Matthew Samuda files defamation suit against the PNP's St Ann NE caretaker
Published:Wednesday | September 18, 2024 | 8:01 AM
Jamaica Labour Party candidate for St Ann North East and former Cabinet minister, Matthew Samuda, has filed a defamation suit against People's National Party caretaker for the constituency, Ryan Simpson.
The suit was filed in the Supreme Court in downtown Kingston on Tuesday by attorney, Patrick Foster, KC, from the law firm Nunes, Scholefield, DeLeon & Co.
Samuda has sued Simpson in connection with allegations the PNP candidate reportedly made on social media platforms including TikTok and Instagram on July 21 and 27.
He is seeking damages, including aggravated damages, interest, costs and any other relief the court deems fit.
Samuda's lawyer stated in Court documents that in making and publishing the defamatory statements on social media, Simpson was motivated by malice and his intention to injure and/or lower him in the estimation of right-thinking members of society.
The lawyer for Samuda says Simpson made the comments to harm the JLP candidate's reputation, particularly in circumstances where both he and Samuda are political opponents in the constituency of St Ann North East.
Samuda resigned from the Senate and Cabinet to a few weeks ago to make himself available to contest the by-election in the constituency, which is to take place on September 30.
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