Only 12 of the 22 candidates from both the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) and Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), as well as one from a third party, Democratic Alliance for Real Emancipation (DARE), attended yesterday’s political code of conduct signing for the parish of St Catherine.

The ceremony held at Phillipo Baptist Church in Spanish Town was one of several staged across the island for candidates in the February 25 general election.

The PNP had the largest number of attendees, with eight of its 11 candidates, while the JLP had only four representatives at the ceremony. However, of the four persons present from the JLP, one was a representative for a candidate.

The function, which got off to a late start, was chaired by Custos of St Catherine Jeffrey McKenzie, who outlined to the candidates the purpose and function of the political ombudsman. He also outlined the agreement and declaration on the code of political conduct by the two main parties.

“Well, we are pleased for the response from the political parties. Some of the candidates did not turn up, but we know that they have had the opportunity to study the code and I hope that they will all adhere to it,” the custos told the Jamaica Observer.

According to the first principle outlined in the joint agreement and declaration, the nation’s political parties must affirm their belief in the sanctity of human life and abhor taking human life or the violation of the person of anyone because of the that person’s political allegiance.

Other principles speak to the rejection of violence, commitment to non-violent relations between parties, and the recognition and respect of the rights of each party.

The need for adherence to the principles outlined in the code was reiterated by Police Superintendent Mevrol Smith, who spoke on behalf of Senior Superintendent Anthony Powell.

He said that the police are asking for the parties’ co-operation during the campaign, and this meant that the police should be notified beforehand of any type of indoor or outdoor meetings or rallies so as to mitigate the risk of unfortunate incidents.

“We are asking that you observe the law with regards to marches, and why I say this is that by law, marches should be completed by 6:00 pm. We know that from time to time you might go over while there, but we are saying beforehand, let the police know the areas you are going through,” the superintendent advised candidates.

He added that the police will continue to be in constant dialogue with the parties and also observe a “no partisan” approach when it comes to dealing with breaches by candidates and supporters. Smith ended by telling the candidates that the police will do their job to ensure that there is a peaceful campaign and that all citizens of Jamaica can safely express their views for the respective parties on election day.

Following the signing of the code conduct, the PNP’s candidate for St Catherine Southern Fitz Jackson gave a statement on behalf of the two main parties.

However, before expressing his thanks, Jackson apologised on behalf of the absentee members of the PNP, stating that all of the candidates had signed the code as a requirement a few weeks ago to signify their commitment to adhere to the provisions.

“On behalf of my fellow colleagues from the Jamaica Labour Party, I also want to extend appreciation to the custos and the office for facilitating this exercise on behalf of the political ombudsman. It is in the interest of us all to adhere to these provisions as we seek to offer ourselves in service of our Jamaican people,” Jackson stated.

He added that a peaceful election, free from fear, is in the interest of everyone and that he believes that everyone will play their part to ensure that this is achieved during and after the campaign.