Campbell Criticises JLP for ‘Toying With Democratic Process’

People’s National Party, PNP, general secretary, Dr. Dayton Campbell, says the Jamaica Labour Party, JLP, is toying with the democratic process by selecting Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert as its presumptive candidate for the upcoming by-election in South Trelawny.

Mrs. Dalrymple-Philibert resigned last year as Speaker of the Lower House and member of parliament.

Her resignation came after the Integrity Commission ruled that she be charged for failing to declare ownership of a Mercedes Benz.

Mrs. Dalrymple-Philibert has denied intentionally failing to make the declaration and is challenging the matter against the Integrity Commission in court.

She’s due back in court in December.

Speaking during Nationwide at Five on Thursday, Dr. Campbell says Mrs. Dalrymple-Philibert should await the outcome of her court case before re-entering the political arena. 

The governing JLP, in defending Mrs. Dalrymple-Phillibert’s selection, has dismissed the PNP’s concerns. They label it as blatant hypocrisy when the PNP itself has not addressed the legal issues involving some of its own prominent members.

According to the JLP, the PNP has maintained the status quo, despite questions about the likes of Isat Buchanan, it’s caretaker in East Portland.

Mr. Buchanan, who has two convictions for drug trafficking.

Dr. Campbell says the PNP firmly supports the principle of reformation.

Dr. Dayton Campbell, PNP general secretary.

Meanwhile, JLP deputy general secretary, Senator Charles Sinclair has dismissed Dr. Campbell’s argument, saying the PNP is grabbing at straws in its attempt to make a credible argument. 

Senator Charles Sinclair, JLP deputy general secretary. He was also speaking on Nationwide at Five on Thursday.