Samuda Disappointed With Handling of Retirement Announcement

Member of Parliament, MP, for North Central St. Andrew, Karl Samuda, is expressing disappointment over the manner in which his departure from representational politics was announced.

His comments follow the announcement by Jamaica Labour Party, JLP general secretary, Dr. Horace Chang, that he will not be seeking re-election in the next general election, constitutionally due next year.

Robian Williams reports.

The veteran MP Karl has stated that he feels blindsided by the announcement. Mr. Samuda, who described his constituents as family, believes they should have been consulted before any official statement was made.

He emphasised that his constituents, whom he has represented since 1980, deserved greater respect.

He adds that the constituency was shaped by mutual respect between himself and the people.

Mr. Samuda says he’s perturbed that he had to learn about the announcement through social media.

In the same announcement, it was revealed that member of parliament for Central Clarendon, Mike Henry, will also not seek re-election.

Mr. Samuda notes a sense of urgency surrounding the succession of both constituencies.

There’s been increased speculation about changes within the governing JLP as the party prepares for the next general election.

Meanwhile, Dr. Chang says nothing is settled regarding successors for three senior parliamentarians, including MPs Karl Samuda and Mike Henry.

Dr. Horace Chang, JLP general secretary.