Holness urges caution, joins PNP in mourning motorcade death of 15-y-o
Published:Wednesday | February 21, 2024 | 12:15 AMGareth Davis Sr/Gleaner Writer
East Portland:
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed sadness at the unfortunate and tragic accident which claimed the life of 15-year-old Lamar Gray during a People’s National Party (PNP) motorcade in St Catherine on Sunday.
Holness, who was addressing a mass meeting in East Portland on Monday night, following a tour of the parish, also expressed condolences to the bereaved family members, while urging Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) supporters to travel with care during motorcades, and to ensure that body protrusion is eliminated.
“Our campaign must be normal. Do not hang out of buses and, those riding bikes, be very careful,” said Holness, noting that he had not seen news reports on Sunday, so had not been aware of the incident.
“I took a little time [on Monday], went through my newspaper, and saw that a 15-year-old boy fell and died on a campaign, I believe it was in Portmore, Southboro. And this youngster, who was apparently on the PNP’s campaign, had an accident, fell from a bus and died. Very tragic and my heart goes out to his parents. And I’m sure all of you here are keeping that family in our prayers. It is really, really sad that this has happened.
“Last night [Sunday] I went to visit one of our workers who was also the victim of an accident, where she lost a leg in quite different circumstances. Boulders fell off and rolled on to a truck, damaged her leg and she had an amputation. Really, really sad. So I want to say to all of you here, when we call you out to come on campaign, I have a responsibility to make sure that whatever we do it is done orderly and it is done with your safety and security in mind,” Holness added.
Throughout the campaign, supporters of both major political parties have been seen sitting on bus and car windows, while travelling in a motorcade – a move that is considered unlawful according to the police. However, during political motorcades, the police have seemingly allowed the illicit practices to continue without prosecution – a move that has raised serious concerns among residents.