The Annual General Meeting, AGM of the Association of Local Government Authorities of Jamaica (ALGA-J), came to an abrupt halt today, as councillors clashed over what has been deemed procedural breaches.

ALGA-J President Winston Maragh was reportedly injured and had to seek medical attention.

Among the contentions are that the agenda of the meeting was not being adhered to, and that there was no discussion about the financial report.

Speaking with the media at the Golf View Hotel in Manchester where the meeting was being held, Mr. Maragh explained that chaos erupted when it was time for the election of officers.

The president claimed that the People’s National Party (PNP) caucus of councillors feared being out voted.

As for the injury to his hand, president Maragh explained that it happened when another councillor grabbed the microphone from him.

Meanwhile, the PNP caucus of councillors has expressed concern and disappointment that   today’s AGM of the Association of Local Government Authorities of Jamaica ALGA-J, ended abruptly. 

A statement from the PNP said the meeting descended into disorder after significant breaches of procedural rules and constitutional requirements were highlighted.

Spokesperson for the caucus, councillor Scean Barnswell said among the breaches highlighted are the non verification of a quorum, and the failure to send the agenda to councillors 5 days prior to the meeting.

The agenda was reportedly given to them today.

Mr. Barnwell also claimed that when the councillors requested the financial report, ALGA-J president Winston Maragh bypassed the matter.

He added that the meeting further descended into chaos when members of the Jamaica Labour Party, J-L-P called for the suspension of standing orders to proceed directly with the election of officers. 

This motion was vehemently opposed by PNP councillors, who insisted that proper procedures be followed.

Mr. Barnwell rubbished president Maragh’s claim about the PNP councillors’ fear of being out voted.  

The councillors also expressed displeasure at the Social Development Commission being tasked with conducting elections, and requested that the electoral office oversee all electoral matters to ensure fairness and transparency.

The PNP caucus has called for an urgent reconvening of the AGM, with strict adherence to the ALGA-J constitution and general rules. 

And, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has condemned the reported clash of councillors, which resulted in today’s AGM of the Association of Local Government Authorities of Jamaica ALGA-J, ending abruptly.  

ALGA-J President Winston Maragh was reportedly injured during the incident.

In a statement McKenzie described the situation as a total disgrace.

He chastised the councillors for their poor behaviour which disrupted the meeting at which new officers were to be elected.

The minister said the government has worked extremely hard to elevate not only the resources given to local government but also the professional and ethical standards that this critical form of government must reflect. 

McKenzie said he will be meeting with the ALGA-J soon.