Jamaica: More Contention Within The PNP

More contention: There are still signs of discord within the 82-year-old People’s National Party, despite previous declarations of unity among members.

In September, then President of the Party, Dr. Peter Phillips appointed businessman, Norman Horne to the Senate. However, he was not sworn in as speculations came about regarding him being a citizen of the United States.

He subsequently entered the presidential race, which was short lived, as he opted out.

In October, he decided to forgo his Senate position on the basis that the new party president  when elected should be able to appoint Senators of his or her choice.

However, he did not formally indicate this to the Governor General which means the recent appointment of Peter Bunting to the Senate cannot be legal until Horne’s appointment is rescinded.

And even so, it seems as if that seat is being held at ransom.

Horne reportedly wrote to then General Secretary Julian Robinson in October, with an aim to have money owed to him repaid.

CVM LIVE understands that until Horne is reimbursed, the Senate appointment of Bunting is at a standstill.

Meanwhile, in the Senate on Friday, Leader of Opposition Business in the Upper House, Donna Scott Mottley formally announced that it will be her last time in the post.

Bunting is expected to also take up that position.

It is uncertain what will transpire with such a predicament, calls to Norman Horne went unanswered and there has been no official response from the party.

But it is quiet evident that internal disagreements within an apparently still divided party, continue to play out in the public.