Duane Smith to replace Clarke in St Andrew North West

The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has announced that Councillor for the Chancery Hall Division, Duane Smith, will replace Dr Nigel Clarke as its standard bearer in the St Andrew North Western constituency.

Clarke will be heading to the International Monetary Fund to take up the post of deputy managing director in October.

"There will be a smooth transition of Dr Clarke's responsibilities as Member of Parliament. As such, Mr Duane Smith, the three-term Councillor for the Chancery Hall Division will eventually be the Jamaica Labour Party candidate for the St Andrew North Western constituency, currently represented by Dr Clarke," the JLP said in a media release on Monday.

The JLP said it offers unreserved and effusive congratulations to Clarke on his appointment and supports his continued service at the global level. 

"Jamaicans of all backgrounds can be proud that a fellow Jamaican, who has made his career in Jamaica, is being elevated to service in the leadership of a prominent global financial institution. Having Jamaicans in positions of authority and influence in global affairs is good for Jamaica and good for the Caribbean region," the party said.

"While we will miss Nigel Clarke once he takes up this appointment, the Jamaica Labour Party ultimately views this development as a huge net gain for Jamaica and the Caribbean. As this Jamaica Labour Party administration continues to modernise and develop Jamaica, it is to be expected that we will see an expansion of Jamaica's reach and influence in the world as demonstrated by this appointment," the JLP continued.

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