Chairman of the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation, KSAMC, Mayor Andrew Swaby has defended the newly formed Advisory Committee, highlighting the expertise of its members and the urgent need for independent oversight in local governance.

The committee was formed last month in response to the absence of a Local Public Accounts Committee, LPAC, a body required under the local governance laws. 

Mayor Swaby explained that the absence of the LPAC caused a significant void in independent oversight, and this had to be addressed.

He said the new advisory committee is not a replacement for the LPAC, but a proactive step to ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.

He added that the diverse expertise of the advisory committee reflects his belief in bipartisan governance.

KSAMC Chairman, Mayor Andrew Swaby speaking at yesterday’s meeting of the corporation.