Showdown Looms As Delroy Williams & May Pen Mayor Vie For Central Clarendon

Mayor of May Pen, Joel Williams is accusing Deputy General Secretary of the JLP and government Senator, Delroy Williams, of disrespecting outgoing Member of Parliament for Central Clarendon, Mike Henry.

This comes after Senator Williams confirmed that he has applied to represent the party in the JLP stronghold in the next General Election.

Robian Williams reports.

The runoff in Central Clarendon for the JLP, is shaping up to be a battle of the Williamses.

Both Senator Delroy Williams and Mayor of May Pen, Joel Williams, are eyeing the seat with a view of replacing outgoing veteran MP, Mike Henry.

Senator Williams has applied to be the JLP’s next Central Clarendon candidate.

But Mayor Williams asserts that, to his knowledge, Senator Williams has not reached out to Mr. Henry regarding his interest in the seat, a move he believes is discourteous.

Senator Delroy Williams’ application has stirred controversy, particularly given that Mr. Henry has long endorsed Mayor Williams as his preferred successor.

When asked about this latest development, Mr. Henry says he wishes to stay out of the public glare.

He notes that the JLP has its internal process to select a candidate.

Mr. Henry has served as the parliamentary representative for Central Clarendon since 1980.

Mayor Williams insists that Senator Williams should have shown Mr. Henry the courtesy of a discussion before submitting his application.

Nationwide News understands that JLP delegates in the constituency are divided on the matter.

Some believe Mayor Williams deserves the seat, given his work in the constituency.

Others argue that Senator Williams has brought renewed energy and is better suited for the role.

Despite the impending contest, Mayor Williams remains confident that he can secure the seat for the JLP.

Nationwide News understands that Mayor Williams met this afternoon with JLP Leader and Prime Minister, Andrew Holness. This was part of efforts to resolve amicably the issue of who will carry the JLP banner in Central Clarendon.