Voter Turnout Steady in Morant Bay, St. Thomas as By-Election for Councillor Continues

Morant Bay, St. Thomas – Voting is progressing “slow but steady” in the St. Thomas Eastern constituency, where residents are heading to the polls to elect a new councillor for the Morant Bay Division. The division has been without representation since May of this year, following the passing of the previous councillor.

This morning, 39 polling stations across 19 locations opened promptly at 7:00 a.m., with both the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) Winston Downie and the People’s National Party’s (PNP) Rosemarie Shaw battling it out for the seat.

The Jamaica Observer visited eight polling stations in the Morant Bay area and found that the day so far has been uneventful, but hopeful. Election workers for both parties reported that the turnout, while not overwhelming, has been consistent.

“We are fine. PNP river come down bank to bank,” one PNP election day worker told the Observer, referencing the party’s hopes for a strong turnout in the division.

Denise Daley of the PNP, who was seen at the New Testament Church of God in Morant Bay, which houses three polling stations, commented, “It’s very good. People are slowly coming out, but it’s quite orderly. It’s clear that people have made their preparations and are ready to vote.”

At the Morant Bay Primary School, where five polling stations are located, things were similarly described as “smooth” by a police officer on duty. He noted that there were a few minor hiccups, such as voters arriving without proper identification. However, in those instances, individuals were allowed to swear or be affirmed as per electoral laws.

Election officials are optimistic that the day will continue without significant issues, with both parties showing strong support among their bases.

Some 75,000 Jamaicans are eligible to vote in the four by-elections taking place today, with the Morant Bay race among the most closely watched. Voters in other constituencies, including St. Andrew North Western and Trelawny Southern, are also going to the polls to elect new Members of Parliament, while Aenon Town in Clarendon and Morant Bay in St. Thomas will see local government elections.

The PNP has opted not to contest the parliamentary by-elections but has nominated candidates for the local government elections. Meanwhile, the ruling JLP is fielding candidates in all four races.

As voting continues, candidates, election officials, and voters alike remain hopeful for a smooth and peaceful conclusion to the day’s activities.