KINGSTON, Jamaica – The governing People’s National Party (PNP) described as “baseless” an assertion by Opposition Leader Andrew Holness that the only way for Jamaicans to be safe from crime was to vote JLP.
A news release from the PNP on Monday described Holness’ statement as “totally cynical and without thought” as he has failed to offer “any hint of a crime plan”.
“This is yet another instance of Mr Holness making cavalier and irresponsible statements in a misguided effort to gain political mileage. It is particularly disturbing when such statements are made in relation to issues concerning national security which requires sober and responsible analysis and attention. The People’s National Party strongly urges Mr Holness to exercise the level of responsibility expected of one who aspires to lead,” the PNP release said.
According to the PNP, there were 1 682 reported murders in 2009 when the Jamaica Labour Party was in office. The party argued that that figure represents the highest number of murders reported in any one year and that only last year, under the PNP Government, 1 005 murders were reported – the lowest in 11 years.
“The fact is, crime fighting is a serious national issue with multiple causal factors and responses; and so to reduce it to nonsensical statements, even in the heightened atmosphere of a political campaign rally, is to disrespect the intelligence of the Jamaican people,” the release added.
The party said while the current murder figure is still above acceptable levels, so far this year, many categories of serious and violent crimes are all down.
The PNP said shootings went down by eight per cent, rape by 25 per cent, aggravated assault by 14 per cent, and robberies by 16 per cent.
“Such a critical problem, with deep sociological roots, demands a sober and analytical response which should be bipartisan and not subject to nonsensical ramblings by the Opposition on their political platforms,” said the PNP release.
At the same time, the PNP questioned Holness’ confidence in asserting that crime goes up under a PNP Government; who is responsible; and who would have a motive to push these statistics. (Observer)
