Fri | May 17, 2024

Western Jamaica seen as critical to JLP winning elections

Published:Friday | February 2, 2024 | 12:14 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer -
Jamaica Labour Party officials and supporters arrive for its national meeting of candidates and members of parliament at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James yesterday. The meeting was held to announce the date for local government elec
Ashley Anguin
Jamaica Labour Party officials and supporters arrive for its national meeting of candidates and members of parliament at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James yesterday. The meeting was held to announce the date for local government elections, which are to take place on February 26 with nomination day set for February 8.

WESTERN BUREAU:

Highlighting the influential role of western Jamaica in shaping election outcomes, former St Mary Western Member of Parliament Robert 'Bobby' Montague has underscored the strategic move by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in announcing the local government elections in the west.

This pivotal announcement, made by Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie during a meeting of councillor candidates from all 228 divisions in the country, took place at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James yesterday.

With the election scheduled for February 26, the location of the announcement reflects the acknowledgement of the region's pivotal role in determining the overall electoral landscape. In the 2020 general election, the JLP achieved a resounding victory by winning all 16 constituencies in western Jamaica, covering Trelawny, St James, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St Elizabeth, thereby declaring triumph in the county of Cornwall.

Montague yesterday revealed the JLP's ambitious plans, emphasising the strategic importance of the region.

"There is a political saying in Jamaica that Jamaica goes where the west goes," he said.

Detailing the comprehensive approach the party is taking in its outreach efforts, Montague mentioned that JLP members are undergoing training and seminars. The party is gearing up to hit the road, with some prospective candidates already in action.

“The plan is to reach every nook and cranny, from lanes to gully sides, town squares to every doorstep," Montague stated. "We will not walk past any. We are not recognising a JLP yard and a PNP (People’s National Party) yard; we are acknowledging the yard of Jamaicans and will go there with our positive message."

Emphasising the JLP's commitment to grassroots engagement, Montague noted that the party would not take any constituency for granted. The focus is on the 228 divisions, with the JLP pledging to give its all in the February 26 elections. Drawing inspiration from the success of the 2020 general election, he highlighted the pivotal lesson learned – there is no area that cannot be won.

With the election serving as a testament to the JLP's resilience and broad appeal, Montague assured that the party was unwavering in its commitment to every division.

“The Jamaica Labour Party will not be giving up on any division. We are going full force, deploying people, allocating resources, channelling energy, and building momentum in all 228 divisions, alongside the mayor of Portmore,” he pledged.

His declaration underscores the JLP's determination to approach each division with vigour and dedication, aiming to replicate the success observed in the broader electoral landscape of 2020.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com