KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on the Government to consult fully with the church and civil society before bringing its proposed legislation governing nonprofit organisations to Parliament, amid what it says are serious concerns that provisions affecting the collection of tithes and offerings could expose church leaders to criminal liability.

The PNP shares the concerns raised by churches across the island, including reports that faith leaders were sidelined in discussions on the Charities Act.

In a statement on Friday, the PNP said for generations, the church has been among Jamaica’s first responders, feeding the hungry, sheltering the vulnerable, running schools and restoring hope in communities.

The statement noted that any law that treats the faithful act of giving as a potential offence risks weakening that vital work.

“The church is not the enemy of good governance. It is one of our strongest partners in nation-building,” said Opposition Spokesperson on Social Protection and Social Transformation Dr Angela Brown Burke. “Legislation of this magnitude must be shaped with the people it affects, not imposed upon them.”

The PNP noted that nonprofit organisations are already struggling under the burden of increased compliance requirements, with many small congregations and community groups lacking the staff, funds and technical support to meet existing obligations.

“We support transparency and accountability, and we recognise Jamaica’s international obligations,” Brown Burke added.

“But the response must be proportionate and practical. We invite the Government to sit with the Opposition, the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches and civil society to review the specific details of this Bill before it reaches Parliament.”

The PNP stressed that it stands ready to work constructively towards legislation that protects the integrity of our financial system while safeguarding freedom of worship and the church’s ability to serve.