‘Empty promises’ says Opposition Leader of PM’s announcement to end bureaucracy
Vanassa McKenzie / Our Today
Opposition Leader Mark Golding’s says Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ recent announcement to modernise Jamaica’s bureaucracy and reduce government inefficiencies is yet another empty promise.
Golding questioned the sincerity of Holness’s promise, noting that it is similar to his 2016 promises to have fixed election dates put in the constitution and to hold a grand referendum to settle what he calls outstanding national issues within his first 100 days in office.
Golding further dismissed the announcement as hollow, pointing to the government’s track record, particularly the underachievement of the Economic Growth Council’s goal of 5 per cent annual growth.
Golding also criticised Holness’ announcement of a tax discount on electricity consumption, arguing that the reduction would not benefit most Jamaicans who consume less than 150 kWh per month—already eligible for similar reductions introduced under former Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller.
“The truth is that their very poor track record shows that the government does not have the capacity to deliver the reform required to achieve an efficient bureaucracy,” Golding said, adding, “This is not a task that the private sector believes can be of much assistance with.”
Instead, Golding called for genuine leadership capable of transforming the energy sector to reduce electricity costs more broadly.
In regard to craft vendors, he expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s measures to assist craft vendors, arguing that a “meagre break” on market fees does not address the real challenges they face. He called for a level playing field for craft vendors to do business.
Comments