel in St Andrew.
"Transparent processes at all levels are, I submit, a better safeguard against victimisation of any kind," he added.
Samuda made the call while commending the chamber for what he claimed was its ability to take back its position as one of the defining voices of the private sector.
Widespread support
"I strongly believe that we were able to reclaim that position and garner widespread support precisely because we did two things. First, we acted and spoke on principle, regardless of the politics and personalities of the situation. This kept us consistent. Second, we at all times sought to act in the national interest," he said.
Samuda was referring to the extradition saga involving Christopher 'Dudus' Coke, the reputed drug lord and leader of Tivoli Gardens who was wanted by the Unites States for alleged drug and gunrunning.
The JCC had joined other sector groups calling for the Bruce Golding administration to send the extradition request to the local courts for judgment. The Government subsequently yielded to public pressure and signed the extradition request for Coke, who was later captured and sent to the United States where he is awaiting trial.
The JCC was also vocal on the Manatt, Phelps & Phillips matter, which exposed the Government as being involved in the retention of the United States law firm to lobby the American Government on behalf of Coke.
The JCC at the time called for full disclosure on the matter by the administration and pressed for an independent investigation into the matter.
Meanwhile, Samuda, in his president's remarks, also urged all businesspersons to get involved in a private sector organisation.
"Please cease being a spectator in the process by which your own fortunes and future are decided. Join us, work with us. Put your money and time where your mouth is," he said.
"Do not complain hopelessly but complain with a suggested solution and an offer to volunteer some time and energy to righting some considerable wrongs," he said.
Re-elected JCC president asks members to disclose party funding
Other executive members
- Francis Kennedy, first vice-president
- Warren McDonald, second vice-president
- Glen Christian, third vice-president
- Cary Wallace, fourth vice-president
- Catherine Kennedy, treasurer
- Tricia Gaye Watson, counsel