BRIEFS

Golding sole nominee for PNP presidency

ACCORDING TO a release from the People’s National Party (PNP) following the close of nominations at noon yesterday, Mark Golding was nominated unopposed for a third consecutive term as the president of the party.

“His uncontested election comes at a crucial time for the party as we strive to address the challenges faced by Jamaica and advocate for the needs and aspirations of our citizens,” the release said.

The four current vice presidents of the party, Senator Donna Scott-Mottley, Mayor Norman Scott, Mikael Phillips, MP, and Ian Hayles, have all been nominated unchallenged for another term.

The release further stated that a change in its constitution now mandates a two-year term of office for the president and vice presidents, therefore, after their nominations are ratified at the party’s annual conference in September, this slate of Officers will serve for the 2023-25 political term.

In response to his nomination, Golding expressed gratitude to everyone who signed his nomination form. The release said that he “feels strengthened by the confidence bestowed upon him by the party members and recognises that Jamaica is looking to the PNP for a new direction and an opportunity for the country to move forward”.

18 Qahal Yahweh members charged

EIGHTEEN PERSONS have been charged with breaches of the Child Care and Protection Act (CCPA) as investigations continue into activities that have taken place at the Qahal Yahweh Religious Group located at Norwood Avenue, Paradise, St James.

According to a release from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Corporate Communications Unit, those charged have been granted bail and are scheduled to appear before the St James Parish Court on Wednesday, July 19.

Seven other individuals were arrested on reasonable suspicion of involvement in other offences and placed in safe custody pending further investigations.

The charges come following several enquiries, interviews, and recording of statements, after a multi-agency operation was conducted on June 30 in partnership with the Ministry of Health. As a result of this operation, 22 individuals were escorted to the Montego Bay Police Station for questioning.

Those charged are Rebecca Gallimore, Christopher Anderson, Jodian Spence, Oral Spence, Jose Foskin, Engrid Williams, Rayon Letman, Francine Paris, Roanalee Maitland, Fabian Nelson, Melisha Thompson, Javaughn Thompson, Alicia Medley-Bennett, Nickeisha Harding, Derrick Clarke, Omar Thompson, Vera Wolleryand Neil Spence.

The accused include several parents whose children have been placed into State care.

Individuals in custody are being represented by the law office of Peter Champagnie, KC.