The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has raised concerns about governance issues stemming from the Integrity Commission’s investigation into the non-compliant Estatebridge Development Limited’s residential project at 2 Weycliffe Close, Beverly Hills, St Andrew.

The report, which linked Prime Minister Andrew Holness to the project, concluded that the company is developing the property outside the plans approved by the building authority.

The PNP, in reacting to the recent report, in a statement on Friday, December 13, claims that the government’s attempts to downplay the situation ignore critical points highlighted by the report, which implicate key governance bodies and the potential for conflicts of interest.

Key concerns raised by the opposition include:

Conflict of Interest: The opposition highlights that several critical agencies overseeing real estate developments such as NEPA, NLA, NWC, HAJ, and UDC fall under the Prime Minister’s ministerial portfolio. Moreover, both the Prime Minister and his wife are personally involved as investors in real estate development…. The Opposition argues that this creates an untenable situation for potential conflicts of interest.

Prime Minister’s Involvement in Estatebridge: It is noted that the Prime Minister’s personal company, Imperium Investments Holding Limited, held shares in Estatebridge when the necessary building approvals were sought. This, the Opposition argues, underscores the need for the Prime Minister to divest himself of ministerial responsibilities over agencies that might interact with his private business interests.

Transfer of Property to Estatebridge: Despite the Prime Minister’s claim of no connection to Estatebridge, the Opposition points to the fact that the development property at 2 Weycliffe Close was transferred by the Prime Minister’s offshore company, Admat Incorporated, to Estatebridge “by way of gift,” without any financial exchange. The opposition questions why Admat would give away a significant asset if there were no connection between the Prime Minister and the developer.

Approval and Enforcement Issues: The opposition is also concerned about the approval process for the development, suggesting that the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) was compromised during the previous administration. They urge that investigations into the approvals should proceed without political interference.

The opposition is calling for greater transparency, accountability, and compliance with the Standards of Cabinet Conduct. They believe the Prime Minister should step down from his ministerial roles related to entities that could be affected by his private investments.

The opposition insists on full cooperation with the ongoing investigations and calls for a resolution free from political influence.

READ: Company associated with Prime Minister breached building laws-IC report

READ: JLP condemns Integrity Commission’s ‘unwarranted attacks’ on Prime Minister Holness

READ: ‘I’m being targeted’: Andrew Holness’ responds to latest Integrity Commission report