PNP Candidate Michael Stewart accused of Breaching Political Code of Conduct

Audley Shaw, JLP MP for Central Manchester has released a letter bearing Michael Stewart’s signature. In that letter Stewart clear stated that he would not give a Councillor sponsorship/ contribution to “a sporting” project due to his political affiliation. The Coucillor is from the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).

Constitutional Breach

It is breach of the Jamaican Constitution for anyone to be discriminated against on the grounds of “race, colour, religion, or political affiliation. Shaw called for Stewart’s resignation.

School’s Letterhead

The offending letter was written on the school’s official letterhead. A clear breach of trust and power.

Stewart is Principal of Porus High School, and chairman of the Southern Regional Health Authority. Stewart has not denied that the letter was from his office. He has apologized for his poor judgement. Stewart is a former President of the powerful Jamaica Teacher’s Association (JTA)….. of some 18,000 members.

19 Dead Baby Scandal

Stewart previously got into hot waters regarding a letter he signed jointly with 4 other Regional Health board chairmen “expressing full confidence” in then embattled Health Minister Dr. Fenton Ferguson now transferred by PM. …. in a Cabinet shuffle. As a public servant such conduct was deemed as unacceptable …… as it was also seen as wading into the political arena ….. a no no for public servants.

Apologized

This apparent Constitutional breach, and of the Code of Conduct by Stewart could be grounds for criminal proceedings against the PNP caretaker/candidate for South Manchester.

Stewart has since apologized for his action.

by Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie, senior international correspondent & photojournalist, for Vision Newspaper Canada.