PNP condemns murder of Councillor Ainsley Parkins

 

The People's National Party says it is deeply shocked and saddened by the murder of Ainsley Parkins.

 

The party says it condemns this "heinous act of violence" and called on the police to conduct a swift, thorough and impartial investigation.

 

Describing Mr. Parkins as an outstanding public servant, the PNP says it is closely monitoring the investigation into his murder.

 

PNP Vice President Mikael Phillips told Radio Jamaica News that the killing of Mr. Parkins while he was on the job is "a sad day" for the party and the country. 

 

He lamented that the murder took place the councillor's own division. 

 

"It also makes me as a political representative have to think twice of how it is that we even traverse our constituencies and our divisions. It shows that even if you have a disagreement that you are not safe in that space. But it's a sad day for the country because it shows that you can be on your job and you can just stop inquiring on something and some murderers just come and take away your life."    

 

Portmore Mayor Leon Thomas also responded with shock at the killing of Mr. Parkins.

 

Mr. Thomas, who visited the scene of the crime, said Mr. Parkins had just dropped off summer workers in the Southboro community and was about to leave when he was attacked.