Moore survives mutiny
Published:Friday | September 15, 2023 | 12:09 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
An attempt to oust the People’s National Party’s (PNP) Bertel Moore as chairman of the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation was thwarted on Thursday.
Independent councillor Lawton McKenzie of the Grange Hill division intercepted the motion, which was brought by Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) councillors on the grounds that the majority have lost confidence in Moore’s ability to lead.
“Mr Chairman, the majority of 12 is seven, not six,” said McKenzie, pointing out that the August 31 motion could not stand without the majority in agreement.
Sheffield division’s Garfield James, who had earlier indicated that he would no longer sit as an Independent councillor but as a member of the JLP, protested.
“I hope that the CEO (Marvalyn Pitter) will be guided accordingly. The resolution was not written just now and, as we speak, it is the JLP that has the majority in council now,” James said, seeking to dismiss McKenzie’s argument. “Chairman, you cannot be included in the count, it is you who the resolution is against.”
However, Moore quickly rebuked him.
“Where did you get that from? You are crazy! How are you going to stop me? Sit down!” Moore shouted, before banging the gavel to abruptly end the meeting as James refused to yield.
Citing their disapproval of Ian Hayles’ selection as a potential PNP candidate for Westmoreland Western, McKenzie, James and Ian Myles, who were elected on PNP tickets, resigned from the party earlier in July. The trio also joined with the JLP councillors to remove the PNP’s deputy mayor, Danree Delancy, on a motion that he failed to execute the duties of that office.
That matter is now being contested in the courts.