Newly-named chairman of the New Jamaica Alliance (NJA), Rev. Al Miller (left), and president of the organisation, Hyacinth Bennett in conversation at the Hilton Kingston Hotel yesterday where 21 candidates who will represent the party in the next general election were presented. - Norman Grindley /Staff Photographer THE New Jamaica Alliance (NJA) yesterday presented 21 candidates to represent it in the next elections and also named an executive to manage its affairs with Rev. Al Miller as chairman, Rev Clinton Chisholm as vice chairman and Hyacinth Bennett as president.
Denzil Taylor, head of the Republican Party of Jamaica, one of the groups in the alliance, was named as vice-president and he will represent the NJA in the South St. Catherine constituency.
The executive reflects the amalgamation of interests from The National Democratic Movement, Republic Party of Jamaica and founding members of the Jamaica Alliance for National Unity (JANU).
Rev. Miller's role as chairman is primarily to keep the alliance focused and mediate differences, while Mrs. Bennett is expected to lead the political charge.
Among the 21 candidates presented were Mrs. Bennett who will represent West Rural St. Andrew; physiotherapist Appol-lone Reid for St. James North West; trade unionist James Francis for St. Andrew East Central; businessman Michael Asher for St. Ann North West. Social worker, Rev Leroy Campbell will represent St. Ann Southn East and his wife, Arlene Campbell is slated to be on the NJA ticket for St. Ann North East.
Rev Miller said the selected candidates had been subjected to intense grilling and questioning by a panel on their integrity and commitment to the highest standards in the conduct of public affairs.
Their names and photographs are to be published in the media inviting anyone who knew of just reasons why they would not be considered suitable candidates for public office to present their concerns in writing and to be prepared to defend these concerns before a panel.
Meanwhile, in her presentation of the NDM's manifesto which is to provide the framework for the larger group, Mrs. Bennett said the alliance would be commissioning a national public opinion poll to determine the public's views on issues such as the decriminalisation of ganja and homosexuality; gambling, hanging, constitutional reform and for the establishment of a Truth Commission.
"While I might have very strong views on these issues, we do not believe we should sit in isolation and draft policies without input from the public," she said.
According to Mrs. Bennett another organisation had expressed an interest in being a part of the Alliance, but she declined to give details saying discussions were still taking place.
She said there would be a strong emphasis on education were NJA to form the next government.
