KINGSTON, Jamaica — Finance Minister Fayval Williams has described the call by the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) for the Government to overturn the appointment of Dennis Chung as the chief technical officer of the Financial Investigations Division (FID) as both reckless and dangerous.

“The proposal for the Government to insert itself into a meritorious process which included advertisement and interviews, and was conducted by the PSC (Public Services Commission), is both reckless and dangerous. This is a path which Jamaica should avoid. If the aforementioned is the approach to governance that any individual or organisation proposes to apply to the corridors of Government, Jamaicans should take careful note and reject this inclination,” Williams said in a statement on Friday.

Additionally, Williams said that characterising Chung as “just an accountant” demonstrates ignorance as it pertains to the competency and skill set required for the position.

“Those questioning should do a search that will indicate that to become the head of a Financial Investigation Division, you’ll need a …strong combination of education, experience and skills. Typically, this involves a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like accounting, finance, law, or a related area, along with at least seven to 10 years of experience in areas like auditing, financial analysis or investigations. Mr Chung possesses ample relevant education, experience and skills for this position. The selection process was transparent. The position was advertised. Candidates were shortlisted and interviewed. Mr Dennis Chung came out successful. We stand firmly behind his selection on the basis that due process was observed,” she said.