Jamaica in US talks on transit of deported third-country nationals as integrity report targets minister

Jamaica is negotiating with the United States over a proposed memorandum of understanding that would see the island receive non-Jamaican nationals deported from American soil, process them locally, and arrange onward transfer to a third territory or their home countries. The Jamaica Gleaner reported on June 16 that terms were outlined in a document linked to the United States Embassy in Kingston. The public learned of the arrangement through that reporting rather than a government announcement.

Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang confirmed talks the same day. He said the framework is not binding, Jamaica may refuse individual transfers, only non-criminals would be considered, and no movement would occur until operational procedures are finalised. He maintained Jamaica's sovereignty has not been compromised. The memorandum has not been released.

Jamaicans for Justice issued a statement calling for strong human rights safeguards. Executive director Mikuel Jackson said Jamaica must consider whether it could become complicit if the United States routes people who cannot safely return home, including asylum seekers facing persecution over political views or within the LGBTQI+ community. He raised questions about housing, length of stay, onward movement, and constitutional due process for persons who would fall under Jamaican custody once the United States relinquishes responsibility. Opposition spokesman on national security Fitz Jackson said the opposition had not yet been briefed.

In Parliament, the Integrity Commission tabled a report alleging that Dr. Andrew Wheatley, minister without portfolio for science, technology and special projects and MP for St. Catherine South Central, held assets disproportionate to lawful earnings from 2010 to 2022, made false statements in statutory declarations, and failed to provide information requested by the director of information and complaints. Excerpts state he did not fully explain how he acquired certain assets and omitted holdings from declarations in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2021. Wheatley resigned from cabinet in 2018 amid Petrojam procurement controversy, was described as less than truthful in a 2020 commission report on Petrojam, and saw a judicial review application refused by the Supreme Court before his reappointment in September 2025. Political analyst Germaine Barrett said the commission has recommended prosecution and that Prime Minister Andrew Holness may need to ask Wheatley to step aside pending clarity.

Separately, as World Blood Donor Day was marked on June 14, the Western Regional Health Authority confirmed an islandwide blood shortage. Donor organiser Odin Black said western supplies sit between very low and low, with high crime driving demand for trauma care and leading to postponed surgeries and longer hospital stays. Eligible donors aged 17 to 60 who weigh at least 110 pounds can contact 512-5180 to arrange drives.