HANOVER, Jamaica – The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leadership in Hanover Eastern is currently looking into what could have transpired within 24 hours that has resulted in a seat it had won being rescinded following Monday’s local government elections.

Following a preliminary count, political newcomer and educator Kaydeen Myles-Campbell of the JLP was said to have won the Chester Castle seat by 17 votes. However, following a recount on Tuesday, the former Mayor of Lucea, Wynter McIntosh of the People’s National Party (PNP), won the seat by 181 votes.

On Monday, Myles-Campbell obtained 1,115 votes to 1,098 votes for McIntosh. However, following a recount of some 27 boxes by the returning officer and her team, McIntosh received 1,195 votes to 1,014 for Myles-Campbell.

Member of Parliament for Hanover Eastern, Dave Brown, said dialogue will be had with Myles-Campbell and her workers before deciding whether the party will seek a magisterial recount or call it a day.

“Mrs Myles-Campbell was declared the winner on Monday night. [However], during the recount yesterday (Tuesday), it showed that Mr McIntosh won by 181 votes. So, we are only concerned about what transpired between Monday and yesterday during the recount to have overthrown that 17 and added 181. So, that is our concern and we are going to look at it before making a decision.”

On Monday, it was said that the PNP had won six of seven seats within the Hanover Municipal Corporation. However, should there be no further change with the ongoing recounts in the parish, the JLP could be deprived of a seat in the corporation.

– Anthony Lewis