PNP Urges Action Against Escalating Media Attacks by JLP’s Everald Warmington
Kingston, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has intensified its call for Prime Minister Andrew Holness to intervene in what it describes as a growing threat to media freedom posed by Everald Warmington, a member of Holness’s Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). The PNP’s demand comes in response to a fiery speech by Warmington, promising to escalate his campaign against the RJRGLEANER Communications Group, despite widespread criticism.
Speaking at a recent JLP Area Council Two conference, Warmington reiterated his commitment to confronting the media group, triggering backlash for his confrontational rhetoric. The PNP issued a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing that such remarks endanger journalists’ safety and undermine Jamaica’s democratic foundations.
Warmington’s controversial history with the media is well-documented, involving multiple incidents where he has made obscene gestures, deployed offensive language, and shown disrespect towards journalists in interviews. The PNP argues that Prime Minister Holness’s apparent inaction on these matters raises significant doubts about his dedication to upholding press freedom.
"Prime Minister Holness often vocalizes his support for free press, yet his silence regarding Mr. Warmington’s actions is troubling," the PNP declared. "Warmington’s aggressive remarks about ensuring a third JLP term ‘by any means necessary’ mark a concerning shift from constructive political dialogue. His assaults on journalists threaten the safety and integrity of the press."
The opposition highlighted a previous statement by Information Minister Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, who stressed the importance of maintaining respect for the media during a post-cabinet briefing last week. "Even if it’s a hard question, they are doing their job," Dr. Dixon stated, underscoring the vital role journalists play in a democratic society.
However, the PNP criticized the lack of any formal denouncement of Warmington’s actions, pointing to an evident inconsistency in the government’s stance. They urged the Press Association of Jamaica to initiate a national conversation to cultivate mutual respect between media professionals and political figures.
The PNP reiterated its firm commitment to safeguarding press freedom and preserving democratic values, advocating for a respectful and constructive relationship between the media and political entities in Jamaica.
