BUFF BAY, Portland — Voting in Portland went smoothly yesterday, as a total of five candidates put themselves up to represent the parish’s two constituencies in Parliament.

The Portland Western seat was contested by Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) incumbent Daryl Vaz and Vernon Hemmings of the People’s National Party (PNP).

The Portland Eastern constituency had three candidates — incumbent Dr Lynvale Bloomfield (PNP), Derron Wood (JLP), and Dr Dennis Minott representing his newly formed party HOPE (Hope for Portland East).

There were no reports of any major issues at the parish’s polling stations, with many opening on time.

It was a carnival-like atmosphere as supporters of the two main political parties mingled on the road with each other.

Vaz, who was seen at Buff Bay Primary in the afternoon, said that he was “pleased” with the voting process.

“Despite slight glitches at Buff Bay Primary, those were corrected and persons were entering the compound,” he shared.

At Hope Bay, Hemmings was bubbling with confidence.

“We are looking exceptionally good so far and I am pleased with what I’m hearing. It has been hard work from day one and we seem to be reaping the success now. We are going to be victorious,” he told the

Jamaica Observer at about midday.

Meanwhile, residents in the coffee farming areas of Shirley Castle and Claverty Cottage said they were looking forward to a change in leadership for the constituency,.

“Farming is essential to our survival and we would want someone who will pay attention to the farmers,” one farmer told the

Observer.

— Everard Owen