KINGSTON, Jamaica— Young Jamaica, the youth arm of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), has joined in the condemnation of People’s National Party (PNP) member Peter Bunting, who recently questioned whether there is a link between police officers being promoted because of ties with a “friendly media house”.

“The comments made by Senator Bunting are not only disappointing but represent a dangerous trend of trying to politicise the progress of hardworking Jamaicans,” said Zukie Jarrett, a Young Jamaica co-ordinator.

“Young Jamaica, like many across the nation, recognises the crucial role that journalists and the media play in Jamaica’s democracy,” he added.

Young Jamaica called on Senator Bunting “to engage in responsible discourse that fosters unity and respect for the professionalism of individuals in both law enforcement and the media”.

“Such unfounded accusations do nothing but distract from the real issues facing our nation and undermine the very institutions that work to protect and inform the public,” Jarrett charged.

The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) also strongly condemned Bunting’s suggestion that success is contingent upon working at a “friendly media house” aligned with the Government.

READ: PAJ condemns Bunting remarks, political leaders undermining integrity of media

The association said such rhetoric is deeply troubling and represents a concerning trend of political leaders trying to undermine the integrity and independence of the media.

In a statement on Tuesday, the PAJ noted that journalists play a crucial role in our democracy, serving as watchdogs, holding power to account, and providing the public with accurate and unbiased information.