PEARNEL CHARLES, 67, the veteran Jamaica Labour Party politician, yesterday formally announced his intention to contest the top leadership post in the JLP in November, when current leader Edward Seaga steps down, and said he had Mr. Seaga's backing.
Mr. Charles, who was addressing the Lions Club of Kingston's luncheon meeting at The Courtleigh hotel, New Kingston, said he was presenting himself as a candidate "not based on anybody or group or faction, but rather on my personal merit and track record."
Outlining some of his plans, if elected, the former JLP deputy leader said: "Our party will be a great force in the nation for the crusade of moral regeneration, economic reconstruction, social redirection and renewal."
Under his leadership, the JLP "will be a force to ensure social justice, fair play and the restoration of good order and security. It will be decisive, sharply focused and incorruptible," he said.
Mr. Charles promised that, if elected, he would, "ensure that justice, equity and fairness become entrenched in our culture. These are virtues that will make our country a truly progressive developing nation."
POOR MANAGEMENT
The Member of Parliament for Clarendon North Central said that the levels of poverty and economic insecurity now facing the country were the result of poor management by the government.
"What is required is sincere leadership with a vision and purpose," he said. "As a part of the leadership of this nation I have a defined vision and a clear mission meant to restore hope and confidence in the average Jamaican."
Responding to questions on the level of support he has received, Mr. Charles indicated that Mr. Seaga was among those in his corner. "He (Mr. Seaga) has wished me well and said 'Go with God'. I thank him for that. I respect him for his experience, I respect him for his commitment to good governance."
Mr. Charles said he would be meeting with his political colleagues, trade union colleagues, delegates of the party, members of the private sector and at the constituency level about his decision.
Addressing the intention of Bruce Golding, his brother-in-law and JLP chairman who is being touted as the front-runner for the leadership post, Mr. Charles said, "At present I am the only person who has accepted to represent the Labour Party as its leader and next Prime Minister."
