November 2, 2026

JCTU demands proof: PM must name public sector ‘saboteurs’ or withdraw claim

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness is being challenged to produce evidence to support his allegation that public sector workers are deliberately sabotaging the Government’s policies and recovery programmes.

The Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU), which issued the challenge, warned that the allegation unfairly casts suspicion on thousands of public officers.

Dr. Holness made the comment during a special press briefing at Jamaica House last Tuesday.

In a statement, the JCTU demanded that Dr. Holness substantiate his claims through the appropriate channels or withdraw them.

The trade union body insisted that accusations of deliberate wrongdoing should not be levelled against the public sector workforce without identifying those allegedly responsible.

It argued that the use of the word ‘sabotage’ carries serious implications, as it suggests deliberate interference rather than administrative delays, bureaucratic inefficiencies or weaknesses within the public service.

According to the Confederation, the Prime Minister’s remarks effectively placed every public officer under suspicion, including clerical workers, engineers assessing damaged infrastructure, social workers processing relief applications and nurses providing care in affected communities.

The JCTU warned that such allegations could undermine workers’ morale at a time when the country needs its public servants to play a critical role in the national recovery effort.

The Confederation also pointed to the Constitution of Jamaica and the Public Service Regulations of 1961, which it said provide established procedures for addressing misconduct within the public service.

It maintained that these mechanisms exist to ensure that allegations against public officers are investigated and dealt with fairly, in accordance with established procedures.