Jamaican diaspora closely monitoring local government elections

BY RUSHANE FERRON

Jamaicans living abroad are buzzing with anticipation as the February 26^th, 2024, local government elections draw nearer. Despite being miles away from their homeland, members of the Jamaican diaspora are closely following the political developments back home. In some Jamaican eateries, supermarkets, barbershops and salons across the diaspora, the excitement is palpable. They are eager to see whether the incumbent Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) will secure another term or will be overthrown by the People’s National Party (PNP).

With technology bridging the gap between nations, Jamaicans around the world are staying connected through social media for the latest developments. From the bustling streets of New York City, USA to the serene suburbs of London, England, Jamaican expatriates are actively engaging in discussions on social media about the upcoming elections and its potential impact in their communities.

For many in the diaspora, the local government elections represent an opportunity for them to contribute to the democratic process and have a say in the direction of their beloved Jamaica, particularly the development of their communities. Some Jamaicans continue to support their favourite party through financial donations, spreading awareness among fellow Jamaicans abroad, and participating in heated online political discussions, while others are expecting to return home to cast their ballots.

Local government elections were last held in 2016. They are constitutionally due every four years; however, the elections were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are 14 parishes in Jamaica. These parishes are divided into 63 constituencies, which are then sub-divided into 228 electoral divisions. Candidates vie for a seat in these electoral divisions to serve as councilors. An election is also held to elect a mayor for the Portmore Municipal Corporation.

A staunch supporter of the PNP, Ralston Chamberlain, who is based in Toronto, Canada, explained that “The people in the diaspora, especially the PNP supporters are excited about the local government elections. The people are fired up because, after so many postponements, they are now able to vote for candidates who will hopefully champion their issues. Never again should a democratic process be used for political expediency.”

Otis Codling, Vice President of G2K, who recently migrated to Canada, expressed confidence that the Jamaica Labour Party will be victorious at the polls on February 26^th.

“Since coming into power in 2016, the growth and achievements of this government have been tremendous. There have been no new taxes, the lowest unemployment rate in history, massive infrastructure development right across the island, an increase in income tax threshold, reduction in the NHT interest rate, and an increase in the amount persons can qualify for towards buying a home. These are just a few of the achievements and I am positive that if we remain in power, the vision 2030 is very much achievable,” Codling added.

However, Junior Shadow Spokesperson on Justice and Human Rights in the PNP, Shari-Ann Henry, believes that Jamaicans are frustrated with the JLP-led government and are “Yearning for meaningful change.”

“Many Jamaicans in the diaspora are concerned about the country’s trajectory and about the instances of shoddy governance and the lukewarm approach to crime management. The PNP is ready to change that narrative. With our Comrade Leader, Mark Jefferson Golding emphasizing the importance of integrity and accountability in governance, spreading his genuine love and care throughout Jamaica, a wind of change is blowing. TIME COME!” Henry exclaimed.

Camille Bailey, Clinical Administrative Assistant based in London, England, is hoping that candidates will fulfill their promises.

LaMoya Hunter, a Jamaican based in the USA, said she is hoping that peace and good sense will prevail throughout the local government elections.

“My only hope is that the campaigns are done peacefully, and regardless of what the outcome is, my people will be able to accept the results and find a way to work collectively in building a Jamaica that we in the diaspora can be happy to return to,” Hunter said.