KINGSTON, Jamaica — Leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Prime Minister Andrew Holness has instructed party representatives to conduct themselves with the “highest standards”.

In a letter from Holness to JLP representatives obtained by Observer Online, the prime minister stated: “Candidates and others representing the Jamaica Labour Party platform have a duty to the people, the law and mores of our nation, to conduct ourselves with regard for the highest standards. We are not in a race with the opponent to the gutter.”

It went on to add that in the coming days, the secretariat will be in direct contact with members to review the party’s operational standards for candidates and other representatives and “reaffirm compliance and disciplined adherence”.

“We are forming a pact with the Jamaican people to lift everyone to the highest levels of achievement and fulfilment. Conduct and statements, which suggest or promote discrimination, violence, racism, misogyny, bigotry, objectification, or any form of vulgarity must not be a part of our platform. Such conduct is not who we are or aspire to be as a people and a political organisation,” Holness said.

The letter comes a day after Member of Parliament Everald Warmington issued an apology after repeatedly cursing during a JLP event on Sunday.

READ: Warmington under fire for ‘close your eyes and vote for Holness’ comment

READ: Warmington apologises, withdraws controversial remarks made at JLP event

In addition to Warmington’s comments on Sunday, multiple members of the JLP have traded words with the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) regarding the race of PNP President Mark Golding including a “Massa Mark” comment by former Finance Minister Nigel Clarke that sent Parliament into chaos in 2023.

READ: ‘Massa Mark’ passa passa

Warmington also made comments regarding Golding’s race, for which he came under fire.

“By our conduct let us show we are the best choice for Jamaica,” Holness stated in the letter.