KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches (JUGC) is urging Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Andrew Wheatley, to step aside or be removed from the Cabinet following findings by the Integrity Commission that he should face charges linked to alleged illicit enrichment and other offences.

In a statement issued Thursday, the church group said the issues highlighted in the commission’s report, including concerns about possible tax non-compliance and recommendations for criminal charges, raise serious questions about accountability, transparency and integrity in public office.

The JUGC argued that public officials are expected to maintain the highest standards of conduct and argued that the allegations against Wheatley could undermine public confidence in government.

The group also pointed to comments made by Prime Minister Andrew Holness in August 2023, when he reportedly stated that no member of his political party had been notified of an illicit enrichment investigation. However, the Integrity Commission’s report indicates that Wheatley was served with a notice on May 18, 2022, informing him that he was under investigation.

According to the JUGC, the apparent inconsistency between the prime minister’s statement and the commission’s findings requires further explanation. The group said Jamaicans deserve clarity on what was known, when it was known and whether appropriate disclosures were made.

The church body maintained that Wheatley should step aside while the matter is being addressed, emphasising that doing so would not constitute an admission of guilt but would help preserve the integrity of the Cabinet and sustain public trust.

“If Dr Wheatley chooses not to step aside, the prime minister should relieve him of his ministerial responsibilities,” the JUGC said.

The organisation described the situation as a significant test of Jamaica’s commitment to accountability, integrity and equal standards in public life, and called on national leaders to act with courage, wisdom and moral clarity.

Noting that Wheatley has not been convicted of any offence, the JUGC said its concerns are based on recommendations and findings contained in the Integrity Commission’s report.

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