A day after dissolving the Council of Opposition Spokespersons, Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller has begun the hunt for new representatives with consultations with several prospects yesterday.

Party officials said yesterday that Simpson Miller – who on Saturday defeated her challenger Dr Peter Phillips in a bitter internal election – is expected to complete the process by weekend with the team in place for next Tuesday’s sitting of the House of Representatives.

The previous shadow cabinet had at least 11 members who were either spokespersons or deputies, who were supporters of Phillips’ failed Arise and Renew team.

“It is unlikely that they will be swept out wholesale, but what is even more important is that she can only name persons who want to serve.” a source told the Observer last night.

Simpson Miller herself was spokesperson on development, gender and sports, with her deputies being Sharon Hay-Webster and Ian Hayles – the latter supporting her. Hay-Webster was a key member of Phillips’ Arise and Renew team.

It is likely that Dr Omar Davies will be returned to his favourite stomping ground, as spokesperson on finance, planning and the public service, while A J Nicholson is also expected to retain his position as Leader of Opposition Business in the Upper House.

Meanwhile, Simpson Miller yesterday called on comrades to cease and desist from bringing the party into disrepute.

“The elections are now behind us and the delegates have spoken. I am appealing to all comrades to discontinue demonstrations and other activities that are harmful to building an atmosphere of unity and harmony in the party,” the PNP president said in a statement.