PNP defends Wellington over ‘war’ remark, accuses JLP of targeting outspoken women
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) says it is standing behind its caretaker in St Elizabeth South West, Miranda Wellington, against what what it calls “a coordinated smear campaign by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), aimed at silencing outspoken female candidates through distortion, intimidation, and political hostility.”
At a recent community meeting, Wellington stated, “This is not going to be an easy victory, but I want you to know that we are prepared for war, and if a war, a war.”
Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Senator and Senior Communications Task Force member, Marlon Morgan, condemned the remarks as “vile” and called for an apology.
Accusing the Office of the Political Ombudsman of being too slow to act, Campbell also referenced what he described as Daryl Vaz’s repeated throat-slitting gestures on political platforms, Everald Warmington’s long history of verbal abuse, and Desmond McKenzie’s inflammatory remarks over the years.
“These patterns are well known, and yet not once has the JLP leadership publicly condemned or addressed them. Instead, they attack our women when they speak with passion and purpose,” he said.
The PNP indicated it has implemented additional security and protection protocols for its female representatives and campaign teams. The party is also renewing its call on law enforcement, civil society, and the public to safeguard the democratic process and uphold the dignity and safety of all candidates, especially women.
