Former PNP Aspirant Lawrence Rowe Charged Following Viral Confrontation Video

Kingston, Jamaica – June 3, 2025 — Former People’s National Party (PNP) political aspirant Lawrence Rowe has been charged with assault at common law, following a confrontation that was caught on camera and widely circulated on social media.

The incident, which has stirred public discussion, shows Rowe approaching another man with a knife concealed behind his back. In the video, Rowe is heard saying, “Do what you need fi do ‘cause you bad… Deal wid it, deal wid it ‘cause you bad,” as he aggressively confronted the individual, who appeared to be trying to defuse the situation.

The man repeatedly denied provoking Rowe, asking, “Lawrence, but me nah do you nutten. Why you a gi me badniss?” A woman off-camera could also be heard stating that it was Rowe who “come up yah fi di man.”

The tension escalated when the man touched Rowe on the shoulder in a gesture seemingly meant to calm things down, prompting Rowe to shove him and shout, “Don’t touch me either.”

Superintendent Beresford Williams, commanding officer for the Kingston Central Police Division, confirmed that Rowe was charged on Monday after the man involved in the incident filed an official complaint with the police.

Rowe has since been granted station bail as investigations continue.

Following the controversy, the PNP distanced itself from Rowe, removing him as the party’s representative for the Kingston Central constituency. He has been replaced by retired senior police officer Steve McGregor.

The incident has sparked concerns about the conduct of public figures and the potential consequences of political aspirants engaging in threatening behavior.