'Performance Boss' Peter Bunting defends stewardship

Declaring himself as still the 'performance boss', Peter Bunting defended his stewardship as a three-term Manchester Central Member of Parliament.

Bunting is to be challenged by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP's) Rhoda Crawford in the September 3 general election.

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Speaking with reporters after being nominated in Mandeville, Bunting rejected suggestions that he has neglected his constituents because he has been too busy with other responsibilities. 

"I have been recognised by independent third parties as being one of the most accountable MPs. I have the highest ranking by the Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal," Bunting said. 

Meanwhile, Bunting has shrugged off criticisms about corruption dogging his former administration following the scandal at the Manchester Parish Council.

Three former officials and two others were recently convicted in the $400 million fraud scheme at the council.

The crimes happened while the People's National Party was in government with Bunting serving as National Security Minister. 

But Bunting said he was instrumental in establishing the agency that brought the convicts to justice. 

"Under my watch and under my establishment of MOCA (Major Organised Crime and Anti corruption Agency) as Minister of National Security, the investigation started then and justice followed its course," he told reporters.

Bunting said there was no guarantee that corrupt acts would end, but insisted that he has empowered agencies to do proper investigations and bring successful prosecutions.

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