Assistant returning officer resigns after PNP caretaker raises concerns ahead of St Ann North East by-election

The Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) has confirmed that an assistant returning officer has resigned as a result of an investigation into concerns raised by People’s National Party (PNP) caretaker for St Ann North East constituency Dr Ryan Simpson.

Following Marsha Smith’s resignation as member of parliament for the constituency, a by-election was called for September 30 with nomination day set for today. Former Jamaica Labour Party Senator Matthew Samuda is set to be nominated for the governing party, while the PNP has indicated it would not be contesting the by-election, instead focusing on the general election constitutionally due by next year.

Yesterday The Gleaner obtained a copy of a letter dated September 3, 2024, addressed to Commissioner Wentworth Skeffery, PNP representative on the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ), and signed by Glasspole Brown, director of elections, that confirmed an investigation was ongoing with regard to the concerns raised by Simpson. Brown, however, did provide any details around the issue that led to the investigation.

“We have taken note of the correspondence from Dr Ryan Simpson, the PNP caretaker for the constituency of St Ann North East regarding the subject matter. We are carrying out the necessary investigation of the concerns highlighted by Dr Simpson and will provide an update to you when it is completed,” Brown said in the letter.

“As a result of the investigation, Brown noted, the assistant returning officer, who he identified as ‘Mrs Brown Dean’, tendered her resignation from the position effective August 29.

“Please be assured that the integrity, transparency, and fairness of EOJ-ECJ operation and action is of paramount importance,” Brown concluded.

Carl Gilchrist