Montego Bay Mayor and Chairman of the St. James Municipal Corporation, Richard Vernon, has called on political parties to ensure the full removal of political advertisements and paraphernalia from public spaces within the locality.

Mayor Vernon said the materials must be removed by Wednesday, September 17.

His directive comes in the wake of heightened public concern and controversy surrounding the removal of political signage, prior to the recent general election.

Mayor Vernon emphasized that while freedom of expression is protected, it must be exercised within the bounds of the law and with respect for the shared community space.

The Mayor said any party, agent, or individual who fails to act by the deadline will deal with the Municipal Corporation’s Enforcement Department.

He said the team is already mobilized and is prepared to act decisively.

The Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations state that any advertisement used in connection with a parliamentary or local government election must be removed within fourteen days following the close of polls.