Seiveright Applies To Represent JLP In North Central St. Andrew; Triggers Possible Run Off

Senator Delano Seiveright has applied to replace Karl Samuda as the Jamaica Labour Party’s, JLP, standard-bearer in North Central St. Andrew.

He made the announcement in a video note to party workers Friday morning.

The senator says he made the decision after careful reflection and with the full support of the sitting Member of Parliament, Karl Samuda. Samuda has represented the constituency since 1980. He has the distinction of having the seat on both JLP and People’s National Party tickets.

Senator Seiveright says he also has the backing of the two sitting councillors, Lee Clarke and Susan Senior.

It’s understood the move to formally declare his interest in being the party’s candidate in the traditionally safe JLP seat has raised eyebrows within the party.

Nationwide sources say son of JLP veteran and Senate President, Tom Tavares Finson, Christian Tavares Finson, was to have shortly been named the party’s standard-bearer in the constituency.

Seiveright’s announcement upends those plans and sets up the possibility of a high stakes run off in the constituency against the younger Tavares Finson. This would send the JLP machinery into yet another run off to select a caretaker, months before a general election. The constituencies of South Manchester, North West Clarendon and Western Westmoreland all held candidate selection contests in recent weeks.

Seiveright, who has served in JLP politics for the last 22 years, was recently elevated to the Senate and made Junior Minister of Tourism. He previously served as senior strategist in the tourism ministry.

Political observers had questioned whether his elevation was in an effort to avoid a run off in North Central St. Andrew.

Seiveright ended his announcement by making clear what he says is his regard for Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

“I also want to clearly state my absolute respect for our Leader, the Most Honourable Andrew Holness. His vision, leadership and rapid elevation from humble beginnings remain a key guiding light for me, and I am committed to supporting him and the mission of the JLP as we move forward,” he said.

“This journey is not about seeking a position but about partnership, unity, and delivering meaningful results for the people. I thank you all for your continued belief and encouragement. Let’s keep moving forward together, focused, united, and ready to do the work,” he added.