Golding questions private sector stance amid FID controversy
Published:Friday | June 6, 2025 | 10:13 AMAlbert Ferguson /Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Opposition Leader Mark Golding has criticised sections of the private sector for supporting the appointment of Dennis Chung as head of the Financial Investigations Division (FID), calling it inappropriate and riddled with potential conflicts of interest.
Chung is at the centre of mounting controversy. His appointment comes amid the Integrity Commission’s referral of Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness to the FID for investigation into his financial affairs amid uncertified statutory declarations.
Speaking at a People’s National Party town hall in Montego Bay, St James, Golding described the appointment as “untenable”, praising civil society groups that have raised the red flag.
“I am very happy that non-government and non-political organisations have come forward and said, ‘This is untenable. This does not look right. It should not stand’,” said Golding.
The opposition leader also raised alarm about what he described as Chung’s law-enforcement experience and relevant qualifications in combating financial crime.
“Although he is an accountant, [Chung] has no law-enforcement experience, no particular qualifications in the area of fighting financial crime, money laundering, terrorism financing,” said Golding, in pointing out what he sees as disqualifying features.
Golding chastised private-sector figures for remaining silent or supportive of the appointment.
“I am very disappointed that there are some leaders in the private sector who seem to think there is nothing wrong with what has taken place,” said Golding. “I suggest that they reconsider the matter and look at the facts.”
POLITICAL INTERFERENCE
He warned of increasing political interference in key institutions and criticised the private sector’s willingness to “turn a blind eye” in exchange for influence.
“This isn’t about politics. It’s about protecting the integrity of our institutions and the future of good governance in Jamaica,” he added.
Two leading watchdog groups, National Integrity Action (NIA) and the Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal (JAMP), have also raised red flags, demanding full disclosure of the selection process and appointment criteria.
NIA argued that Chung’s dedication to service and Jamaica is unquestionable but that his previous statements on the Integrity Commission’s report after its Holness probe raised legitimate questions regarding his objectivity.
The JAMP acknowledged Chung’s credentials as a chartered accountant but noted a lack of experience in investigating financial crimes. The group stressed that the FID head must be qualified to assess investigations, direct legal strategy, and command public confidence.
The JAMP is urging the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service to disclose the job requirements and selection process used and to consider legislative reforms to ensure competency standards for this critical role.