Wed Sep 11 05:09:00 UTC 2024: ## Integrity Commission Report Leak Sparks Controversy in Jamaica

**Kingston, Jamaica** – The release of details from an Integrity Commission (IC) report, submitted to Parliament but not yet tabled, has ignited a firestorm of controversy in Jamaica. The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has accused the government of deliberately leaking the report, while the governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has expressed concern about a general breach of confidentiality surrounding the anti-corruption agency.

The IC report, which is said to pertain to Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ annual statutory declaration, was reportedly leaked to the Nationwide News Network. The IC subsequently issued a press release reiterating that the report remains confidential until tabled in Parliament, citing the Integrity Commission Act’s Section 53 (3), which explicitly forbids the release of un-tabled investigation reports.

The PNP has condemned the leak, calling it “alarming and unacceptable,” and accusing the JLP of undermining public trust and democratic processes. They have called for the immediate convening of Parliament and the tabling of the full report.

Prime Minister Holness, while acknowledging his concern over the leaks, questioned the Opposition’s alleged foreknowledge of the report’s contents and timing, suggesting possible collusion. He also expressed broader concerns about the leak’s impact on the IC’s credibility.

The controversy comes amidst a tense political climate. Last month, PNP finance spokesman Julian Robinson predicted that the government would be forced to call an early election due to the anticipated backlash following the revelation of eight parliamentarians, including some JLP members, under investigation for illicit enrichment.

The timing and contents of the leaked report, and the surrounding accusations, are likely to further escalate political tensions in the coming weeks. The IC has urged the public to await the official tabling of the report in Parliament for a complete and accurate understanding of the findings.

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