Local Government Minister wants KSAMC quarrel investigated

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has requested an investigation into an incident at Tuesday’s meeting of the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), in which two councillors traded angry words over the country’s crime situation.

Councillor Kari Douglas of the People’s National Party (PNP), who represents the Trafalgar division, had reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with what she said was some people politicising crime and violence.

Councillor for the Norbrook Division Susan Senior reportedly suggested that the PNP was responsible for the murders being committed, which led to an escalation of tension between the two members. 

In a statement on Wednesday morning, the Local Government Minister said he had asked Mayor Delroy Williams, Chairman of the Municipal Corporation, to investigate the matter.

Mayor Williams was not at the sitting at the time of the clash.

Mr. McKenzie has condemned the incident, saying it is clear that there are elected representatives who still lack a clear understanding of their roles and collective mission as members of the Municipal Corporation.

He said he will not allow the significant gains made to improve the image of Local Government to be eroded.