EOJ, Ombudsman move to quash election violence

Norman Horne

Franklyn Witter

Rosemarie Shaw

James Robertson

Published in the Jamaica Gleaner: Wednesday | August 15, 2007

In an effort to end the existing political tension in two constituencies, the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) and Political Ombudsman, Bishop Herro Blair, have called a meeting for today with four candidates.

The candidates called to the meeting are the People's National Party's (PNP) Rosemarie Shaw and the Jamaica Labour Party's (JLP) James Robertson, who are contesting the West St. Thomas seat, as well as the PNP's Norman Horne and the JLP's Franklyn Witter, who are doing battle in South East St. Elizabeth.

Along with the Political Ombudsman, Director of Elections, Danville Walker, and nominated members of the ECJ are expected to attend.

Last week, Mr. Walker threatened to have the general election postponed in two tension-filled constituencies, one of which was St. Elizabeth South East, if incidents of violence and civil disturbance continue throughout the on-going campaign.

The two major parties have accused each other of violence and intimidation in South East St. Elizabeth and a major clash took place between supporters at the Junction Square on Nomination Day. The fracas left several persons with minor injuries after they were hit by bottles and stones.

Gunshots fired

It has also been reported that last Saturday, gunshots were fired in the vicinity of Mr. Witter's home.

Over in West St. Thomas, the political tension increased as well on Nomination Day when the incumbent, Mr. Robertson, showed up over an hour late at the Yallahs Primary School to be nominated, minutes before the time scheduled for Mrs. Shaw.

It was also alleged that a PNP supporter was killed last Friday in Yallahs as JLP supporters toured the parish.

Today's meeting is scheduled for the Elections Centre in New Kingston.