Declaring the 'gutter politics' days of the 1970s and '80s over, People's National Party (PNP) president Portia Simpson Miller yesterday warned against simmering political tensions in the Mountain View area of South East St. Andrew.

Making her maiden presentation as party president at the PNP's 68th annual conference at the National Arena, Mrs. Simpson Miller claimed persons had given instructions that political lines must be drawn in the once politically-divided community.

According to the party president, directives had been given that "PNP people must not walk above certain areas or cross certain boundaries."

Attempts to shatter peace

Mrs. Simpson Miller pointed out that the area has been painted with political slogans and flags installed in contravention of a peace agreement signed between political rivals.

Mrs. Simspon Miller told tens of thousands of PNP supporters attending yesterday's event that attempts were being made to shatter the peace brokered by Political Ombudsman Bishop Herro Blair, Member of Parliament for the area, Maxine Henry-Wilson, and some Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) supporters.

Accusing the JLP of breaking traditional political norms, the PNP president said Opposition Leader Bruce Golding on Saturday led a team of supporters "very close" to the National Arena where the PNP was holding its conference.

"They have broken the protocol in Parliament that when the Prime Minister or Leader of the Opposition rises everyone should show respect. They are breaking the traditions of keeping the streets clear of their supporters, as we should keep the streets clear of our supporters when they are having any large gathering anywhere," she said.

Calling on the JLP to exercise good judgement, she said the safety and security of all Jamaicans was paramount.

- Edmond Campbell