JFJ, Chang spar over ‘blood money’ claim

A fiery war of words has erupted between Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) and the country's national security leadership, with the human rights lobby group firing back at suggestions that it is "living off blood money".

In a sharply worded rebuttal, JFJ turned the accusation on its head, challenging what it described as dangerous and misleading rhetoric surrounding its funding.

The organisation said its financing comes through legitimate channels -- primarily grants from international development agencies -- using mechanisms similar to those that support state institutions and government programmes.

But it was the group's pointed question that raised eyebrows.

"We, therefore, ask: by the same logic, is the Government also 'profiting from blood money' through its own operations and funding?" JFJ said.

The statement signals a dramatic escalation in the public spat, as the advocacy body pushes back against what it views as an attempt to tarnish its reputation.

JFJ argued that branding civil society funding in such terms is not only defamatory but risks undermining trust in organisations that play a watchdog role in Jamaica's democracy.

The group insisted that its work -- including legal advocacy, police accountability monitoring, and human rights training -- is transparently funded and subject to reporting requirements.

"We have consistently maintained that the JCF must be held to the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and accountability. This position supports--rather than opposes--effective policing and is vital to sustaining public trust and long-term security," the group said.