Mayor of Kingston Councillor Andrew Swaby on Tuesday refuted what he said are politically motivated claims being circulated on social media that the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) is planning to raise market fees and forcibly remove vendors from the streets of the city.

The mayor, speaking at Tuesday’s sitting of the monthly meeting of the KSAMC in downtown Kingston, said that will never be his approach.

“It has come to my attention that there are individuals on social media, particularly those pushing a political agenda, who are claiming that the KSAMC plans to immediately raise market fees and forcefully remove vendors from the streets. Let me be perfectly clear about this. As I have consistently stated, no decision affecting vendors will be made without engaging in thorough consultations and discussions with representatives of the vendors themselves, something that previous administrations disregarded entirely.

“They abandoned discussions with our vendors, leaving their concerns unheard. With this administration there is a clear difference. We are dedicated to ensuring that vendors have a seat at the table. This administration is about inclusiveness, consultation and respect for those who contribute to the livelihood of our city,” Swaby said.

The mayor added that individuals who are part of the plot to misinform the public and stir up fear and confusion will not succeed.

“Your tactics are evident and they only serve to undermine the work we are trying to accomplish. It has always been my practice to invite both sides of the political divide at all meetings,” he said, pointing out that the Jamaica Labour Party representative who is supposed to attend meetings to discuss how vendors are to be treated with, has not been making himself available.

“For the vending meetings, the ranking member has always been invited. However, he has always provided an excuse and apology for his absence. I have now invited the deputy mayor [Councillor Delroy Williams] to be a part of the discussion with our vendors as we try to find a workable solution that will promote transparency and accountability.

“Let there be no mistake: our approach will be transparent, fair and respectful. Any attempt to distort the facts will be challenged at every level. The public deserves the truth and we will not tolerate those who seek to manipulate it for personal or political gains.”