2 of 3 Jamaicans sent from USA to Eswatini say they don’t want to return to Jamaica

Two of three Jamaicans who were sent from the United States of America to Eswatini have reportedly indicated that they do not wish to return to Jamaica, at this time.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said contact was made with the 2 men recently.

Portfolio Minister Kamina Johnson Smith, explained that the Ministry received an official report from the Consulate General of Jamaica at Miami following a telephone call initiated by one of the men, who was accompanied on the call by his attorney.

A second Jamaican national subsequently joined the call.

During the discussion, the men were advised of the consular assistance available to them and of the Government’s readiness to facilitate their return to Jamaica.

They were also advised that the Government could not determine their immigration status in the United States or secure their return there.

Both men maintained that they do not wish to return to Jamaica.

Johnson Smith further advised that Jamaica’s High Commission in South Africa, which is accredited to the Kingdom of Eswatini, is continuing efforts to establish direct contact with the third Jamaican national.

The Ministry’s engagement follows earlier outreach by the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, D.C. to the relevant authorities in the United States, seeking information on the circumstances of the men’s removal to Eswatini, as well as formal representations by the High Commission in South Africa to the Government of Eswatini.

The Ministry’s consular support remains available in this matter and more broadly, to Jamaican nationals overseas whose circumstances may require its intervention.

The Government will continue to discharge its consular responsibilities with care, discretion and respect for the rights and decisions of the individuals concerned.

Jamaican nationals who are in distress or require consular assistance while overseas are reminded to contact the nearest Jamaican Embassy, High Commission or Consulate, or the Foreign Affairs Ministry.