Mark Golding pledges action on SSL fraud scandal if elected
ABIGAIL BARRETT / Our Today
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Opposition Leader Mark Golding has vowed that a future government under his leadership will take decisive action to recover funds lost in the Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) fraud scandal, including those belonging to sprint legend Usain Bolt.
In a social media post, Golding criticised what he described as a “lackadaisical approach” by the current administration in handling the matter. He noted that all efforts would be made to retrieve the stolen money and hold to account those responsible.
“When we form government, no stone will be left unturned to chase down that money for Usain Bolt and the others,” Golding asserted. “We want the reports! We want the Kroll reports to see what has happened, and there must be a commission of inquiry into the regulatory failures that allowed SSL to operate unchecked for years.”
The SSL scandal, which came to light in early 2023, saw millions of dollars allegedly misappropriated from clients, including Bolt, whose account reportedly lost USD 12.7 million.
The widespread outrage has raised concerns about the integrity of Jamaica’s financial regulatory system.
Golding highlighted the need for transparency, calling for full disclosure of the investigation findings and stronger oversight to prevent similar occurrences in the future. He also stressed the importance of reassuring local and overseas investors that Jamaica is committed to protecting their assets.
“We are going to get to the bottom of it because we respect the people involved who have put their money in Jamaica. To the diaspora and others overseas, we need to send the signal that we take it seriously,” he said.
The opposition’s demand for a commission of inquiry adds further pressure on the government to address the issue.
The SSL fraud remains one of Jamaica’s largest financial scandals, with the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and law enforcement authorities continuing their investigations.
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