Member of Parliament for St. George North-East Ron Redhead has described Grenada’s asset declaration process as “drama,” admitting that he has yet to submit his 2024 declaration to the Integrity Commission as required by law.
Redhead, who was removed as a Cabinet minister earlier this year, cited logistical challenges as a factor in his delay, mentioning the need to obtain and pay for various supporting documents, including bank statements.
Appearing on the Grenada Broadcasting Network’s (GBN) “To the Point” programme, the elected MP explained his stance in response to a caller’s question, saying, “I have not assessed anything new and it’s a whole process… you have to pay for bank statements and all this other drama.”
He also said that time constraints have hindered his ability to meet the deadline, noting, “I have not filed mine because the time does not permit me. Every year we have to keep filing this – I have nothing newer than last year to be included.”
The 2013 Integrity in Public Life Act mandates public officials, including MPs, to file a detailed annual declaration of income, assets, and liabilities for themselves and their families.
Officials who were notified in September 2024 were expected to submit their declarations by late October.
The declaration requires extensive details on bank balances, foreign and local investments, and cash holdings over $1,000.
Those unable to meet the deadline may request an extension, though Redhead did not indicate whether he has done so.
Despite calling the process cumbersome, MP Redhead affirmed his commitment to complying with the law, stating, “I (will) declare my assets because it’s the law.”
His comments have raised questions about the accessibility, and complexity of Grenada’s asset declaration process, which has long been viewed as a mechanism to promote transparency and accountability among public officials.