PNP commits to strengthening, nurturing ties with Maroon community

Dr Deborah Hickling Gordon, the recently appointed shadow spokesperson on culture and creative industries, has reportedly affirmed a commitment to strengthen the historical bond between the Maroon people and the People's National Party (PNP)

Hickling Gordon's promise came during a candid and spirited conversation with Chief Richard Currie of the Accompong Maroons.

The discussions were prompted by Currie's expressions of frustration regarding various governance matters at the recent Accompong celebrations in St Elizabeth over the weekend.

In a statement, the PNP said it acknowledged the concerns raised by Currie regarding institutional support from the current administration and that Hickling Gordon expressed determination to delve deeper into the challenges affecting Accompong, other Maroon communities, and indigenous peoples at large.

Currie had voiced his frustration with a range of issues primarily stemming from the lack of communication with the current government.

"The PNP acknowledges the paramount importance of upholding these long-standing relationships. The complexities faced by indigenous communities, both locally and globally, are significant but certainly not insurmountable," Hickling Gordon told the Accompong chief. "As PNP President Mark Golding has personally pledged, I am dedicated to facilitating further engagement and dialogue, rooted in inclusivity and mutual respect, to address the constitutional, landholding, and status-related issues identified amid the ongoing Constitutional changes."

Additionally, Hickling Gordon conveyed her intention to initiate communication with other Maroon leaders in positions of authority.

The PNP remains committed to nurturing cultural relations with all religious, social and cultural groupings in Jamaica.

The Gleaner had reported yesterday that, during the Accompong Maroon festival on the weekend, Currie had indicated that he believed the Maroons were being “marginalised, and subjugated, ridiculed and discriminated [against]”.