PNP Takes Legal Action Against Portmore Parish Status Legislation

The PNP has filed a legal suit against the legislation granting Portmore parish status, citing threats to democracy and allegations of gerrymandering by the JLP. Opposition Leader Mark Golding urges Prime Minister Holness to halt the bill’s implementation.

The People’s National Party (PNP) has initiated a lawsuit in the Constitutional Court aimed at halting the legislation that proposes to designate Portmore as the 15th parish of Jamaica. Opposition Leader Mark Golding announced the commencement of legal action during his remarks on the 2025/26 Budget Debate held at Gordon House on March 18, 2025.

Golding has called upon Prime Minister Andrew Holness to prevent this legislation from being enacted, emphasizing its potential detrimental impact on Jamaica’s democracy. He characterized the pursuit of this legislation as a serious threat and stated that it must be resisted through all legal channels available to the party.

The PNP accuses the governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) of engaging in gerrymandering practices that aim to secure a political advantage while undermining the preferences of the populace. The situation has raised significant concern regarding the integrity of democratic processes within the country.

In summary, the People’s National Party is taking a stand against the proposed elevation of Portmore to parish status by filing a lawsuit to challenge the legislation. Opposition Leader Mark Golding has strongly criticized the bill, indicating it poses a risk to democracy in Jamaica. The PNP alleges that the action reflects attempts by the JLP to manipulate political boundaries for electoral gain, highlighting the ongoing tensions in Jamaican politics.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com