Devon Evans, Gleaner Writer

Ocho Rios, St. Ann:

Candidates from the ruling People's National Party (PNP) and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in the parish of St. Ann have signed the Political Code of Conduct, reaffirming their commitment to a peaceful election campaign.

The signing took place on Wednesday at the headquarters of the St. Ann police in St. Ann's Bay, under the chairmanship of Deputy Superintendent Clifford Herron. The signing was observed by representatives of a wide cross section of the St. Ann community.

Head of the St. Ann Police division, Superintendent Patricia Coulbourne-White, who organised the event, sai things remain relatively calm in most sections of the parish, she felt it was important for the candidates to sign the code thereby setting a clear example for their supporters to follow.

Those who have affixed their signature to the code are Lisa Hanna, PNP, and Peter Fakhourie, JLP - South East St. Ann; Shahine Robinson, JLP, and Oswest Senior-Smith, PNP - North East St. Ann; Ernest Smith, JLP, and Glenville Shaw, PNP - South West St. Ann and Othneil Lawrence, JLP, and Dr. Michael Whittingham, PNP - North West.

Violent or anti-social behaviour

Speaking on behalf of his JLP colleagues, MP Ernest Smith said members of his party had no intention of engaging in any form of violent or anti-social behaviour during the campaign.

Mr. Smith gave a firm commitment to the police and members of the public to uphold the peace. He expressed confidence in the ability of the police to carry out their duties impartially.

Mr. Senior-Smith, who spoke for the PNP, said his party supporters did not anticipate any violence or aggression. He hoped everyone would display a sense of maturity and peace throughout the campaign.