PRIME Minister Bruce Golding has responded to the Press Association of Jamaica, saying he is “puzzled” as to why he had a duty to allow journalists to accompany him on a visit to Tivoli Gardens on Wednesday last week. Golding also denied knowledge that the media had been barred.Related story: Media barred as Golding tours Tivoli

The PAJ previously wrote to the prime minister, asking why soldiers had blocked journalists from Tivoli, where he met with residents and toured the West Kingston community following the assault by security forces on May 24. 73 civilians and three members of the security forces were killed in the operation.

“The situation in Tivoli, as you know, is very delicate. There is healing that must take place and a new understanding of the way forward that must be forged. These are not necessarily the obligations or primary objectives of those whose foremost duty is to report the news, whatever that news is,” said Golding.

When journalists were first allowed inside the community on May 27, residents openly criticised Golding for allegedly abandoning his constituents after he gave the authority to declare a State of Emergency four days earlier. He also got a mixed reception on his visit, mayor of Kingston Desmond McKenzie acknowledged afterwards.

“Some people were glad to see him, as usual we wouldn’t expect everybody to be happy. But the fact that he was there and he has heard the concerns of the people this is now just the start to deal with the situation,” said McKenzie.

West Kingston has for decades been the seat of power for the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), but several residents expressed disaffectiion with Golding and the party, following the intervention of the security forces, leaving a question mark over the future of the area’s political allegiance.