Another protest by PNP, residents against Portmore being a parish

Many members of the Opposition People's National Party (PNP) and residents took to the streets to continue to protest the government's decision to make Portmore Jamaica's 15th parish.

The demonstration caused a traffic snarl along Dawkins Drive, disrupting access to the toll road.

Among the protest leaders were Portmore Mayor Leon Thomas, Spanish Town Mayor Norman Scott, PNP spokesman on Portmore affairs Fitz Jackson, and several councillors from both municipalities.

Protesters, armed with placards, chanted slogans such as "No consultation, no parish," voicing their frustration over what they say is a lack of public engagement in the decision-making process.

On February 11, the government, leveraging its parliamentary majority, passed a bill to amend the Counties and Parishes Act of 1867 to establish Portmore as Jamaica's newest parish. The bill now moves to the Senate for approval before becoming law.

This marks the first time in 150 years that a new parish has been created in Jamaica, a move that has sparked heated debate among residents and local officials. While the government argues that parish status will provide greater autonomy and resources for Portmore, critics insist the decision should have involved more public consultation.

As tensions rise, all eyes are on the Senate's next move and whether continued opposition from residents and PNP leaders will influence the final outcome.

- Ruddy Mathison

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