KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has “strongly rejected” the  recommendations of the Integrity Commission (IC) that the Financial Investigation Division (FID) and Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) examine his financial dealings.

The recommendations are contained in a 179-page investigation report into his statutory declarations which was tabled in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.

READ: Integrity Commission wants FID, TAJ to probe aspects of PM’s financial affairs

While the commission’s director of investigation ruled that no charges be brought against Holness for failing to declare four bank accounts during his statutory filings, the commission raised a litany of questions in relation to bond transactions and loans taken out by companies in which at least one of his sons is connected. Questions were raised about whether the companies were compliant with their statutory filings with the TAJ.

In a statement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Holness said “let it be known that I have complied with any obligation placed on me within the law. The company with which I am the directly associated is compliant and up to date with its tax filings”.

The prime minister declared that he has worked hard for what he possesses. “And I have worked hard, wisely and honestly to achieve whatever I have. I have never depended on the public purse”.

According to Holness, “the weaponisation of accusation of corruption is nothing new in politics, however, even the most sceptical onlooker must conclude that the handling of this matter, the time it has taken, and the public resources used to pursue it raise cause for concern on many levels”.

“While I will not pursue the view that this was politicised, I believe it is commonly agreed that the law governing the IC is in urgent need of revision. The current context of its operation does weaken its credibility, and we must do everything to ensure that the appropriate laws are in place to prevent the politicisation of the commission,” he said.