Kingston, Jamaica —: The youth wing of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Young Jamaica (YJ), has voiced strong disapproval of the People’s National Party’s (PNP) decision to abstain from contesting the upcoming by-election in St Ann North East. According to YJ, this move constitutes a betrayal of democratic principles and denies constituents the opportunity to choose their representation.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced the by-election, scheduled for September 30, following the resignation of Marsha Smith on Monday. Despite this, the PNP has declared that they will not participate in the electoral contest.
Zukie Jarrett, organizer for YJ North East St Ann, and Matthew Samuda, the JLP’s designated standard-bearer for the constituency, have both been vocal in their condemnation of the PNP’s decision.
Jarrett emphasized, “Their decision to abandon the electoral process reveals their unwillingness to face the people and is a direct infringement on democracy. We unequivocally condemn the PNP for their cowardice and dereliction of duty.”
He further argued that by refusing to engage in the electoral process, the PNP is denying the electorate their right to a fair and competitive election, thereby undermining the democratic framework. “The democratic process thrives on choice, and the PNP’s absence strips voters of a crucial option, undermining the very foundation of our political system,” Jarrett added.
The PNP’s choice to not contest has sparked significant criticism from various corners, raising concerns about the implications for democratic engagement and voter representation in the affected constituency. The JLP, through Young Jamaica, continues to emphasize the importance of active political participation and choice in maintaining a robust and representative democratic system.
For the upcoming by-election, all eyes will be on how this dynamic impacts voter turnout and the overall political landscape in St Ann North East.
