Opposition Accuses Gov’t of Misusing Power After Failed Motion

“A bad and sad day for democracy!” That’s the word from opposition leader, Mark Golding, after he was blocked from tabling a Private Members motion against Prime Minister Andrew Holness, concerning his statutory declarations.

During Tuesday’s sitting of Parliament, the opposition staged a walkout after Golding’s attempt to introduce the motion was thwarted by Deputy Speaker, Heroy Clarke, who cited a breach of standing orders.

Opposition members of parliament, led by Mr. Golding, left the Parliament to stand outside Gordon House in protest.

Mr. Golding says the move by the deputy speaker to block the motion was an example of the misuse of power by the government benches.

According to the People’s National Party, PNP, the motion cites a serious breach of the Ministerial Code of Conduct, which mandates transparency and ethical standards from cabinet members.

The PNP says the prime minister has come under scrutiny for failing to disclose his investigation by the Integrity Commission.

Mr. Golding says the motion called for a condemnation of the prime minister for failing to uphold ethical standards in government. It also called for a censure of the prime minister’s actions of cover-up regarding the identities of those under investigation.

The motion further requested a declaration that Holness’ actions have severely undermined his credibility, leading to a loss of confidence within the House.

Mr. Golding says the motion would have been debated during next week’s sitting of Parliament.

Mark Golding, opposition leader.