Gov’t Rejects PNP ‘Vote Buying’ Criticism of GCT Break on Electricity

The Holness administration has rejected criticisms suggesting the recent announcement of a planned reduction in the general consumption tax, GCT, on electricity is an attempt to buy votes ahead of the upcoming general election.

Finance minister, Fayval Williams, says the announced initiative has nothing to do with elections.

Minister Williams was speaking at Wednesday’s post-cabinet media briefing at Jamaica House.

The opposition People’s National Party has questioned whether the announced initiative is meant to offer relief or buy votes ahead of the next set of national elections.

Information minister, Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, has also rejected the criticisms. She says cabinet has been exploring a raft of proposals to address the cost of living crisis.

Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information.

Meanwhile, Minister Williams says the planned reduction in the rate of GCT on electricity is part of a larger strategy to reduce the cost of the utility over the long term.

The Holness administration intends to cut the rate of GCT charged to electricity by more than 50 per cent, reducing it from 15 per cent to 7 per cent. The planned rate cut is expected to take effect following the March 2025 budget.

Minister Williams says the reduction in the GCT is just the first step in cutting electricity costs.

Fayval Williams, Minister of Finance and the Public Service. She was speaking at Wednesday’s post Cabinet media briefing.