Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed sadness at the passing of Councillor for the Knockpatrick division in the Manchester Municipal Corporation, Cleon Francis.

Mr. Francis died at the hospital today (July 8) after ailing for several weeks.

The Prime Minister said Councillor Francis was a brave, loyal and fearless representative.

He was the only sitting Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) councillor in central Manchester, having won in 2012.

Up to the time of his death today, Councillor Francis was also serving as leader of the minority caucus of councillors in the Manchester Municipal Corporation.

While noting that Francis will be missed, Mr Holness said the government and the people of Jamaica are grateful for his service, as he has left his unmistakable mark on the local government system.

The Prime Minister extended condolences to Councillor Francis’ family, friends, colleagues and the wider Jamaica Labour Party family.