Peaceful Local Government Election

Jamaicans went to the Polls on Thursday 19 June 2003 to vote for their local councilors. It is widely accepted that this Local Government Election was the smoothest and most peaceful of election days experienced in Jamaica since the 1980’s, when elections began to be seriously marred by voter intimidation and violence.

The Jamaica Defence Force worked closely with the Civil Power to ensure that the people of Jamaica could exercise their right to vote. Much preparation, reconnaissance and coordinated planning took place before the day. As such everyone who wanted to vote were able to do so freely and privately.

The three infantry Battalions, 1st Battalion the Jamaica Regiment, 2nd Battalion the Jamaica Regiment and the 3rd Battalion the Jamaica Regiment (National Reserve), were deployed across the country to secure the Polling Stations and Counting Centres and to ensure free movement of the public.

The soldiers were in position long before the Polling Stations opened for voting, to secure the location and the staff who worked on the day. The soldiers also vigilantly patrolled the streets with the police.

The security force preparedness and vigilance paid off and voting proceeded smoothly.  The few isolated minor squabbles which were squashed without incident.

Jamaica Local Government is the second level tier of Government made up of elected councillors who become the first point of contact for the citizens to deal with such matters such as health and social infrastructures.