The Jamaican community is in mourning following the untimely death of esteemed journalist Barbara Gayle, a former reporter for The Gleaner. Gayle was discovered deceased in her residence at the Caymanas Country Club Estate in St. Catherine on Tuesday morning, with authorities reporting a fatal throat-slashing.
Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, expressed her profound sorrow over the incident. “The loss of Barbara Gayle is a heartbreaking reminder of the violence plaguing our society. We must ensure that those responsible are swiftly apprehended and face justice,” Grange stated. She extended her heartfelt condolences to Gayle’s family, friends, and colleagues, wishing her eternal peace.
Echoing Grange’s sentiments, Dana Morris Dixon, the Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, condemned the murder as both brutal and senseless. “The assassination of a respected figure in the media sector is a grave tragedy. Our ministry stands in solidarity with Barbara’s loved ones and her peers at The Gleaner,” Morris Dixon remarked. She emphasized the importance of protecting journalists, whose dedication is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability within society.
Morris Dixon further highlighted the necessity for intensified measures to safeguard individuals against such violent acts. “This devastating event underscores the urgent need for enhanced security for all, particularly those who dedicate their lives to informing the public. We demand that justice be served and that the perpetrators are held accountable without delay,” she added.
The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information also extended its sympathies to the broader media community and all affected by Gayle’s tragic passing. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of journalists, recognizing their essential role in upholding democratic values and truth.
As the nation grapples with this loss, the collective hope remains that justice will prevail and that the memory of Barbara Gayle will inspire continued efforts to protect those who serve the public through their courageous work in journalism.
