Phillips welcomes Bunting's decision to back out of race for PNP president

Prospective People's National Party president Dr Peter Phillips has issued a statement hailing the Manchester Central MP Peter Bunting following his decision to withdraw his intention to run for the party's top post.

According to Phillips, he "welcomes" Bunting's decision.

See Phillips' statement below:

I have taken note of a statement issued by Comrade Peter Bunting indicating his decision not to offer himself for the post of president of the People’s National Party when our current party president, Portia Simpson Miller vacates that position.

I respect and welcome the decision by Comrade Bunting as well as his offer to continue to work to strengthen the party.

I express my deep appreciation for the overwhelming support that has been extended to me by thousands of delegates of the party including the Parliamentary group, councillors, group members, individual members, and members of the party affiliates including the PNPYO, The Patriots, PNP Women’s Movement, National Workers' Union and Overseas Affiliates.

I remain committed to sustaining the unity and strength of the party while increasing its contribution to improving the lives of the Jamaican people. 

At the same time, I reiterate my unequivocal respect and support for the current Party President, who, together with the officers of the party, will make the necessary arrangements for the transition of leadership to take place.