"Stop it" - says Portia Simpson-Miller

President of the People’s National Party (PNP) Portia Simpson-Miller has spoken out against members of Party who she says are bringing the organisation into disrepute.

Simpson-Miller has been chided by political analysts and commentators for not having a handle on the campaign funds scandal rocking the party.

Addressing party supporters in Black River, St. Elizabeth on Saturday, afternoon, the party leader said she will be standing firm against anyone who tries to undermine the PNP.

“All of use must refrain from bringing the PNP down .I say to comrades – stop it. Any one who tries to bring the movement, formed by our National Hero, Norman Washington Manley to shame – I’m not going to allow it.”

The party has been in the spotlight due to allegations of the misuse of campaign donations by some members.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Leader says she will not condone any level of corruption within the PNP – adding that there are many distractions that are being created by party members and this is taking away from preparations for the Local Government election.

“These distractions will only serve to reduce our effectiveness  - the PNP has always been a party of the greatest integrity. As president, I intend to maintain the integrity of the party  - I have not condoned any acts of corruption. I never have and I never will.”

She also called on PNP members and supporters to stop the quarreling in the media.

“From party supporter to party workers, to officers of the part – stop it. We have an office and we have constituency officers across the country – do it there. It does not look good and it is harming the People’s National Party as a body. There must be unity in the party. I believe in democracy, I believe in freedom of speech, but now is the time to unite as one party. Now is the time for consensus,” said the party leader who was speaking at the launch of the PNP's local government election campaign in St. Elizabeth.

She also expressed confidence that the Party will remain in control of the Parish Council whenever the election is called.