JLP scales down annual conference

For the second consecutive year, the Jamaica Labour Party will forgo its customary mass public conference, after cancelling last year's staging in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, and instead hold a delegates-only meeting in Montego Bay on Sunday, November 15. Deputy Leader Desmond McKenzie announced on Friday, during a press conference at the JLP’s headquarters, that the 26th annual conference will be held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James, with approximately 6,000 delegates expected to attend. The decision means there will be no usual large-scale public rally, as the party seeks to show solidarity with Jamaicans still struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, particularly in western Jamaica. McKenzie said the party’s leadership had recommended a business-focused conference, a proposal which was approved by the party’s Central Executive. The meeting will begin at approximately 10 am and will address internal party matters, including the election of the party leader and deputy leaders. Former Member of Parliament and Deputy Leader JC Hutchinson will not be seeking re-election, while St James Central MP Heroy Clarke has been nominated to replace him, with his nomination to be ratified at the conference. Prime Minister and party leader Dr Andrew Holness is scheduled to deliver the main address at approximately 1:30 pm. His address will be open to the media and broadcast live, but the party’s other business will take place behind closed doors. JLP Deputy General Secretary Dr Andrew Wheatley said the party expects to hold a grand public session next year.