Political analysts are expecting twice-defeated People's National Party (PNP) presidential contender, Dr Peter Phillips, to retain his position in Portia Simpson Miller's new shadow Cabinet.

Phillips was the spokesperson on national security and leader of Opposition business.

Simpson Miller is scheduled to announce a new slate of spokespersons tomorrow during a press conference at the party's headquarters on Old Hope Road in St Andrew, days after dissolving the council of spokespersons.

Political analyst Richard Crawford told The Gleaner yesterday that Phillips should be chosen on the bases of continuity and experience.

"Crime is Jamaica's number one social problem. I would be inclined to retain him, naturally, with his willingness," Crawford said.

Another analyst, Martin Henry, agreed.

"In democracies all over the world, even though people don't see eye to eye but belong to one common movement, they have had to learn to work together," Henry said.

But the analysts say Phillips is unlikely to remain as leader of Opposition business in the House of Representatives.

They said that position would likely go to a neutral and experienced member of the House, such as Ronald Thwaites, or a key Portia ally and experienced parliamentarian, such as Phillip Paulwell.

Acting leader

Paulwell has, since Tuesday, been acting leader of Opposition business.

Yesterday, Phillips continued to be reserved on whether he would accept a position in the shadow Cabinet, if offered.

"I am not going to hypothesise," he told The Gleaner. "I am going to wait until the dust settles."

Henry said keeping Phillips would give the party president room to honour the resignation of some of his supporters.

In fact, Henry is expecting all other Phillips supporters, except Dr Fenton Ferguson, who retained a position in the four vice-presidential slots, to be booted from the shadow Cabinet.