The Political Ombudsman and the general secretaries of the country’s 2 main political parties are jointly appealing for political campaign supporters to be tolerant and civil in their campaign activities.

This in the wake of reports of tension, amidst the removal and destruction of campaign paraphernalia, as well as claims of intimidation.

In a statement, the Electoral Commission of Jamaica, which also functions as the Ombudsman, said given the rise in political tension, the general secretaries for the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP) attended a meeting today.

The general secretaries for both political parties expressed solidarity with the Political Ombudsman at the meeting to discuss the recent incidents of tearing down of political campaign signs.

Display of campaign material is part of the political and electoral process and each person has the right to participate freely without fear or intimidation from persons with opposing views.

It was noted that the tearing down and otherwise unauthorized removal of signs, posters, billboards as well as other instances of destruction of property is a direct violation of that right and is counter-productive for democracy. 

These acts are divisive in nature and could set the stage for further tension and conflict which can set back the nation, marring the reputation for peaceful campaigning and a free and fair electoral process.

This type of conduct has no place within the society.

The Ombudsman and party representatives pointed out that Jamaica worked long and hard to maintain the strides made as one of the oldest democracies in the region.

They unreservedly reject violence and intimidation in any form and appeal to all Jamaicans to join in restoring calm and civility to the campaign process ahead of the general election.

The Jamaica Labour Party and the People’s National Party have committed to calling on their supporters to maintain respect for each other and respect for private property.

The Political Ombudsman supports this call.

The leadership of the JLP and the PNP have pledged to uphold the principles of the code of political conduct and imploring their supporters to do the same.

They stated that they stand united in promoting respectful campaigning throughout this election season and beyond.