Prime Minister Bruce Golding says Christopher “Dudus” Coke exerted considerable influence in Tivoli Gardens particularly among the young people.

“He was a benefactor…he was typical of what is called Dons, wielding a considerable amount of influence and being held in significant esteem,” said Golding in response to queries from his attorney, Hugh Small.

The Prime Minister testified at the Manatt-Dudus commission of enquiry this morning that he met Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in early 2005 shortly before he became Member of Parliament for West Kingston.

He said after he was elected Member if Parliament, he met Coke occasionally in Tivoli Gardens.

This is a diversion from the claims of other senior cabinet members and stalwarts in the Jamaica Labour Party who gave evidence at the enquiry.

Justice Minister Dorothy Lightbourne, National Security Minster and Daryl Vaz have denied knowing Coke, saying most of their knowledge of the man emanated from media reports.

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