Dear Editor,

The last time Jamaicans went to the polls in a parliamentary election was on September 3, 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This election was also called several months before it was constitutionally due. During that election cycle, the incumbent Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) defeated the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP). This election defeat resulted in the JLP being at the helm of Government for a second consecutive term when the 14th Parliament of Jamaica was convened in Gordon House on September 15, 2020.

Based on this timeline, a general election is imminent and the Opposition PNP has been egging on Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness to call the election, often chanting from political platforms, “Call it, Andrew, call it!” The prime minister has chosen to ignore these calls so far.

At present, the constitution of Jamaica does not prescribe a fixed election date. However, the prime minister is accorded flexibility in announcing the election date by following certain constitutional guidelines. While the constitution affords this flexibility, there have been calls over the years from civil society, the citizenry, and both political parties for a fixed election date to prevent the Government of the day from calling elections at a time that is politically advantageous. Such a move would likely create the environment for a fair and civil electoral process.

This election cycle, the Opposition PNP is vociferous in its calls for Jamaicans to go to the polls. At the moment, polling data shows it leading as the party of choice to form the next Government when the election is called.

The Opposition has also been accusing the Government of refusing to call the election because the political climate is not favourable for it. This has been a common theme throughout every election cycle.

Dr Nathaniel Muir

nathanielmuir@gmail.com