Bunting urges Comrades to bank on his integrity
Published:Tuesday | July 16, 2019 | 12:27 AMTamara Bailey/Gleaner Writer
Mandeville, Manchester:
People’s National Party (PNP) leadership aspirant Peter Bunting did not mince words during the launch of his Rise United campaign on Sunday in Manchester as he knocked the governing Jamaica Labour Party and sought to position himself as the man to lead the country.
“Are you ready for a PNP that provides real opportunities, that protects the rights of workers, that inspires the youth and yet galvanises the foundation members? Are you ready for a PNP that can win the next general election?” Bunting teased hundreds of supporters as he built up a lively atmosphere.
Bunting, who is challenging PNP President Dr Peter Phillips in a September 7 run-off, pointed to current scandals rocking the Government as reasons delegates should give him a chance to lead the party and propel him to Jamaica House.
Integrity, Bunting said in a jab at the Andrew Holness-led administration, was not a just a word but a way of life.
“Under my watch, there will be zero tolerance for any financial hanky-panky. Politicians must stay away from taxpayers’ money or be prepared to wear short pants,” he said to rousing cheers.
Lamenting reports of irregularities and misappropriation of funds at the energy and education ministries, Bunting suggested that focus be shifted to making things work in the interest of Jamaicans.
“Organised crime and political corruption go hand in hand, so when the prime minister’s two closest Cabinet colleagues are booted out under the cloud of scandals and criminal investigations, you understand why the Jamaica Labour Party Government is so weak and feeble in the fight against crime,” he charged.
Bunting also chided Prime Minister Andrew Holness for the hurdles in clearing his Integrity Commission filings, saying the situation was “shameful” and “a disgrace to this country”.
The Central Manchester member of parliament also mentioned the difficulties faced by small business owners and a majority of the labour force as a worrying trend. He said he was committed to ensuring a level playing field and protecting the rights of employees, particularly those on contract.