With basic elections on the horizon, the Electoral Fee of Jamaica (ECJ) is urging political events and their supporters to uphold democratic values and display mutual respect all through the marketing campaign interval.
In an announcement issued Wednesday, the ECJ mentioned the decision comes amid rising experiences of political paraphernalia—resembling posters, banners, and flyers—being defaced, eliminated, or destroyed by people against the candidates or events they characterize.
“This behaviour undermines the spirit of democracy and peaceable political engagement. We perceive the fervour that comes with political campaigning, however we should all keep in mind that democracy thrives the place there may be mutual respect,” mentioned ECJ Chairman Earl Jarrett.
The Workplace of the Political Ombudsman additionally weighed in, reminding events and their supporters that each Jamaican has the precise to take part within the political course of with out concern or intimidation. That features the precise to publicly show and promote their political affiliations with out interference.
Political leaders had been particularly inspired to set the tone for unity, tolerance, and restraint of their rhetoric and actions.
The Political Ombudsman’s workplace confirmed it can proceed to observe marketing campaign actions and urged the general public to report any violations of the Settlement and Declaration on Political Conduct.
Complaints could be submitted in writing through the web portal at www.ecj.com.jm (click on on “Workplace of the Ombudsman Complaints Type”), emailed to [email protected], or delivered in particular person to the Workplace of the Political Ombudsman at 46 Duke Avenue, Kingston. The workplace will also be reached by cellphone at (876) 754-5845.
