Spencer
Robert Hart, Staff Reporter
SENATOR KERN Spencer has opted to demit office as president of the People's National Party Youth Organisation (PNPYO) after serving two terms.
Senator Spencer, who is also Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, told The Gleaner on Thursday that he felt it was time for new blood to be injected into the leadership of the youth arm of the governing People's National Party (PNP).
"I believe in term limits and I think I have trained enough people who can effectively manage the organisation," said Spencer, who wants to replace Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke as the PNP's representative for the St. Elizabeth North East constituency in the next general election, constitutionally due by 2007.
And about his chances of becoming the next Member of Parliament for the constituency when Clarke retires, he said: "I feel confident based on the response I have been getting on the ground."
Senator Spencer, who has been a member of the PNPYO for the past eight years, however, conceded that his decision against running for re-election was also prompted by the number of responsibilities he has taken on within the Government and the party.
In addition to his senatorial duties and his post in the National Security Ministry, he cited his appointment as co-ordinator of the party's Region Five Political Education and Outreach Programme which encompasses all of eight constituencies, including those in St. Elizabeth and Manchester.
"It's a whole lot for one person to deal with," he said.
Elections for the new PNPYO presidency will be held in mid-July at St. Elizabeth Technical High School. Two persons have so far declared their candidacy.
They are Andrew O'Kola, current general secretary, and Michael Palmer, the organisation's Region Three chairman.
Delegates will, during the election, also decide on new vice-presidential and general secretary posts. The delegate groups will have until June 28 to register, followed by an extension period for verification.
