Bloomfield back in!
DESPITE getting the nod from delegates to represent the governing People’s National Party (PNP) in Portland Eastern in upcoming parliamentary elections, attorney-at-law Andrea Moore is not expected to contest the seat, at least not on a PNP ticket.
Moore defeated incumbent Member of Parliament Dr Lynvale Bloomfield by eight votes in the candidate selection run-off last month, polling 141 to Bloomfield’s 133. However, it has been widely speculated that the party’s hierarchy did not ratify Moore, overruling the decision of the delegates of that rural constituency.
Bloomfield, who was dealt a massive blow in the run-off, told the Jamaica Observer yesterday, that he will represent the party in the much-talked-about general election, which is constitutionally due in December 2016.
“Based on the experience and what we know on the ground, they have done their polls and have come up with the idea that I am the best candidate going forward,” Bloomfield said.
“They have made their summations; they have looked at all the relevant factors. That is what we do when we’re selecting a candidate; we find the best person suited to represent the party in winning the election and to represent as member of parliament in a holistic way,” he added.
And while general secretary of the PNP Paul Burke said he was not authorised to speak on whether the delegate’s decision has been overruled, the first-time MP said he is “absolutely confident” that he will retain the seat for the ruling party.
The Observer attempted to contact Moore for a comment; however, calls and text messages to her phone went unanswered.
— Kimone Francis