The death of a political activist and a fire near a supporter’s home has triggered concerns about political violence. The police are investigating cases but those on the ground say both incidents are politically motivated. There is now political tension rising in South East Clarendon and East Central St. Catherine following the two separate incidents.
In Clarendon, a JLP political activist, Paul Henry, was tragically murdered outside his home in Rocky Settlement hours before nomination day. Henry was a polling division worker for Clarendon South Eastern incumbent Pearnel Charles Jnr of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). “Paul was shot up and killed and it’s just one of the most unfortunate things that we’ve had to face,” said Charles Jnr, “This happened about thirty minutes after he and I were to meet face to face about preparation for the area. He was the key person in that area. I can’t speculate. We can’t speculate but there is a grave concern.”
The PNP candidate for Clarendon South East has also condemned the act stating that now is a time for partnership and love. However, the police have asserted that the incident is not politically linked but due to a long-standing dispute.
“Based on investigation and information I’ve gotten, it is not at this time considered politically motivated based on information that is more pointing to a dispute he had with fisherfolk from the community. He was threatened and that is where the investigation is pointing – that could be the motivating factor behind his death,” shared Head of Corporate Communications Unit at the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Senior Superintendent Stephanie Lindsay.
Over in Gulf, East Central St Catherine, there was a fire at a JLP supporters’ establishment. The owner is linking the incident to politics but the police say that may not be the case. The candidates for the constituency, are however condemning the incident.
“Sis Polly is one of the oldest residents in Gregory Park and where she has her stall they went and spray painted it ‘PNP’ there. You can’t do that man. You are cowards and you are hoodlums and you need to pack your bags and go back,” said JLP MP Candidate for East Central, Alando Terrelonge.
PNP candidate, Raymond Pryce said,” In this time of financial and other hardships that anyone would have lost property to fire is something that immediately receives my compassion…we will do everything in our gift to assist the affected persons.”
