Matthew Samuda, JLP candidate for North East St. Ann
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Matthew Samuda
By Clinton McGregor/Kimone Witter
Jamaica Labour Party candidate for North East St. Ann, Matthew Samuda, says he's ready to contest the polls scheduled for later this month to select a new Member of Parliament for the constituency.
In what could be considered a surprise development on Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced that residents in North East St. Ann will be casting their ballots on September 30 during a by-election for the constituency.
The constituency is without representation following Tuesday's sudden resignation of first time MP Marsha Smith, who was also the Junior Education Minister.
Nomination Day for the by-election is September 11.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House on Wednesday, Mr. Holness said Mr. Samuda replaces Ms. Smith as the party's candidate in the constituency.
In an interview with Radio Jamaica News, Mr. Samuda said while this will be a new challenge, he is confident in his ability to retain the seat in the win column for the JLP.
"It's been a whirlwind, so I'm still admittedly processing my thoughts. I've often been a campaign manager as opposed to a candidate, so it is a new experience and one that I'm looking forward to," he declared.
Ms. Smith's position as MP had become untenable, following fiery demonstrations by supporters of the Jamaica Labour Party who complained that she had failed in her duties and called for her removal.
Mr. Samuda was presented by Mr. Holness as the Jamaica Labour Party's standard-bearer at an event in the constituency last November.
Dr. Ryan Simpson is the People's National Party representative in the constituency.
'Whatever capacity'
In meantime, Mr. Samuda told Radio Jamaica News that he is prepared to serve in any capacity in the Cabinet.
This is in light of mounting speculation that he could be tapped as the new Minister of Finance.
Mr. Samuda, while acknowledging that the Prime Minister "has an awesome team and a deep bench from which to choose", insisted his main focus is to ensure the JLP retains the North East St. Ann seat in the by-election, after which, "I will see where and how, and if the Prime Minister wants me to serve in any capacity, I'll make myself available".
The People's National Party has said it will not contest the by-election in North East St. Ann.
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