Gareth Davis, Gleaner Writer

Port Antonio, Portland:

The People's National Party (PNP) appears to be facing more turmoil following the abrupt resignation of caretaker for the Western Portland constituency, Doreen Forbes, on Friday.

Up until Saturday afternoon, the PNP hierarchy had not yet confirmed the resignation of the candidate, but several colleague councillors have indicated that they have since learnt of her resignation, but they have not received an official statement from the embattled caretaker.

The resignation comes in the wake of a tour organised by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) for that constituency, put on by caretaker Daryl Vaz, which saw Audley Shaw, Opposition spokesman on Finance and Deputy Leader, tra-velling through sections of the Buff Bay Valley on Friday.

Mr. Vaz said he understood the difficulties faced by his rival, Ms. Forbes.

A lot of political pressure

"She came under a lot of political pressure since our party leader (Bruce Golding) toured this constituency two weeks ago," he said. "The massive motorcade and a mass meeting at Lynch Park, also sent a clear message to her about the strong support which I now have."

The PNP caretaker had earlier defeated Michael Ennis, brother of sitting Member of Parliament, Errol Ennis, in a selection in July after that position became vacant following the MP's announcement that he would be retiring from representational politics at the next general election.