KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has voiced significant concerns regarding the repeated leaking of Integrity Commission (IC) reports to a specific media outlet before their official presentation in Parliament. The party has labeled this practice as a severe violation of the law and a threat to the principles of good governance. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the PNP highlighted a recurring pattern where IC reports are disclosed on the Nationwide News Network (NNN) prior to their formal tabling, a process mandated by the Integrity Commission Act. This law stipulates that such reports must first be submitted to Parliament and officially tabled before being made public. The PNP emphasized that these leaks undermine the authority of Parliament, erode public trust, and suggest a potential breakdown in the official chain of custody. ‘This is not merely a procedural issue; it strikes at the heart of good governance and the rule of law,’ the PNP stated, noting that the existing process is designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability, rather than allowing for selective or premature disclosures that could distort public understanding or prejudice individuals and institutions. PNP Spokesperson on Justice, Zuleika Jess, underscored the importance of safeguarding the Integrity Commission’s work from any perception of political interference or manipulation. ‘These recurring leaks before Parliamentary tabling represent a breach of lawful process and a threat to institutional integrity. Parliament’s role as the guardian of accountability must be respected, and the law must be applied evenly and consistently,’ Jess asserted. PNP Spokesperson on Information, Nekeisha Burchell, also expressed concern, pointing out that the leaks have consistently involved the same media house. ‘It is deeply troubling that official information intended for Parliament’s consideration continues to appear in the media before it is properly tabled, and even more concerning that it is consistently the same media house. This recurring breach undermines not only confidence in our governance structures but also the credibility of the information ecosystem that underpins democracy,’ she said. The PNP is urging an immediate and transparent investigation to identify the source of the leaks and to restore public confidence in the handling of Integrity Commission reports. The party reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, due process, and respect for the laws that underpin Jamaica’s democracy.
PNP raises alarm over ‘continued leaks’ of untabled Integrity Commission reports
