Money Laundering?

Attorney Harold Brady has placed on the table the real possibility of money laundering activities being involved in the Manatt, Phelps & Phillips (MPP)/Dudus Extradition affair.

It has now been revealed that MPP insisted that any arrangement had to be on the basis of a government initiative and a paid retainer. Hence Brady had to assume the position/authority as a Consultant to the Government of Jamaica (GOJ). Of equal importance the retainer and subsequent payments would have had to be consistent with the contract being with the Government of Jamaica.

Thus the payments could not appear to be made by either a private individual or the Jamaica Labour Party. This is so because neither had any contract with MPP. The only entity that had a contractual relationship with MPP was the GOJ (albeit throughout Harold C. Brady - its Consultant.) To be acceptable to and accepted by MPP, the payments had to appear as emanating from the GOJ.

Brady alleges that PM Golding, after being informed of MPP conditions agreed to such and delegated Minister Vaz to handle all the "financial implications".

It is critical to read carefully Brady's allegations on this score, noting the sections that have been capitalized for emphasis.

"Consequently, our client is unaware of the mechanics of the payment of the MPP retainer WHICH WAS NOT HANDLED either BY HIS LAW OFFICE or by him personally"

Certain questions are unavoidable:

• What were the so-called "financial implications" involved?
• If neither Brady nor his office handled the "mechanics of the payment of the MPP retainer", did Daryl Vaz handle such?
• What were the so-called  "mechanics of the payment"?
• Were the payments to MPP laundered through any GOJ agency?
• Were the payments made by cheque or wire transfer?
• A news release stated that Brady & Co. had paid the sum of US$15,000.00 in order to bring closure to the arrangement with MPP.  Was such in furtherance of PM Golding's instructions "to ensure, as best as possible, that the Government did not appear to be involved"?

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Political Shrapnel

The political explosion occasioned by Brady's letter bomb - published in the Gleaner, Tuesday October 7, 2010 - has sent shrapnel with extreme prejudice in the direction of Prime Minister Golding and Minister Daryl Vaz. Brady has made some damming allegations - the truth of which must be ascertained.

There is enough defamation to go around with all contenders being offered generous proportions. However, it is political credibility that takes center stage.

Hence, we highlight the political shrapnel:

• Brady took instructions only from Prime Minister Golding. Thus for all intents and purposes, Bruce Golding was Brady's client.  
• The instructions centered on attempting to resolve the political issues raised by the extradition request for Christopher "Dudus" Coke.
• The employment of Manatt, Phelps and Phillips (MPP) was only possible if this was a Government of Jamaica (GOJ) initiative and under a paid retainer.
• Brady reported such in full to Prime Minister Bruce Golding.
• The Prime Minister agreed to the terms of engagement stipulated by MPP with the added condition that attempts be made to "ensure, as best as possible, that the Government did not appear to be involved."[emphasis added]
• Minister Daryl Vaz was delegated to handle all the "financial implications." (What the hell does that mean?)
• Both PM Golding and Minister Daryl Vaz were made aware of MPP pre-conditions and were central to the hatching of the conspiracy to deceive.

 The situation remains the same GOJ in 3D.

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Brady's Letter Bomb

Noted Attorney-at-Law Harold C. Brady has finally disclosed intimate details about the MPP/Dudus Extradition affair. The allegations are directed at Prime Minister Bruce Golding and Minister of Information Daryl Vaz who according to Brady must either be daft or needs his head examined.

Read the details of Brady's Complaint

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Lilac Alert

Some readers will be familiar with the euphemisms used by the GOJ in recent times. They range from aliens to the truth, at variance with the facts, inconsistency, incompatible, irreconcilable to half truths and mis-communication. They are just lies - no matter the spin.

Jamaicans have been subjected to a number of lies in recent times. We are tired of the GOJ lies.
Ja Cynic maintains in Daft Conspiracy that:

"The GOJ's responses have been confusing, convoluted and unconvincing.  They have conceded and confessed only when confronted with the facts."

However, we continue to be watchful.  Hence we have issued the Lilac Alert.

Minister of Justice in a signed affidavit indicated that she had informed the PM that she having considered all the factors had decided to sign the authority to proceed.

The actual situation is complicated by the fact that:

• The AG and Minister of Justice is one and the same.  
• The AG is the principal legal advisor to the cabinet.
• The Minister of Justice in such matters only acts on behalf of the government.
• As the PM had indicated to Parliament, that if the Minister dares to exercise her discretion independently and at variance with the position of the Cabinet, then the Minister must tender her resignation.
• From the very outset the PM has given the Parliament and the public the impression that he was the central player in this extradition affair.
• In a parallel initiative by persons within the JLP, the party leader sanctioned the scheme. (The party leader of the JLP is one and the same as the PM of Jamaica and Bruce Golding).
• There is a challenge before the court intended to review the circumstances under which the Minister of Justice exercised her discretion. Was she instructed by the PM to sign the relevant papers?
• The PM may have provided the answer in his national broadcast to wit;

"I wrestled with the potential conflict between the issues of non-compliance with the terms of the treaty and the unavoidable perception that because Coke is associated with my constituency, the government's position was politically contrived. I felt that the concepts of fairness and justice should not be sacrificed in order to avoid that perception. In the final analysis, however, that must be weighed against the public mistrust that this matter has evoked and the destabilizing effect it is having on the nation's business. Accordingly, the Minister of Justice, in consideration of all the factors, will sign the authorization for the extradition process to commence."
Source: Jamaica Infomation Service

• The PM has stated repeatedly that the GOJ has never refused the extradition request. Hence the GOJ merely delayed its approval until more information/clarification was provided.

It is clear that the US authorities made "something more" known to the PM.  Whether the PM has shared that lubrication with other members of the cabinet is entirely a different matter. What is evident is that he has not shared that critical information with the public.  We have always maintained that the driving force is the self interest of the JLP - the us and not Dudus.

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SAY WHAT!

• Bruce Golding has always given the impression that he is deliberate and considered in his utterances. He prides himself as a student of the law.
• Golding is know for his lofty expressions that as Leader of the Opposition found resonance amongst those desperate for the replacement for Sister P.
• Thus his performance on the BBC's Hard Talk is a classic -- and not for his announced criterion for inclusion in the cabinet.
• Well listen to the words of Prime Minister Bruce Golding again.  There are very interesting gospels on Tivoli, garrisons, corruption and governance. It is Bruce at his best.

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GOJ in 3D

Lying takes place on a number of levels and dimensions. Politicians are expected to be adept at the art and skill in so-called spin. Government spin serves no purpose unless it has a modicum of credibility. Sadly this JLP administration are either daft or in need of head examinations or both.

The GOJ is in 3D -
deep do do ;
dunce, duncer and duncest;
deceptive, despicable  and dirty.

Did you ever think that "persons within the JLP" could have hatched such a plot without the knowledge, participation and approval of the party hierarchy? Such would of necessity involve at the minimum the party leader, General Secretary and the Treasurer and/or the Deputy Treasurer.

Is then any wonder that the published Samuda's findings failed to mention the role played by the Party Leader in "sanctioning" the hiring of the US law firm Manatt, Phelps and Phillips  (MP&P)? But even more damning is the fact that MP&P would not have been able to engage US officials of the State Department and the Justice Department in talks concerning the extradition treaty between US and Jamaica unless MP&P was officially representing the GOJ.

Was Golding so informed and did he sanction the ruse?

So Brady signed as "Consultant to the Government of Jamaica" was not in any way an error.  The clause in the contract was very specific to avoid any misrepresentation of the authority under which Brady was operating.  The Consultant designation was an essential element of the conspiracy within the JLP to effect lobbying efforts in Washington.

There are more questions being raised by Golding's belated confession.

• When exactly did Golding sanction the initiative?
• Did Golding receive progress reports and issue directives on the initiatives?
• Who were the other co-conspirators within the JLP?
• How were funds amassed - voluntary contributions and/or gentle extortion?
• Were the financial contributors themselves beneficiaries of government contracts/state largesse ?
• Since Christopher "Dudus" Coke would have been the main beneficiary of such main lobbying efforts, what measures were instituted to monitor his participation - financially or otherwise?
• Did the party leader inform the AG, Minister of Justice and the Minister of Foreign Affairs about this parallel political initiative?

The GOJ continues in 3D - denial, desperation and damnation.

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Close Encounters: 00-50 H B

Well you all thought that the political scenarios in the Dudus Extradition Affair (DEA) and the Brady Factor (BF) were out of some B class Hollywood script.

Here is the pre-release:

Now the latest scene is entitled Brief Social Encounters . It has nothing to do with Sex in the City but mainly with 007 0050 HB in Washington. 

Can you imagine a chance encounter with 0050 HB and Ronald in Washington? Invitations are issued, some are declined but some are accepted. Sounds familiar?  So we all just get along - socially over drinks.  Such a game is employed by those involved in courtship - not of the judicial kind.

But the scene has been played out before, starting at the Norman Manley airport in Kingston, Jamaica.  There was a chance meeting between 0050 HB and Dougie both on their way to Washington on parallel mission. Agent 0050 HB invites Dougie to get familiar with some Washington lobbyists - the same ones that would having drinks with Ronald. But having made social acquaintances, Dougie initially refuses a gratuitous offer but is later convinced that his newly made acquaintance should accompany him to his close encounter with US State officials. Unlike Ronald, Dougie did not have any drinks.

There have been unconfirmed reports of other close encounters, those involving persons within the JLP and Agent 0050 HB. Reports are that such persons decided to undertake and finance an operation aimed at assisting the GOJ in resolving a treaty dispute it had with the USA.

Back at  HQ Branch, OBG is Commander-in-the-Dark with GS Sam-the-Sanctioner; and Thor is conveniently unaware. 

Who is Special Agent 0050 HB? A man with vast experience in International Law and Politics to assist in this regard. He is not daft, but deft in his management of such affairs and his invitations are not likely to be declined. He has successfully engaged not-too brief social encounters in the past. Some have received wide press coverage.

0050 HB is fully aware that he will have to sing and dance in this one. Such caberet performances cost a bag of money. 

Need an MC for your wedding? Special Agent  0050 HB is available.

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Lies, Damn Lies and Dunce Lies

A full statement has been released by Samuda on his findings re the Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Engagement by Brady and Co.

The nine point statement raises a number of questions.

Point one: Who are those "persons within the JLP" who approached Mr. Brady? If there was a treaty dispute between the US and Jamaica why is the JLP interfering in such?

Point two: What is Brady's vast experience in international law and politics ? Is there no one else in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in possession of such skills? Why not appoint Harold Brady Consultant to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs?

Point three: Why is Mr. Brady's firm retaining the services of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips to have discussions with relevant officials of the US government, in which the GOJ has no interest?

Point four: If the meeting between the Solicitor General and officials of the State and Justice Departments was arranged by the Min of Foreign Affairs and the US Embassy of Jamaica, on what basis would the Solicitor General seek to include an "observer" a couple hours before its commencement.

Point five: Who are the members of the team that accompanied the Solicitor General to that meeting? On what basis was the Solicitor General discussing with Manatt, Phelps & Phillips alternative approaches that have to be taken in similar treaty disputes with the US? Solicitor General Leys indicated that the meeting was arranged by Brady and was mainly introductory. This does not square with Samuda's findings.

Point six:  How did the Solicitor General obtain "the full approval of the State Department" to have a representative of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips attend the meeting as an "observer".

Point seven: If Samuda's findings are true then the Solicitor General is duty bound to tender his resignation by his acceptance of the suggestion by a firm: with which he had had no previous contact, did not inform him that they had already been retained by Brady & Co. and without more he invited them to "observe" discussions between the GOJ and officials of the government of the United States.

Point eight:  What is a brief social encounter? How does one arrange such with a representative of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips? In what capacity was Harold Brady acting when he issued an invitation to the Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade to attend a meeting at the State Department? Who attended that meeting? Is it mere coincidence that Dr. Ronald Robinson and Harold Brady were in Washington at the same time, similar to the chance meeting of Brady and Leys?

Point nine: Have "persons within the JLP" entered into any contractual arrangement with Manatt, Phelps and Phillips? Have "persons within the JLP" facilitated the payments of submitted invoices?

So persons within the JLP decided to assist the JLP government.  This apparently was done without the knowledge of members of the JLP who are also members of the cabinet.  What exactly was the interest of the JLP in this matter? Furthermore Manatt, Phelps and Phillips would have provided written reports of its meetings and positions reached with officials of the US state and justice departments. These would have been provided to Brady and Co. for the benefit of "persons within the JLP". Did those reports reach cabinet members within the JLP? 

So Bruce Golding was not informed of such dealings in his capacity of Prime Minister of Jamaica. Was he so informed in his capacity as leader of the Jamaica Labour Party? Why has it taken so long for members of the hierarchy of the JLP to admit that this initiative was conceived and hatched within the JLP?

And the cow jumped over the moon.

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Daft Con

There have been many cons.

First there was consultant negotiating a contract to have a US law firm establish contact with the US authorities.

The PM hastily concocted a response in parliament, but later conceded that there indeed had been some contact but no contract.

But that response was un-convincing and there was a call for concrete evidence of the correction. Such proved controversial as glaring inconsistencies began to emerge.

• Were the US authorities conned?
• Was there a conspiracy to deceive and defraud?
• Who will be convicted?
• Who will have to be consoled?

Soon nothing will remain concealed, for this matter can no longer be contained.  The JLP is in a conundrum as the matter is not being brought to a conclusion quickly and the political fallout seems to be contagious.

The contrast with the Trafigura Affair has crossed the political Rubicon. The PM appears confused; Brady may confess; Vaz has been confined.

The saga continues.

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The New GOJ Advertisement

Need an international event planner?


Need an M.C. for your wedding?


Need your head examined?


Need to replace a broken vase?


We have solid contacts in Kingston and Washington.


Consult: Sir Har Rolde
OPM (after hours )


Our motto: Knowing what we know, we never tell.

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Sam's Sanctions

Samuda, in his dual capacity as a senior minister of government and the General Secretary of the JLP, has been mandated to sanction Harold Brady. Yes; and the cow jumped over the moon.

What exactly has Brady done to warrant being any sanction being imposed on him? Brady is not a member of the cabinet, so he cannot be sanctioned by any member of that august body.  Brady is said to be a card carrying member of the JLP, so the General Secretary can take disciplinary measures if the rules governing that party have been infringed. Have they and by whom?

So Sam the Sanctioner has a problem. How does he imposing sanctions on one who has been acting in the best interests of the party for donkey's years?

We thought it best to consider some sanctions:

• Brady to stand outside the gates of Jamaica House between the hours of 8am - 9am  and 4pm -5pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for two weeks with a loudspeaker saying, "I am sorry" once every five minutes. [Vaz the Minister of Information will monitor the event with the usual media coverage]
• Brady to write 50,000 lines "I am not a Consultant to the Government of Jamaica". Such must be in Brady's own handwriting and his signature affixed to the bottom of each page. [AG Lightbourne will ensure compliance and send certified copies to the US law firm Manatt, Phelps & Phillips]
• Brady to attend Vale Royal for breakfast on weekends, dressed in white shorts and to affix his name, address and signature to the visitor's protocol book. [PM Bruce will do the cooking]
• At the completion of the sanctions, Brady to throw a party and invite the usual posse. The occasion will taken to confer on Brady an OJ as a lasting and fitting sanction for his initiatives. [The OD - Order of Dudus = was ruled out]

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Credit Run Out

Source: Jamaica Observer 5.4.2010

US President William "Bill" Clinton in dealing with the Monica Lewinsky Affair stared right into the TV cameras, maintained eye contact and adopted the seriousness of a judge and said:

 "I did not have sexual relations with that woman."

We are yet to see any evidence of anyone who was willing to admit, either privately or publicly, that they had believed that statement.  

Jamaica is never far behind. We have our own President (of the Employer's Federation), another W.C. making this statement concerning the Chen Affair:

"I did not ask for an intervention and have no information that suggests that the Jamaican government has done so."  

We have not done a survey to assess the extent of the credibility of this statement.  However, some nagging questions refuse to go away.

• How were the details of Chen's visa revocation and subsequent actions by him and others on his behalf "leaked" to the media?
• Who was that impostor on TV giving "information" but not "seeking intervention"?
• If one makes a call to the fire department informing them of a raging fire, is that not also seeking an intervention?

Latest media reports are that Chen is still waiting for an official reply to this re-application for a US visa. 

Then we have no less a person than the PM of Jamaica, the Hon.Bruce Golding M.P. in stark and irreconcilable conflict with the prestigious US law firm, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips in respect of representation made to the US State Department and Justice Department. 

There is a disconnect; dem credit run out.

Clovis' cartoon in the Jamaica Observer speaks volumes.

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Mix Up & Blenda

So Manatt, Phelps & Phillips (MPP) has confirmed two things:

• It has been acting on behalf of the Government of Jamaica through GOJ's liaison Harold C.W. Brady of Brady & Co.
• That MPP ceased continuing to represent the GOJ through Harold C.W. Brady of Brady & Co. as of February 8, 2010.

That amendment was filed on March 18, 2010 - two days after pertinent questions were raised in Parliament eliciting and outright denial by the PM.

The country was told in no uncertain terms that the GOJ had never hired any consultant, law firm, person or entity to represent the GOJ in any discussions involving treaty obligations. It has turned out that the US law firm MPP was certainly under the impression that it was acting on behalf of the GOJ. Moreoever the US State Department and Justice Department were certainly under the impressions that in talks with MPP the law firm was acting on behalf of the GOJ.

Now that we have been informed that the now-disputed contractual relationship ceased as of February 8, 2010, certain interesting questions arise:

• When exactly did the now-disputed contractual relationship commence?
• Under what set of circumstances did MPP "cease activities on behalf of the Government of Jamaica through Harold C. W Brady of Brady and Co."?
• Which party initiated the cessation?
• What reasons were given?
• Did both parties formally agree to the cessation (in writing)?

• Was the outstanding balance of the agreed retainer ever paid?
• Did MPP act in pursuance of the contract after the September 18, 2009 invoice was settled?
• Are there any other invoices for services rendered by MPP which have been submitted and settled?
• What has happened to the written reports of the meetings conducted by MPP with the US officials in pursuance of the now-disputed contract?
• Does anyone expect Baby Leys to come to any other conclusion that Harold C. W Brady of Brady and Co.did not have the capacity to enter into contractual obligations with any entity as a representative of the GOJ? Hence, there was no contract between GOJ and MPP. Surprised?

MPP's notification of termination of contractual relationship with Government of Jamaica.

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Mistakes, Lies and Missed Tapes

Source: Jamaica Observer, March 23, 2010

Since the GOJ is reluctant to provide credible answers to some of the questions being asked in the Brady Factor which has complicated the Dudus Extradition Affair (DEA), we thought that "in the national interest" it was our patriotic duty to assist.

• Question:

Was the US government duped into thinking that Manatt, Phelps  & Phillips (MPP) represented the GOJ in the talks involving the  DEA.

• Answer: (Choose any or all)

No. The SG of Jamaica accompanied MPP  into the official talks on the issue.

No. Brady although not officially certified as "Consultant to the GOJ" retained the services of MPP who were instructed to engage US officials in such talks.

No.  Brady and Co. represented a Head of State (Prezi) of a state (Tivoli) within a state.

• Question:

Were the amounts paid to MPP as retainer and for services rendered sourced from illegal activities?

• Answer: (Choose any or all)

No.  The GOJ operates its own extortion scheme called the JDX.

No.  In Jamaica money has no taint, the US currency (called greenbacks) is the same official colour as that of the ruling party.

No. It is a time honoured policy of the JLP regime not to question the source of funds. In the 80's banks were instructed not to ask questions.

No. All activities undertaken within Jamaica are protected by the Constitution and have "rights" attached.

• Question:

Who were the ultimate beneficiaries of the lobbying efforts undertaken by MPP?

• Answer: (Choose any or all)

The GOJ. The whole cabinet is in danger if such initiatives are not successful.

The JLP; Dudus can sing.

The PM; Entry to Tivoli now restricted may be prohibited necessitating the finding of another constituency to represent.

Dudus; Not anxious to embark on a presidential visit at this time.

Brady; In line for an OJ.

• Question:

Is the GOJ embarrassed by the action undertaken by Brady - the unauthorized solicitation of MPP to act on behalf of the GOJ.

• Answer: (Choose any or all)

No. The GOJ has no relationship with MPP

No. The GOJ has no relationship with the US

No. The GOJ has no relationship with Dudus

No. The GOJ has suffered no such embarrassment for the JLP has only been in office for 2 1/2 years whereas the PNP has caused the GOJ great embarrassment for over 18 years.

No. Brady is not in the cabinet.

"When fools talk they think only fools are listening " - Hat tip to Lambert Brown - The Evening Edition, Radio Mona.

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Leys' Lullaby

Rock a bye baby,
In the treetop
When the wind blows
The cradle will rock

Douglas Leys the Solicitor General of Jamaica, in a meeting with US State Department and Justice Department facilitated the attendance of a member of a private US law firm into that official meeting. Hello!?

The SG had just recently a few hours before been introduced to the principals of the said law firm who were anxious to obtain an official brief to act on behalf of the GOJ.

The SG himself had refused the overtures of the said law firm and by his own admission outlined to them the procedure that had to be followed if and when they were to be engaged to act on behalf of the GOJ.

It therefore begs the question: Did the SG act most improperly in facilitating the attendance of a private US law firm at an official meeting between himself and the US authorities?

In so doing, the SG unwittingly gave credence to the impression gained by the US officials - who had previously met with representatives of the US law firm and were involved in discussions of the very same issue as the SG - that the US law firm was indeed acting on behalf of the GOJ.

What is even more difficult to understand is the rationale informing the SG's thinking that to have Brady - a Jamaican attorney attend the meeting would have been improper, yet saw no problem in having a representative from a US law firm (who had not been engaged by the GOJ to his certain knowledge) attending as an "Observer".

Leys was either naive or was "convinced/persuaded" to change his initial refusal of the gratuitous offer. Unknown to him, he was the one being introduced to the US officials.

So, the "Consultant" was not so authorized and neither was the "Observer" but the fact remains that the US law firm acted on behalf of the GOJ in its dealings with US officials as reported on the official websites.

Smoking gun and misty mirrors: Who will be held accountable? Who misled the PM? Who is politically dispensable? Who will be "separated" from their responsibilities?

In the end the DEA - Dudus Extradition Affair has been further complicated, if not compromised, by the FBI (now meaning From Brady's Intervention).

When the bough breaks,

The Cradle will fall

And Down will come baby

Cradle and all

Oops!

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"Tainted Money" - Politics

The headline in the Sunday Observer, March 21, 2010 Rich Jamaican Businessman under US Probe must be sending off alarm bells throughout the newly monied interests in Jamaica. Bangarang once again!

Recall the "tainted money" saga in the JLP's internal elections which saw the young turks gaining office. That eventually paved the way for Bruce Golding's return and the ousting of Seaga from the helm.

Then the general election 2007 which saw a very expensive campaign being waged by the Golding - led JLP for some two years. Money flowed from both foreign and domestic sources.

There was little or no concern expressed as to the nature or source of such funds.  The main focus was amount and flow.  UFO's including Cash Plus and Olint were involved. 

The end result was that the Golding-led JLP barely eked out a win (less than a 3000 vote margin) despite the massive injection of cash into its campaign.

Now there is the Brady factor and questions being raised as to the source of the funding to lobby US officials.  The FBI is reported as having an interest.

As if that was not enough, it has been revealed that the US has interests in those who have amassed enormous wealth under the JLP Government.  

• Could the same set of players have been involved to a greater or lesser extent in all these financially tainted activities?
• Has Jamaica become one of the world's leading money laundering facilities?
• Is this the classic case of dirty money and political power?

We are now having our dirty (and tattered) underwear hung out for the international public to view and smell.

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Bruce & Brady Bawl Out

Let us not confine our examination of this matter to the capacity in which Brady signed the agreement.  Let us assume that Brady was not acting as the "Consultant to the Government of Jamaica".

• Then who were the real clients of Brady and Co.?
• How much money was paid to Brady and Co. to effect such a deal with the US law firm and how were those funds sourced?
• Who were the real beneficiaries of the efforts undertaken  by the said US law firm?
• Was Brady just a "lubricated conduit" - to use the Prime Minister's own words?
• Did the GOJ play any role in advising Brady and Co. and/or the US law firm in this matter?
• If such initiatives were being undertaken in the USA with state officials and agents acting on behalf of the GOJ, then Jamaica's ambassador to Washington should have been aware of such meetings. Was Ambassador Johnson so aware?
• What role if any, did Ambassador Johnson play in this episode?
• Could any John Doe just walk into a prestigious US law firm and enter into an arrangement for that firm to act on behalf of a sovereign independent state without certified/official confirmation?
• Has the disputed contractual arrangement been terminated?

More Bawl Outs Coming.

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The Brady Factor

The Dudus Extradition Affair (DEA) has been complicated by what can be conveniently called the Brady factor.  Spin is unravelling; embarrassment is spilling all over the government; credibility is a casualty; the situation not only looks bad, but it stinks.

The Golding government needs to come clean. It is walking a vanishing line.  A number of questions remain unanswered:

•    Was Brady provided with written authority to enter into such an arrangement?

•    Did any government/ministry/department receive and respond to any request from the said US law firm regarding the authority of Brady to enter such arrangements on behalf of the GOJ?

•    Who were the individuals that accompanied the SG to meetings with officials of the US government?

•    Did Brady at any time meet with US officials regarding the DEA?

•    How many meetings did the US law firm attend in their capacity as representing the interests of GOJ?

•    Was the AG and Minister of Justice made aware of the occurrence and outcomes of such meetings?

•    Did the AG and Minister of Justice inform the PM and/or the cabinet of the occurrence and outcomes of any such meetings?

•    Did Brady inform the PM about the progress report of the US law firm"s representation on behalf of the GOJ?

•    Did the PM at any time instruct Brady on the direction/strategy to be employed in dealings with the US officials?

•    How much money was paid to the US law firm under the said arrangements and how were such funds sourced?

The Government's inept handling of this episode is turning out to be the newest quiz show: The Brady  Fact - or -???

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Bangarang on Broadway

A new musical is in the works. It's called "Bangarang on Broadway" - a Jamaican production with the local political crew.

The cast is multi-talented and some have never travelled abroad; whereas others have visited Washington ostensibly on government business.

The star is "Prezi" a shortman who garners much respect in his community and enjoyes a special relationship with the government of the day. He is wanted and the usual courtesies of a presidential visit are yet to be worked out. More detials are required before this is signed off.

The rising star is Brady Rex - one of great agility and a proclivity to dance and spin. He is not in the Cabinet; but is known to describe himself as a Consultant to the Government of Jamaica. He can sing and sports a wide repertoire ranging from oldies, rap, hip-hop and even a capella.

Travel to the US presents no problem because they are wanted to perform there.  Indeed the demand is so great that they may be forced to remain there for a very long time.

There is a slight problem confronting the organizers.  The men will be required to wear short pants. This is viewed as too high a price to pay for the continuous flow of US dollars that hve been promised.

Bruce being under stress has already secured the catering concession for the production.  Secuirty is not so tight; but no taping will be allowed.

No provision has been made for the US Ambassador to Jamaica or the proposed new Jamaica Ambassador to the US to attend.

"Revokees" will be given a discount on the entrance fee to the local production provided that they supply proof of recent embarrassment.

Jamaica to the world( but not to the US).

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"8 O'Clock Jamaica Time"

Those of you old enough will remember this political satire produced by Anthony Gambrill and others on the Jamaican political reality.

It was very amusing with notable Jamaican personalities being brilliantly portrayed to the delight of packed houses revelling in the political foibles.

One memorable performance was that of Harold Brady who portrayed Rex Nettleford. Brady, dressed in black leotards, spun and danced his way around the stage as if Nettleford had indeed choreographed himself in the role.  The voice and mannerisms were impeccably replicated. Brady was brilliant then with his twists and twirls. He was convincing as Rex Nettleford.  The audience applauded his performance and some returned to experience the act again and again.

Sadly Brady is still spinning and twirling his way albeit on a different stage.  The performance has not been credible.  There is no applause and the audience is flabbergasted. Hopefully there will not be a repeat.

There is another scheduled political satire being acted out: "Bruce-on-the-loose", "Bruce Gone to Pot", B.C.- Bruce Confused".

Unconfirmed reports are that the OCG is investigating ticket sales and casting procedures!

The Brady Contract

Brady's Spin

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Buying Time

The GOJ has "strategically released" detailed information concerning various points taken into consideration in the "Dudus affair".

This action by itself closes the option of going to the courts to have the matter resolved on the current request. The PM, AG, SG, Minister of Justice have held fast to their interpretation/application of the laws they have deemed relevant to the issue. That has been, and continues to be, a very public stand from which there can be no retreat without resignation.

The option of the decision being made by our own DPP, based on evidence supplied by Jamaican and US authorities, to press charges against Dudus in Jamaica is a luxury that the GOJ cannot afford. 

International mediation is very expensive and time consuming.  The outcome is dependent on the willingness of the contending parties to accept and implement the findings.  There are no guarantees that the issue will be resolved.

The solution that seems most likely is the issuing of a "superseding indictment" utilizing the regular channels and devoid of any bases of clarification/delay/rejection.

Irrespective of the option selected, Coke must have his day in court.  Unless he waives his rights, then this process should take two to three years to be exhausted.  That coupled with the precondition of his arrest would test severely the resolve of the GOJ/LP.

Consider the implications of such a timespan. In 2 1/2 years general elections are due!

Buying time involves hard currency, hard choices and hard consequences.

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Can Bruce Cook?

Source: Jamaica Observer - March 12, 2010

Clovis is my favourite cartoonist and I am not here defending his constitutional rights to a fair viewing.  He already has his day in The Observer.  This cartoon is based on the unprovoked admission by the Chief Servant as to the means he employs when under stress.

We have written on this. The Chief Servant got a scathing review from The Observer editorial for his unsolicited comical intervention that should have led to his visa being revoked instantly.

The PM must be under considerable stress from both local and foreign sources.  The Chief Servant is depicted as sweating profusely as a number of pots boil over.  Indeed it is the crisis in the kitchen and the cook appears overwhelmed. Perhaps he will resort to another locale to relieve the stress (sitting on the pot) or just go outside to light the kutchie not the duthchie.

Did I get it wrong? Bruce is prepared to pay the price for the spice.  But exactly what is being cooked up to serve on a now ever cynical public?

Given the messed up too salted - budget stew, the Air J curry fiasco, the scathing AA roastpork, Tweety bird cocktails, too sweet sugar deals and burned Lightbuns, it is clear that Bruce is no iron chef.

Operating with an overstaffed kitchen, the menu being offered is at best disappointing. Master cook Eddie did say he was not ready, for when he flopped he also flipped.

The question is unavoidable: Can Bruce cook?

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Knots in my Cabinet?

Bruce-on-the-loose must be appalled by the bumpy ride which cabinet and individual ministers have been experiencing over the past six months. For example:

• Audrey Flaw - repeated budgets and accompanying withdrawals.
• Tweety Bird - outburst on the granting of bail for alleged kidnappers.
• Ed AA Bartlett - scathing report by the OCG of misleading cabinet and misleading self.
• Lightweight - to sign or not to sign what is the answer PM?
• His Holiness - cabinet not considering political implications of tax measures.
• Shinehead - Edith just a haul and pull him.
• Dr. Cassava - Hill & Gully sugar divestment.

The" driva" is having a very rough ride - without "a lubricated conduit".  The "blinking bus" is in need of a mechanic as "the engine of growth" sputters along.  

"Technicalities" whether constitutional, contractual or extradition-al aside, the Chief Servant must be "hard talking" to himself: "knots is my cabinet?"

"Staring" is not enough. "Steering" is required. Can you hear me now? We are all listening. Play the tapes if you think you bad (gun salutes are illegal).

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Weapon of Mass Visa Revocation (WMVR)

It has been done before: it can be done again.  In this current age history is prone to be repeated with greater frequency and at much shortened intervals.

Politicians can make all the fanciful distinctions, example:
strains vs disagreements, engagement vs rift. The fact remains, USA is a superpower. Jamaica may just be a "pimple on the backside of progress".

Aside from Bolt, we have nothing unique and in worldwide demand. Reggae is now produced everywhere and the Japanese productions have aped an authentic vibe.

Small countries moreso those in the US backyard had better get used to the WMVR which has proved a very effective tool of applying pressure as it engenders widespread paranoia among the victim population.

Harbour any doubts you may wish but read about the Honduran experiece of just a few months ago.

US Hassles Honduran Businessmen

US Revokes Diplomatic, Tourist Visas of Honduran Officials

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DUD - US

The extradition debacle involving "Christopher "Dudus" Coke, is not so much about the notorious Tivoli mega-businessman with umbilical linkage to the JLP. 

It is primarly about the self-interests of leading JLP activists - some being cabinet ministers, some Members of Parliament, senators, prominent "persons" and others financial contributors.  It is for the JLP about "US"; not about "you", not about "them" but all about "US".

The real issue has been revealed:



Electronic Telephone Intercepts

• How many Members of Parliament had their telephones - private and business - tapped by the authorities?

• Over what period time were these "buggings" instituted?

• How were individuals/telephone numbers added or extracted from the lists?

• What has been done with the contents of the intercepts?

• Which authorities - local and foreign - have access to those wire tappings?

It is the self-interests of the JLP not to let the contents of those electronic telephone intercepts (ETI) be used as a basis for any extradition request or as evidence in any local or foreign court.  It is not about Dudus per se but the foundation of the extradition request. The JLP Government is mindful of setting precedent and a court adjudicating on the legality of the said intercepts.  It cannot take that risk.

In these "extradition treaty technicalities", the Tivoli don is merely a DUD.  Can you imagine the potential debvastation of those recordings of the conversations between "prominent persons" and the criminal network?  It would be off the Richter scale - a political earthquake triggering a tsunami of resignations (and arrests).

The US seems to know something about "US".  Can you hear me now?

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The Chen Rules (CR - VII)

In case you have not been keeping abreast of the happenings in Jamdown, there has been a very recent promulgation of a new protocol concerning the cancellation/revocation of a US Visa.  Such is to be referred to as CR-VII.

This is not to be confused with protocols surrounding "Chen-Chen" or that of "WC" although both share remarkable similarities with the new CR-VII.

• Rule 1 - Always let your driver wait until your flight has departed before exiting the airport environs.  The popular practice of depositing departing passengers and beating a hasty retreat is no longer prudent. It is hereby advised that budgetary allowances be made for a wait between 2-3 hours (longer if there are unintended delays in the car park. Such should increase substantially the revenue from this facility.
  
  
  
  
• Rule II - It is prudent to double check with immigration that your US visa is still valid just in case there has been a very recent update. Hence early morning departures are highly recommended since things may change as the day progresses.
  
  
• Rule III - Having cleared the Jamaican end there is no basis for comfort as your status may have changed before you reached the first port of entry in the USA. It is hereby advised that you visit the bathroom facilities strategically located throughout the terminal buildings before joining the long immigration queue.  Failure to heed this advice may be very embarrassing. There is absolutely no need to raise a stink.


• Rule IV - In case your intended journey has been aborted in Jamaica, it is advisable that you activate the following regimes (henceforth referred to as the total F). 


• F-O-B  (Friend of Bruce) Close associates of the ruling party whether original JLP, turn back JLP, NDM or just anti-Sista P who have actively and aggressively ensured the change are in this category. Political appointees will receive special consideration by the Chief Servant.
• F-O-P (Friend of Politician) This pertains to your local political representatives to whose election you have contributed financially or otherwise.
• F-O-D (Friend of Don) The local Don who had assisted you to obtain the visa in the first place.
• It is hereby recognized that only one category may need to be activated as the same individual may be involved in one or more of the others. 


• Rule V - Under no circumstances should you yourself make contact with the US embassy as they are not under any obligation to disclose the reasons for their action and you may be glad that they do not. Kindly use F-O-B, F-O-P or F-O-D instead.


• Rule VI - This new protocol has nothing whatsoever to do with any unsatisfied extradition requests or attendance of government officials at conferences aimed at establishing a regional grouping without the participation of the USA or Canada.  It must be recognized that the non-appointment of a USA Ambassador has in no way influenced this protocol save and except governmental communication must now utilize lower level channels.


• Rule VII - The janitor and policemen stationed at the US Embassy cannot handle any requests for explanations, irrespective of the bona fides of the requesting person.

It was thought prudent to issue this advisory as more cases are scheduled to become public. Air travel at this time to the US is not recommended for those who have acquired Don-manship status, total F's or beneficiaries of money laundermats.  

At this time applications are still being encouraged for  VISA and MASTER credit cards.

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Finsac Stop Order

FYI - Judgment of Mangatal J. - Order for Leave for Judicial Review

More anon

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Hypocrisy?

The JLP in Opposition roundly condemned the operations of FINSAC.  The charges were that:

• State funds were being used to bail out friends of the governing PNP;
• Selective secret criteria were being utilized to punish entrepreneurs who had been favourably disposed to the JLP; and
• FINSAC properties were being sold to foreigners at a substantially discounted rate whilst FINSAC owners were neither given statement of accounts nor allowed to re-purchase the FINSAC assets at a similar rate.

The JLP in its election campaign gained substantial political capital from its unrelenting attack on FINSAC and its promise to reveal the inner workings of such a diabolical plot which had resulted in the destruction of a budding entrepreneurial class of Jamaicans.

Lo and behold, the revealed list has so far included the names of two (2) senior Ministers in the JLP Government.  Confirmation has not been forthcoming concerning the extent of the amount owed and the amount written off.

Available information is that the figures regarding the extent of the waiver/stroke/forgiveness/write-off are grossly understated.  Furthermore that more Members of Parliament - past and present - are implicated. 

Time will tell as story come to bump. The JLP cannot have it both ways:

Criticizing the diabolical nature of the scheme (blatant and vulgar misuse of state power and state funds) yet its senior members - indeed cabinet ministers are in fact beneficiaries of the said scheme.

Chief Servant Golding should demand that such offending members of his cabinet either pay back the amount waived or have the appropriate deductions made from their salaries.

Consideration should be given to having a similar measure applied to all offending JLP members of the Upper House (Senate ) and the Lower House (House of Representative).

This is not a case of cock-mouth-kill-cock. It has more to do with credibility, confidence, sincerity and trust - all of which this government is diminishing at supersonic speed.

Political integrity demands no less.

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Full Disclosure

There can be no argument about the position of any adjudicating panel.  It must be in fact and in perception free of bias, conflict or compromise in the matter at hand.  There must not be even a whiff of bias. 

The FINSAC enquiry is not a trial.  It is a fact finding mission geared at unearthing the truth.  Many individuals are playing critical roles in this endeavour.  Questions are asked not only by members of the panel but also attorneys representing various vested interests.  Both panelists and attorneys play critical roles in determining the eventual outcome of the exercise. But are the attorneys themselves conflicted or compromised?  The public needs to know where each attorney stands in relation to FINSAC and the FINSACKED.  For example:

• Did any attorney, now appearing, work previously for FINSAC?
• Did any attorney now appearing, take steps to acquire any of the FINSACKED properties?
• Was any attorney now appearing FINSACKED?
• Has any attorney now appearing benefitted personally from the operations of FINSAC?

Let us have full disclosure of all the parties involved in this FINSAC enquiry.  If hands are dirty, then it is better to know the extent now than to be surprised later. Full disclosure does not pose any jeopardy to an attorney appearing before the enquiry. This is fundamentally different from the position of the commissioners. Clients have the right to employ an attorney of their choice. Their antecedents could affect the angle and manner of approach and the public has a right to know.

We need to put all the cards on the table in order to end the suss, speculation and rumours.

The hide and collide must stop.

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Bawl Out

There exists a listing of all beneficiaries of the FINSAC bail out.  This fact was revealed to the general public by the General Manager of FINSAC at the Commission of Enquiry.

So the list exists; it has been compiled; it is available, but only to a select few. Why?

The taxpayers of Jamaica have funded the operations of FINSAC.  Taxpayers have borne the gigantic financial burdens of the so-called meltdown.  Companies and selected individuals were bailed out.  They were given very substantial wavers, write-offs, loans forgiveness, blighs and turn blind eyes. Some were not: their properties were confiscated and sold to foreign interests at a song.  While some are still singing a jolly song, others are humming a dirge. 

But what were the criteria applied to select those for special treatment and those who were forced to the wall?

Which interests benefited from the forced sale of choice properties?

Did some beneficiaries their political connections to feather their nest?

Are there any members of this JLP Government who have benefited from special treatment  by FINSAC?

Are there PNP Members of Parliament - past and present - who are connected to entities that have been given a bligh by FINSAC?

Are there any legal firms or attorneys-at-law who have benefited from special operations by FINSAC?

What are the factors what precluded former owners from re-purchasing their seized businesses/assets at the same price offered to foreigners?

We need to know chapter and verse. Publish the names, connected parties, extent of the sums owed and the extent of the forgiveness by FINSAC.

Bawl Out those who got the Bail Out.

Let us all know those who have been accorded by the GOJ the order of the BO. It smells. Phew!

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The X - Factor

The Government is patting itself on its back for the self-declared success of its debt swap initiative, termed the Jamaica Debt Exchange (JDX).

It is being trumpeted that there has been a 95-99% "voluntary compliance". In any language "voluntary compliance" must be of one's own free will induced neither by threat or treat. 

The JDX was done in circumstances where the Government unilaterally set the rates and the degrees of the extension of maturity dates for the swapped bonds. Bond holders were threatened with illiquidity, taxation compliance oversight, termed greedy and characterized as unpatriotic - in short "rapacious capitalists" of the present.

There was no comprehensive analysis of the probable consequences for the Government itself.  It has been said that state agencies hold approximately 50% of the local debt stock. They were told to accept it - argument done.

Poor pensioners and holders of pension funds who had patriotically invested in Jamaica and indeed invested in a government which had earlier pronounced that it would not allow "constitutional technalities" to get in the way of its hold on power.  Now it is the turn of "contractual technicalities".  This regime will not shackled by contractual obligations either to its employees or its creditors. 

The attitude is vulgar: we cannot pay at the time stipulated or the rate of interest we had agreed. So this is it, take it or else.

Everything is now being contextualized as a pre-condition for an IMF agreement.  Hence, the indecent haste, opaqueness (as opposed to transparency) and prolific edicts (as opposed to consensus). 

Somehow the X in JDX does not mean exchange, but rather extortion. The miniaturization of the economy continues and revenues decline unabated. The Government has got it wrong (X), in what can be described as an X-rated intervention.

X marks the spot: not only on the ballot.

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Wobbles

"Wobbles" can be considered as attempted spin which has failed to achieve its objective and has in fact worsened the situation. It is worse than foot-in-mouth disease as it reflects rank stupidity of the progenitor and contempt for the intended audience.

What must be a classic is Charles Ross' contention that the $80 million budget is only an estimate of the overall cost of the enquiry and in any event is a very small figure, in the broader national context.

"The estimated cost is 0.01% of last year's [national] budget so it's really, in the grand scheme of things, not a huge burden. We were offered a rate of compensation and we accepted it. The compensation was not discussed at the time of engagement at all that was something that came when the administration was putting a budget together, we were offered compensation and we accepted it," RJR

This Rossian wobble rubs salt into a raw national wound:

• Is the estimate likely to be exceeded and by what percentage (since we are now into statistical importance)?
• What does the relationship between the estimated cost and last year's national budget have to do with taxed salt?
• What is the relationship between Mr. Ross' earnings from the Commission for a mere 70 days work and his full time remuneration from his private company?
• Who would not gladly accept $7.5 million for a 70-day appointment?
• That the "compensation was not discussed at the time of the engagement at all" raises the issue of Mr. Ross' appreciation of budgeting, negotiation and reasonable returns, in short financial matters.Then again, the innocent victim: St. Charles may be alluding to the timing of the discussions regarding the compensation to be paid.

Acting Constable Carey is beyond belief.

"I was not adversely affected by the Finsac situation. How does that make it unfair for me to inquire? In this case, I don't sit as a judge. I'm more like a policeman, investigating what went wrong."Jamaica Observer

In a sense Carey is correct: no sitting judge of the Court of Appeal receives $15 million for 70 days work.  So he is not sitting as a judge. But no policeman in Jamaica - not even the imported variety - has ever received such extortionist and unconscionable packages. So he is not sitting as a policeman.

But Carey is not even sitting as a Governor of the Bank of Jamaica.  Lattie had to work right throughout the year after gaining much experience for his compensation package (and he was fired for it).

If Acting Constable Carey is roasting, then such practice ought not to be tolerated by the JCF. Then again, was there not a report some time ago of someone strategically placed in the JCF? That bogus policeman  undertook special assignments beneficial to the special interests.. He was an imposter.  Nuff said.

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Run With the Bag

The outrage resulting from the revelation of the compensation packages involved in the FINSAC enquiry has  been widely reported in the Jamaican press. Radio Jamaica (RJR), TVJ, CVM, Hot 102, The Gleaner, The Jamaica Observer - all have reported this debacle. Nevermind the report in the Sunday Herald. This is shame and scandal, with or without familial ties.

"Value-for-Money" - that is a well known standard form response by the government for the unconscionable, extravagant and extortionist compensation packages that are now becoming a vexatious characteristic of this JLP regime.

The Bruce Golding-led JLP has never been "value for money".  Colossal sums were spent on a two year campaign only to win by less than 3,000 votes. The Bruce Golding-led government has carried on the same wanton abuse of money - this time with government revenue (and not private funding, the UFO's being exhausted).

• What is likely to be the final outcome of this so-called FINSAC enquiry given the undue reliance on memory? 
• Would not a forensic audit have provided a more reliable and accurate account of how the money was spent/lost and decisions arrived at in the particular circumstances?
• Is there not an appearance of a conflict of interest where the legal counsel to the commission and the attorney marshalling the evidence are members of the same private law firm?
• The budget is $79 million for approximately 70 days. How does this compare with the remuneration packages of the fired governor of the Bank of Jamaica and Hill's sweet deal?
• Is the daily rate approximately $1 million applicable to any part of a day or is it adjusted pro rata given the frequency of aborted sittings? 
• What mechanisms are in place to minimize the likelihood of overruns, resulting in the commission sitting in concrete?
• The commission is expected to produce a report.  What happens next? How will those who have been adversely affected by state action be compensated? Is there any real possibility of redress or is this merely an exercise to fodder an election campaign?
  

In the end ( whenever that is) there is likely to be no action; not even a bag-a-mouth but costing the taxpayer a bag-a-money. This has given new meaning to "run-with-it". $216,000.00 per day must be a good roast for a retired anything.

"Value-for-money" is an assessment of outcomes - not of promises or expectations.

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Tailor Needed

Jamaica is a land of many claats.  As you mess with someone you are likely to be told about your claat. Those more skilled can reel off the different types with the minimum of provocation.

We need to tell this government about it claat. It is talking out of not two but at least six sides of its mouth.  The various utterings not only are contradictory, they just do not make sense. It is not spin - that is an art and must have some degree of credibility.  It is unabashed lying: plain red-faced deceit.

But the government is either incompetent or simply does not care.  It bungles along - goofing here, there and everywhere. Faced with a mockery of government, this amateurish farce must be draped up and told some choice words. We have to vent for we are vex!  To date, Bruce Golding has been an unimaginable disappointment.

Speculation abounds as to the reasons for such a dismal performance record. Yes, there are severe external pressures exerting devastating consequences on our economy.  Yes, the PNP  made a significant contribution to our vulnerability to such shocks.  But the JLP has assumed the reins of government since September 2007.

Maybe we were desperate.  Sister P and her posse were just not cutting it. By contrast, the Bruce Golding-led JLP seemed promisingly brilliant. We wished to see an image of emperor Bruce clothed in the finest of garments (and bling) bearing gifts (jobs, jobs and more jobs).  An optical illusion if ever there was one.

Telling this government about its claat may just be temporary personal relief. The CS himself needs to adopt a claat approach by wheeling and coming again.

• CS, you need to cut some claat in more ways than one. Indeed you may have to tell some of your friends and foes about theirs when you send them packing. You have to cut your suit to fit your cloth.  If the fabric has shrunken, or is just not as expansive as you would have hoped, then you must cut and carve. From ministers, ministries and civil service - if the revenue is not there, then adroitly cut the services being provided by government.  The purpose of the civil service is to provide service, not jobs. 
  
• With a seemingly intractable crime problem, we need for a start to double the complement of the police force. Whilst at the same time introducing a variety of new skills and technology.  Some separated from positions in the civil service could find jobs in an enlightened organization honed in a national effort to reduce crime.
• Taxation packages are easy for a vision-less regime. Failure to achieve targets beget more and increased initiatives; ultimately yielding similarly frustrating results. Hello CS - people do not work just to pay taxes.  Freeze - and - tax has never been a forumla for growth and development.  The entrepreneurial spirit has to be stimulated, facilitated and rewarded.
• CS, Since you cannot drive, try tailoring - cut some claat nuh!
  

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