PNP condemns suspension of medical doctor for running in general election
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) is criticising the Southern Regional Health Authority’s (SRHA) decision to interdict Dr Aujae Dixon following his participation as a candidate in the recent general elections held on September 3, 2025.
Dr Dixon was reportedly suspended from his duties by the SRHA citing breaches of the Public Service Staff Order 4.2.6(1), which prohibits public officers from engaging in partisan political activity.
The PNP claims that this interdiction violates Dixon’s constitutional rights to freedom of expression and association.
In a statement on Wednesday, Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, Zuleika Jess, denounced SRHA’s action, stating, “This action undermines civic participation and threatens the very freedoms our democracy is meant to protect. Such a move, whether the result of an overly zealous application of policy or misinterpretation of staff orders, has the effect of silencing those who seek to exercise their constitutional rights.”
The PNP is demanding the immediate reinstatement of Dr Dixon and has urged the SRHA to reverse its decision without delay. The party argues that the interdiction sets a dangerous precedent for public servants who wish to engage in the political process without fear of retribution.
The statement also referenced recent legal developments in the Caribbean, including court rulings in Barbados which “struck down” similar staff orders as unconstitutional. The PNP is calling for Jamaica to follow suit, urging a review and overhaul of current public service regulations.
The party reaffirmed its support for Dr Dixon and emphasised that suppressing the democratic rights of public servants has no place in a modern, free and fair Jamaica.
“The People’s National Party stands firmly with Dr Dixon in pursuit of justice and equality, and urges the Government to uphold the principles of democracy.”
Dr Dixon had challenged the Jamaica Labour Party’s Robert Nesta Morgan in Clarendon North Central but fell short of flipping control of the seat in the PNP’s favour.
