Another controversy as Councillor Troupe returns from suspension

Okoye Henry, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:
Granville division councillor Michael Troupe today made his first appearance at the St James Municipal Corporation since being suspended seven months ago and was immediately the subject of another controversy.

During the monthly meeting of the corporation, a photograph was circulated depicting Troupe and several other men with what appeared to be alcoholic beverages.

One of the men is a reputed criminal.

Montego Bay North East division councillor Senator Charles Sinclair said councillors must be cautious about who they engage with.

According to Sinclair, councillors are expected to maintain integrity.

He also said their association with criminals had the potential to affect the perception about all elected representatives.

"Councillors be careful you don't find yourself in this damaging situation," said Sinclair before referring to the recent flare up of shootings in Granville.

Troupe, a People's National Party (PNP) councillor confirmed that he was pictured among the men.

He said the photo was taken about two and a half years ago during the campaign for the Local Government election.

"We all know that during campaigns, a lot for time persons come around you and you have no idea who they are," said Troupe.

In February, Troupe was suspended for bringing the municipal body into disrepute.

The decision to suspend the long-serving councillor arose from the emergence of documents which showed that he signed off on payments to his former secretary for work done up to October 31, 2017, more than three months after he said she had walked off the job.

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