Senator Matthew Samuda, the minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, on Thursday revealed that he is advanced in the process of renouncing his British citizenship which he acquired at birth.

“I voluntarily took the decision to retain Jamaican citizenship only and renounce British citizenship after having carefully listened to recent public discourse concerning the issue of dual citizenship,” Samuda said in a news release.

“I had begun the process of renunciation prior to today by completing relevant forms. In response to public enquiries, I wish to make my decision to renounce clear,” he added.

Samuda’s statement came amidst intense debate about Opposition Leader Mark Golding’s revelation last week that he holds British citizenship. The revelation as served a fodder for Golding’s political opponents who have called on him to renounce his British citizenship.

On Thursday, Samuda, who attracted flak from the Opposition People’s National Party, called on Golding to take a course of action similar to his.