THE two major political parties yesterday ceased, with immediate effect, political campaigning ahead of the August 27 national polls in the wake of Hurricane Dean, which is expected to hit Jamaica tomorrow.

The campaigning, in its final week, was expected to wind down with mass rallies for the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in Morant Bay and Half-Way-Tree and meetings for the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) in select constituencies.

Yesterday, Opposition Leader Bruce Golding announced a cessation of all political activities with immediate effect and prayed that the hurricane changed course.

“I have instructed all our candidates to redirect their organisational machinery to mobilising citizens to take all necessary precautionary measures and to assist in providing the appropriate response and relief to those who might be affected by the hurricane strikes..” Golding said at a hastily-called press conference at the party’s Belmont Road headquarters in Kingston.

He said that based on the evidence, there was the possibility of severe flooding and possible loss of life even if the country is spared a direct hit.

He said the primary focus at this time must be the contingency methods to mitigate the loss of lives and suffering of the most vulnerable in our midst.

The PNP also, in a release, said the party too was putting a halt on all activities immediately.

“The PNP is asking constituency leadership across the island to assist with preparations for safety and recovery in light of the threat posed by Hurricane Dean,” the party said in a press release.