(Jamaica Observer) Tough-talking attorney-at-law KD Knight is among those expressing happiness and joy at the shock announcement by Prime Minister Bruce Golding to step down as leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in November, and as head of Government soon thereafter.
Knight — called the ‘Star Boy’ of the recent commission of enquiry that sought to find out, among other things, if the Government acted improperly in the handling of the Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke extradition request by the United States, and the administration’s related contact with US law firm Manatt, Phelps & Phillips — was for several months the lead voice chanting for Golding’s resignation.
‘Pack your bags and go’, were the words Knight frequently directed at Golding at functions hosted by his Opposition People’s National Party (PNP), as well as in media interviews.
The former Cabinet minister, who held portfolio responsibility for national security and justice, as well as foreign affairs in previous PNP administrations, said that Golding had no choice, adding that his respect for the outgoing prime minister had increased based upon his latest decision.
“He has done the right thing,” Knight told the Observer yesterday on his way back from a PNP National Executive Council meeting held in the western tourist city of Montego Bay.
“He has still salvaged some decency. He has done what many said would have been the principled thing. Well-thinking members of the society will welcome this decision,” Knight said.
Knight, who also served as member of parliament for East Central St Catherine, said that Golding’s unwillingness to make key decisions would have contributed in large measure to his plan to quit.
“He did not do what he ought to have done because of his indecision. He is an indecisive leader, which cannot be good for us at this time,” said Knight.
“His lack of credibility and not being forthright have served as an albatross around the neck of the country,” said Knight, a PNP senator.
Knight had warned the JLP that if Golding did not pack his bags and leave the political scene as prime minister, he would again lead more protests to put pressure on him.
Knight instigated a PNP bus tour across sections of the island earlier in the year to protest the findings of the commission of enquiry which ruled that no one was to be held criminally responsible in the Coke extradition saga. Coke is now incarcerated in the US awaiting sentencing in relation to criminal activities committed in that country.
The PNP plans another bus tour for later this year.
