MANCHESTER, Jamaica — People’s National Party (PNP) caretaker for Manchester North East, Valenton Wint, has strongly condemned recent remarks made by his Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) counterpart, Audrey Marks, who pledged to distribute 50 water tanks specifically to JLP workers to “look after them first”.

In a statement on Tuesday, Wint described Marks’ comment as a “blatant example of political tribalism” which he said “represents a dangerous approach to distributing resources”.

“It is appalling and deeply troubling that a candidate seeking to represent the people would openly declare that basic necessities like water storage tanks will be reserved for those aligned with her party,” he said. “This is not leadership, this is political corruption cloaked in partisanship.”

Emphasising that public resources, especially infrastructure like water tanks during a time of drought and water crisis, must never be used as political tools to reward loyalty, Wint said, “I certainly hope that it is not public resources that will be used to fund this partisan election promise from the JLP. Every Jamaican, regardless of party colour, deserves equal access to services and assistance. The role of an MP is to uplift the entire constituency, not just a select few wearing green shirts.”

Marks made the statement while addressing a meeting of JLP supporters on Sunday.

“We’re going to have workers’ meetings in each division, and we’re going to be carrying 50 black tanks for workers in each division, right away. I ask that we start filling out the forms,” she said.

“We’re starting with 50 this week… All the workers will be getting water because… pastor christen him pickney first…We’re going to look after you, workers in Manchester North East. We’re going to be looking after you first. Shower Labourites!” she added.

Wint has since rejected what he described as a “vulgar, divisive and outdated style of politics”, noting that should he become the next Member of Parliament for Manchester North East, he will ensure fairness and good governance at the core of every action.

“All citizens, whether you support the PNP, the JLP, or no party at all, will be assisted as long as they are in need,” he said.

“I urge voters to demand higher standards from those seeking public office. We must put an end to the use of state resources as political gifts. The time for better governance and people-centred representation is now,” Wint added.