JLP condemns shooting incident in Kingston Central

The governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) is condemning an incident that occurred in the Kingston Central constituency last night, where gunshots were reportedly fired at Member of Parliament Donovan Williams and his campaign team.

While expressing gratitude that no one was hurt, Dr Christopher Tufton, chairman of the JLP’s campaign committee, said the incident is an offence to Jamaica’s democracy.

“We are confident that all well-thinking Jamaicans will join us in condemning the incident which represents an affront to our democratic processes. Mr Williams has been doing a good job in Central Kingston and he has the full support of the Jamaica Labour Party as he seeks re-election. The unfortunate incident should never be allowed to re-occur,” he said.

Tufton also urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation.

Reports reaching The Gleaner are that there was an exchange of gunfire between Williams’ campaign team and unidentified men, while they were in the area mounting political paraphernalia.

Williams has since released audio detailing the incident as he called for calm.

“While I was with my campaign team at the intersection of South Camp Road and Tower Street, a motor car approached. Several men exited the vehicle and opened fire at the team. We took evasive action and the men returned to the car and sped off,” Williams said.

A general election is expected by next month.

“I want to appeal to my supporters to remain calm. We will not be intimidated, but I appeal for calm,” Williams said.

The Kingston East police are probing the incident.

- Sashana Small

Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.