Remove Warmington from all parliamentary committees

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Following calls from Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) and other civil society organisations for Mr Everald Warmington to be removed from the Cabinet, this move was a welcomed one.

We note, however, with concern that Mr Warmington still sits on the parliamentary committees that oversee anti-corruption and integrity matters; namely, the Oversight Committee of the Integrity Commission and the Joint Select Committees reviewing the Integrity Commission Act and the Protected Disclosure Act.

We, therefore, repeat our calls for Mr Warmington to also be removed from these parliamentary committees. This call stems from Mr Warmington’s statements that are deemed to breach the political code of conduct and undermine the constitutional right to vote, making his presence on these committees contradictory to the principle of true accountability and integrity needed for public office.

In addition to this request, JFJ is urging the Electoral Commission of Jamaica to clarify whether investigations are ongoing regarding Mr Warmington’s actions and to outline potential courses of action, in light of the commission’s recent assumption of the ombudsman role.

The organisation emphasises the importance of public accountability and transparency, even if these efforts are primarily conducted outside of the media spotlight.

JFJ also takes note of the Integrity Commission’s press release where the body has signalled its intention to communicate with the chairman of the parliamentary committees and the House Speaker regarding their own calls for Mr Warmington to be removed from these committees.

If one is to appreciate the significance of upholding integrity and accountability in all levels of governance, then one will appreciate that Mr Warmington’s continued presence on these committees is untenable.

We would also hope Mr Warmington has reflected on the weight of his words and actions, and that a true test of self-accountability be done where he also offers his resignation as a member of parliament.

JAMAICANS FOR JUSTICE