#ByElections2017: JLP jubilation in St Mary South East

Erica Virtue, Senior Gleaner Writer 

Jubilant Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) supporters brought the main street in Annotto Bay, St Mary South East to a standstill for more than two and a half hours as they celebrated the victory of their candidate, Dr Norman Dunn.

Dunn, a two-time political candidate, trounced newcomer Dr Shane Alexis by more than 900 votes.

He polled 8,176 votes to Alexis' 7,239 votes.

The win brings the balance of power in the House of Representatives to 33-30 in favour of the JLP.

"The PNP use a song say dem ago tiad fi si mi face. Well si mi yah now ..." Dunn said. 

With his voice waning, he thanked the  people for their support.

"Tonight is a night of celebrations for the people. We are just here to tell you thanks," said Desmond McKenzie on microphone at the car park on Annotto Bay, the site of the celebrations.

The writing of a Dunn win was on the wall from early afternoon as PNP supporters retreated within an hour after the polls closed leaving the narrow roadways to JLP supporters.

Shahine Robinson was the first to lead a large throng through the town around 6:30 p.m. saying the party's canvass confirmed what they knew that Dunn won.

"Thank you to the hardworking people of the Belfield Division. Argument Dunn," said Robinson.

Member of Parliament for St Elizabeth South Western Floyd Green said it was a great win for the party.

"It's a great win for the people of South Eastern St Mary. I am sure he will be an excellent representative for the people.  Dr Dunn stuck with them", Green told The Gleaner.

Andrew Wheatley, deputy general secretary, told the hundreds of supporters that Jamaica wanted substance more than noise.

"The win sends a message that Jamaica believed in the work of the Prime Minister of Jamaica, and JLP leader Andrew Holness," Wheatley said.