PNPYO backs calls for Wheatley’s resignation and demands answers from Prime Minister

The People’s National Party Youth Organisation (PNPYO) supports calls for the resignation of Minister Andrew Wheatley and is demanding transparency and accountability from Prime Minister Andrew Holness regarding the handling of Integrity Commission investigations and reports.

Documents tabled in Parliament this week indicate that the Integrity Commission’s Director of Corruption Prosecution recommended charges against Minister Wheatley for allegedly making false statements in statutory declarations covering 2013–2017 and 2018–2022, as well as for failing to provide information requested by the Commission.

For Jamaica’s youth, this issue extends beyond one minister. It raises serious concerns about accountability and public confidence in democratic institutions.

These revelations come against the backdrop of a troubling pattern. In 2023, the Integrity Commission reportedly submitted a report naming six parliamentarians in illicit enrichment investigations that was never tabled. A second report submitted in 2024 has likewise not been brought before Parliament.

The Prime Minister recently stated that none of his parliamentarians was aware of such investigations. Jamaica now learns that Minister Wheatley was allegedly among those under Integrity Commission scrutiny. Jamaicans, therefore, deserve answers. What did the Prime Minister know, when did he know it, and why was Minister Wheatley reappointed to Cabinet while these matters remained unresolved?

The PNPYO also rejects attempts to portray scrutiny of Minister Wheatley as an attack on his humble beginnings. The issue is not where anyone comes from, but whether those entrusted with public office meet the standards of transparency, accountability, and integrity expected by the Jamaican people.

The Prime Minister’s ability to credibly address this matter is further complicated by his own ongoing disputes with the Integrity Commission, making full transparency even more essential.

The PNPYO calls for:

• Minister Wheatley’s resignation;
• The tabling of all outstanding Integrity Commission reports;
• Full disclosure from the Prime Minister; and
• Stronger parliamentary oversight and accountability.

Jamaica’s youth deserve answers. They deserve institutions they can trust. Most of all, they deserve leaders who understand that public office is a public trust.