PNP says no debates whatsoever

It’s now certain that the political debates are off.

The People’s National Party (PNP) late Wednesday evening released a copy of its letter to the Jamaica Debates Commission (JDC) saying it will not participate in the debate “at any level whatsoever”.

The JDC had asked the PNP and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) to respond by Thursday afternoon at 5 p.m. on whether they would participate in three debates rescheduled to this weekend.

See the PNP’s letter below:

Mr. Noel daCosta
Chairman
Jamaica Debates Commission
C/o The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce
12 Ocean Boulevard
Kingston

Dear Mr. daCosta

Greetings and best wishes

After taking a number of factors into account and having given JLP Leader, Mr Andrew Holness, more than  adequate time and opportunity to address the issues placed before him as conditions for the People' s National Party's involvement in the National Debates, the People's National Party has no other option, but to stand by its original position. This position has already been communicated to you and the wider public.

Furthermore, based on the attitude of Mr. Holness and the fact that we find his answers to the integrity issues lacking, unsatisfactory and not credible, which is one matter; but equally important, is his obstinate refusal to do the right thing and apologise to the President of the People's National Party and for his retraction and apology for his irresponsible and potentially dangerous statement at Sam Sharpe Square on Sunday 7th February, leaves us with us with no other option, but to decline.

We will not compromise on our principles.

We, therefore, will not be able to participate in the debates at any level whatsoever.

Yours Respectfully

Paul Burke
General Secretary