PNP insists it won local government polls

The Opposition People's National Party (PNP) is claiming a "resounding" and "undisputed" victory in the local government elections, contrary to the Electoral Office of Jamaica's final summary of the election results.

"Yes, PNP won the election! The time has come for brief celebration and for us to quickly return our focus to serving the people of Jamaica." PNP general secretary, Dr Dayton Campbell, said in a media release on Friday.

The EOJ earlier said Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) candidates won the majority of divisions in seven parishes, while candidates for the PNP won in five parishes.

However, the PNP, which won the Portmore mayoral race, has added the municipality to its tally. Councillors in Portmore sit in both the St Catherine Municipal Corporation and the Portmore Municipal Corporation.

The PNP also claims victory in the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation, based on the fact that it won the popular vote in Kingston and St Andrew.

Based on the PNP's tabulation, the parties each now control seven municipal corporations.

The PNP says it emerged as the frontrunner by winning more divisions across Jamaica, securing 115 out of 228 divisions, up from 98 in 2016.

"The PNP's triumph extends beyond seat acquisitions, with a significant victory in the Popular Vote. The Popular Vote represents the aggregate number of votes cast for the PNP across Jamaica, totalling an impressive 303,852 votes compared to the JLP's 282,534 votes," the party said.

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