From left, Thwaites and Cummings.

Gareth Manning, Gleaner Writer

RONNIE THWAITES, the recently-elected candidate for the People's National Party (PNP) in the Central Kingston constituency, has extended the olive branch to defeated candidate Victor Cummings.

Thwaites was elected to represent the constituency in the next general election after he polled 255 votes in a keenly-contested race against Cummings, the sitting Member of Parliament, yesterday at the PNP headquarters in Kingston. Mr. Cummings polled 218 votes.

In spite of his victory, Mr. Thwaites says he will be working closely with Mr. Cummings who will continue as Member of Parliament until his term ends.

"Personally I have high regard for him (Mr. Cummings) as an individual. He has worked as a councillor when I was MP and I assisted him to become MP. I do not accept that I have undermined him and therefore, I am anxious (to support) any activity and any continuance he wants," Mr. Thwaites said.

IMPROVE HOUSING AND EMPLOYMENT

He adds that he would work closely with Mr. Cummings to quell the scourge of violence plaguing Central Kingston communities and improve housing and the level of employment. He says in some areas unemployment is 70 per cent.

While declining to comment after his defeat, Mr. Cummings in an earlier interview, said he was prepared to work with Mr. Thwaites despite the results of the election.

"The important thing, like I have always said,is that we want a united constituency that can move forward for the development and the future of our children," he said.

He added that unity was important so the party could win the next general election which is constitutionally due next year.