Yet another call is being made for Dr. Andrew Wheatley to step down from his Cabinet post or be removed by the Prime Minister.

This time, it’s from the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ).

The call comes in the wake of a report from the Integrity Commission and the recommendation for charges for various offences, including illicit enrichment.

Dr. Wheatley has refuted the allegations and will be seeking redress through the courts.

In a statement, the PSOJ noted that principles of governance, transparency, accountability, and integrity are fundamental to maintaining public trust, strengthening Jamaica’s reputation and supporting a stable environment for investment and sustained economic growth.

The PSOJ said allegations of this nature are understandably of significant public interest and underscore the importance of strong institutions and effective oversight mechanisms.

It said confidence in Jamaica’s governance framework is reinforced when matters concerning public accountability are addressed through credible, independent, and transparent processes.

Notwithstanding the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, the PSOJ said, given the nature of the responsibilities entrusted to Cabinet members, it wants the Prime Minister and Dr. Wheatley to give serious consideration to the appropriateness of Dr. Wheatley stepping aside from his ministerial duties until this matter is fully and conclusively resolved.

The organization stated that such a step, if taken, would serve to preserve public confidence, protect the integrity of the office, and reinforce the strength of Jamaica’s governance framework.

The PSOJ said Jamaica has made considerable progress in strengthening its governance architecture over the years.

It said it’s vital that this progress continues and that public confidence in institutions is preserved through consistent adherence to the principles of accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.