Prime Minister Andrew Holness has accused Mandeville Mayor Donovan Mitchell of seeking to deprive residents of a parish park to maintain political power.

Last month, Mr. Holness announced plans for the park’s development in Mandeville through the National Housing Trust.

He also suggested that Brooks Park be used for the development and that it be renamed.

However, following Mr. Holness’ suggestion, Mayor Mitchell noted that Brooks Park, which was named in honour of the town’s first mayor, Stanley Edwin Brooks, should not be touched.

Mr. Mitchell also said the focus should instead be placed on upgrading the Mandeville market – a shelved project.

Addressing the matter at a Jamaica Labour Party Conference in East Central St. Catherine last night, Mr. Holness said more emphasis was being placed on political power rather than the citizens.