Ombudsman probes alleged breaches of the code
Published:Thursday | July 3, 2025 | 12:08 AM
The Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ), in its role as political ombudsman, says it is currently investigating complaints involving allegations of intimidation, inflammatory political speech, and public disorder. It is also looking into reports of defacement of political material and conduct deemed contrary to the spirit of non-confrontational and peaceful campaigning.
Responding to queries from The Gleaner, the political ombudsman said between March 18 and June 2 this year, eight complaints were received and formally processed. Of the complaints made to the political referee, six were submitted by members of the two major political parties and two by advocacy groups.
The political ombudsman said it has formally acknowledged the complaints through written correspondence. It noted that the matter involving Montego Bay Mayor Richard Vernon is currently before the courts.
“The political ombudsman retains the matter under consideration,” it said.
Preliminary investigations have started in relation to the remaining seven cases.
Meanwhile, the political ombudsman said it is maintaining a watchful eye on the conduct of political parties and candidates as campaigning intensifies ahead of the general election.
In a news release yesterday, the ombudsman said it has taken note of flags, display boards and other paraphernalia erected, as well as public utterances from political actors.
The ombudsman said it has been in dialogue with the general secretaries of the People’s National Party and the Jamaica Labour Party concerning complaints raised against their members and their continued commitment to maintaining the highest standards of political conduct.
The ombudsman said political players and members of the public are reminded that intimidation, inflammatory political speech, public disorder, defacement of political material, and conduct deemed contrary to the spirit of non-confrontational and peaceful campaigning are against the Political Code of Conduct.