KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party Youth Organization (PNPYO) has expressed deep concern over the use of racially charged rhetoric from the governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), which it says contradicts the very foundation of the country’s motto, “Out of Many, One People”.

In particular, the PNPYO condemned the recent remarks by Member of Parliament Everald Warmington, who, while addressing a JLP gathering in St Andrew Eastern recently, encouraged voters to consider race in choosing between Mark Golding and Andrew Holness in the next General Election.

The group said this follows similar comments he made in November 2024 at a JLP rally in St Catherine North Eastern.

“These statements are an unacceptable attempt to inject racial division into our politics,” the group said in a statement on Friday.

Noting previous political leaders like Norman Manley and Sir Alexander Bustamante, the PNPYO said Jamaica has long embraced leaders of diverse backgrounds, representing the nation’s commitment to inclusivity.

The group therefore called on Prime Minister Andrew Holness to act in accordance with his own public statements, including his recent remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast, where he assured the country that racially divisive rhetoric has no place in our political discourse.

“We urge him to hold his colleagues accountable and publicly denounce Warmington’s comments. As the election nears, we must remain vigilant against rhetoric that sows discord and threatens our democratic stability. The PNPYO calls on civil society, the diaspora and all well-thinking Jamaicans to reject this dangerous rhetoric and demand higher standards of leadership,” the PNPYO said.

It said the PNP remains resolute in upholding the principles of respect, unity and integrity in governance.

“We urge the prime minister to discipline his party members and ensure their statements reflect the dignity of their office. Preserving national harmony is not just a moral imperative but a necessity for the stability and success of our democracy. Let us not return to an era of political turmoil. The responsibility to safeguard our nation’s unity rests with all of us,” the PNPYO added.