The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) is calling  for renewed urgency in protecting Jamaica’s children from violence and abuse, following  the murder  of 10-year-old Shani Coke in Trelawny.

The girl’s body was discovered along a dirt track in Troy district on Tuesday.

It was also reported that she was raped.

In a statement, spokesperson on gender, Denise Daley said she is  deeply saddened and disturbed by the tragic death, adding that no family should ever have to endure such heart break.

Daley said the  loss of another child has left the nation in mourning and serves as a painful reminder that safeguarding children must remain a national priority.

According  to the spokesperson, the tragedy must compel the country to strengthen its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that those who are vulnerable receive the care, support and protection they deserve.

Ms. Daley has called on the country  to work  together to build stronger systems that protect  children from violence and abuse.

She further encouraged Jamaicans to play their part in creating safer communities for children, stressing that protecting the nation’s youngest citizens is a shared responsibility that demands vigilance, compassion and action.

The spokesperson  also urged Jamaicans to allow the investigative process to proceed without interference.