SRHA criticised for interdicting Dr. Aujae Dixon over election bid

 

The Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) is facing criticism for its decision to interdict Dr. Aujae Dixon, who has been suspended from duties due to his participation as a candidate in the recent general election held on September 3.

 

The People's National Party (PNP) has condemned the decision. 

 

The PNP says the decision to interdict Dr. Dixon is an egregious injustice and an affront to the principles of freedom of expression and association which are enshrined in the Constitution.

 

Opposition Spokesperson on Justice Zuleika Jess says this action undermines civic participation and threatens the very freedoms Jamaica's democracy is meant to protect.

 

"Whether through an overly zealous application of policy or a misinterpretation of staff orders, the effect is the same. It silences those who seek to exercise their constitutional rights. We call on the Southern Regional Health Authority to immediately rescind this interdiction and reinstate Dr. Dixon to his substantive post in the interest of justice," she urged.

 

Ms. Jess said the opposition has taken note of recent judicial decisions in Barbados where the courts have struck down similar staff orders that prohibit public servants from participating in politics, ruling them unconstitutional.

 

"We therefore urge the government to move with urgency to review and reform these outdated staff orders so that no public servant in Jamaica is ever again subjected to this kind of injustice. The People's National Party stands firmly with Dr. Dixon and reaffirms our commitment to defending justice, equality and the democratic rights of all Jamaicans," she insisted.