CLARENDON, Jamaica — Several young people who turned out to vote in the general election in Clarendon South Western expressed a shared desire for meaningful development and improved opportunities in their communities.

Rushane Neil, a resident of Milk River, emphasised that for him, the focus is not on political party loyalty, but on which leadership will bring real economic progress.

“It’s not about the colours, it’s about where the economy will go,” Neil said. “We have the number one spa in Milk River, and based on research, we understand we’re sitting on a gold mine. We’re not making this about politics—we’re asking for development.”

Neil shared that he is a self-employed farmer and exporter and stressed the urgent need for sustainable investment and job creation in the constituency.

“I would love for this constituency to be developed in a way that creates jobs for young, qualified people. We need factories and proper infrastructure that support youth employment and entrepreneurship,” he added.

He further noted that while the community is full of potential, it remains largely untapped due to a lack of proper investment.

Onella Fraser, a first-time voter, said she was hopeful that her participation in the election would help bring about change.

“Today a me first time voting. Me just feel confident today to come put a X somewhere… We want better road, better everything,” Fraser shared with the Jamaica Observer.

Fraser’s hopes were echoed by other constituents who also spoke of the challenges facing their communities, particularly within the fishing industry.

Jerome, a fisherman from Milk River, voiced frustration over the lack of support for local fishers.

“We have nothing going down here for fishermen. We can’t make any money, and we still have to pay licence,” he said.

As polls closed across the constituency at 5:00 pm on Friday, supporters of the two major political parties were in celebratory moods, expressing confidence that their respective parties would be victorious.

The Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) candidate Robert Chin is going up against the PNP Lothan Cousins and Dwayne Thomas of the Jamaica Progressive Party (JPP) for the Clarendon South Western seat.

Lucian McIntosh, a PNP supporter, stated: “We a rep for one Lothan Cousins. The man with the plan. We nah work with Mr Chin.
South Manchester no want you, so wah we a do with you in South West? We have been having some issues and it relates to the governing JLP. Once 7:00 pm later, we a declare victory. One Markie G will be the new Prime Minister of Jamaica, and all the issues that the members of South West Clarendon have — all of that will be sorted.”

Meanwhile, Marleen, a JLP supporter, shared that she is confident Chin will emerge the victor.

“We need change in Milk River. Mr Lothan, you haven’t done anything for us in Milk River. Look at the road — nothing! He hasn’t done anything for us. Too long now, and he’s still not doing anything,” she said.

— Vanassa McKenzie