KINGSTON, Jamaica – In response to a recent spike in political misconduct, the political ombudsman met on Wednesday with the general secretaries of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the opposition People’s National Party (PNP) to address concerns ahead of the upcoming General Election.

At the meeting, the general secretaries of both major parties expressed shared concern over recent incidents involving the tearing down and unauthorised removal of campaign signs and other political materials.

In a statement release, both general secretaries alongside the political ombudsman condemned such acts and called for civility in the political process.

The joint statement emphasised that vandalism of campaign signs and destruction of property are not only violations of democratic rights but also threaten to escalate political divisions and undermine Jamaica’s long-standing reputation for peaceful and fair elections.

Both the JLP and PNP reaffirmed their commitment to the principles outlined in the Code of Political Conduct and pledged to guide their supporters in upholding those values. The parties are urging all Jamaicans to join in rejecting violence and intimidation, and to help ensure a respectful and peaceful campaign season.

The political ombudsman endorsed the parties’ call for calm, noting the importance of preserving the progress made over decades in building a strong, functioning democracy.