Government Senator Delano Seiveright has suspended his campaign to represent the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in the St Andrew North Central constituency in the upcoming general election.

The seat is being vacated by the veteran Karl Samuda after nearly 45 years. Samuda, who’s 83-years-old, is bowing out of representational politics. He’s reportedly backing Seiveright who was elected vice chairman of the constituency last November.

READ: Seiveright formally enters race to replace Samuda in St Andrew North Central

However, a growing rift has developed within the party as attorney-at-law Christian Tavares-Finson has also declared his interest in the JLP safe seat.

Christian is the son of prominent attorney, Tom Tavares-Finson, who is also president of the Senate and a reported Andrew Holness loyalist.

Public commentators have pointed to what they say were steps made by Holness to appease both Samuda and Seiveright, with the latter’s recent appointment to the Senate by Holness, who also named him minister of state in the Ministry of Tourism.

However, Seiveright publicly stated his intention to contest the seat in recent weeks.

In a major development Tuesday he issued a short statement which states that, “After careful thought and discussion, I’ve made the decision to pause the campaign. This is not a withdrawal, far from it. It’s simply a moment to allow the party the space it needs to move forward in unity and strength,” said the tourism strategist.

“I’m truly grateful for the incredible support, encouragement, and energy you’ve all shown. I don’t take it lightly. But I’ve always said: no one is bigger than the party, and certainly no one is bigger than Jamaica,” Seiveright added.

Continuing, he said, “This pause is about staying focused on the bigger picture, ensuring we’re united, disciplined, and ready for the work ahead. I remain fully committed to North Central St Andrew and to all of you. My heart is in this, and I’m still here, serving, listening, and working with you every step of the way”.

Seiveright concluded his statement with, “Respect and gratitude always”.