Parliament descends into chaos when attempt by Opposition to put through censure motion against Gov’t about Cuba embargo failed

November 4, 2026

Yesterday’s sitting of the Lower House descended into chaos when an attempt by the Opposition to put through a censure motion against the Government about the Cuba embargo failed.

Opposition Member Antony Hylton tabled the motion, which sought to have the Government respond within one week and demand answers about what has been deemed a secret policy shift.

It comes in the wake of Jamaica’s recent decision to abstain from voting on the United Nations Resolution that called for an end to the embargo imposed on Cuba by the United States.

Hylton argued that the Government misled the House.

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It was intended for the motion to be debated next week and with Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness present.

However, Leader of Government Business in the Lower House Floyd Green pointed out that the motion should be dealt with now.

Green described the motion as being absurd and fundamentally misconceived.

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The matter led to a tense standoff, with Opposition members objecting to Green’s claims and House Speaker Juliet Holness referring to the Standing Orders that apply to the situation.

Green also outlined the responsibility of the Executive to formulate and conduct policy, then asked for the debate to be closed.

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The matter was voted on and closed.