KINGSTON, Jamaica— Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs Marlene Malahoo Forte is rejecting what she describes as misleading suggestions in the public domain that she has indicated that the Jamaica Labour Party Government (JLP) has intention to target, victimise or malign civil or public servants who have personal political preferences.

Malahoo Forte in a statement on Monday, denied the allegations stating that it is not the intention of the government to clamp down on members of the civil service.

“A publication in the Jamaica Gleaner online platform dated July 21, 2025 which is entitled ‘JLP Gov’t to clamp down on politically driven civil servants’ does not accurately reflect the substance of my comments. To be clear, any suggestion that the Government is seeking to “clamp down on” or discriminate against civil servants is a gross misrepresentation of my remarks,” she said.

“My comment was centred on upholding the long-established principle that the public service must be politically neutral, professional, and focused on delivering quality service to the people of Jamaica. This is essential for ensuring that all Jamaicans, regardless of political affiliation, receive fair and efficient service from their Government,” she continued.

Malahoo Forte further noted that the government of Jamaica remains committed to empowering civil servants.

“This is clearly demonstrated by the implementation of the largest public sector compensation package in Jamaica’s history. The Jamaica Labour Party Government has also made the largest investment in capacity building and skills training through the Marcus Garvey post graduate scholarships and unlimited free online courses,” she said.

“This transformational investment improved the livelihoods of public sector workers and attracted and retained top talent in service to the nation. As the Government continues to modernise and transform the public sector, the focus remains on building a results-oriented, high-performing workforce. I have the utmost respect for our civil servants, many of whom work under challenging circumstances to keep the machinery of Government running smoothly. My remarks were never intended to cast aspersions on their professionalism,” she continued.

Minister Malahoo Forte noted that civil servants form a key part of the backbone of Government, and it is through their continued dedication and excellence that we will build a more efficient, equitable, and service-driven public sector.