Financial Secretary, Simon Wilson lost his temper at a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister on Thursday after being accused of lying by a member of the media.
Wilson was at the briefing to speak about the 2024-2025 budget. When asked for questions Nassau Guardian business reporter, Youri Kemp said, “last time you were here you lied to us when we asked you about JBL, in particular, you lied to the media.” Wilson told Kemp that it was a strong word he used.
Kemp continued saying, “the deficit target was missed this year. In 2022 it was missed and in 2021 it was missed. So everything that has come out from this office particularly when it comes down to the deficit and the revenue has been off. So why would we believe any that comes out of the ministry now this year with this budget?”
Mr. Wilson took exception to being called a liar by Kemp. Appearing flustered, Wilson told Kemp from the podium, “you called me a liar. I am this close…see let me say this. It’s one thing to criticize the government for policies, that’s one thing, but when you come and you used your place in media to make scandalous, unfounded allegations and think that you can get away with it, it don’t go that way my friend.”
He continued saying, “now we have a history, we have a history, we have a history. I fired you. I fired you for lying.” Wilson then left the podium where he met Kemp who was seated in the front row. A verbal altercation ensued which was captured on camera by persons in the room and posted on the social media platforms of various media houses. Minister of Economic Affairs, Sen. Hon. Michael Halkitis intervened in the heated exchange that nearly became physical. Wilson then left the room voluntarily, however Kemp was escorted out of the room by Director of Communications, Latrae Rahming.
Host of the press briefing, Acting Press Secretary, Keishla Adderley then returned to the podium where she addressed the incident. She said, “when we get to the point where person attacks are being launched that crosses the line. I condemn in the strongest terms what happened here this morning. The intent was for the Financial Secretary to flesh out some of the issues discussed in the budget communication issued yesterday and I condemn in the strongest terms any attack. As I said, nothing like that has happened here before and I don’t foresee that it will happen again. But I do want to say that going forward we would want members of the press speaking to whoever the guests are to exercise the same level of respect that comes from this podium or any member of the government when they speak on the issues affecting everyone in the country.”
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