As polling stations in Aenon Town began to close, Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) officials expressed growing confidence about the outcome of the by-election, buoyed by a steady increase in voter turnout and palpable enthusiasm among supporters.
With just under 40 percent of registered voters casting their ballots by mid-afternoon, JLP campaigners were optimistic that the tide was turning in their favor. Speaking to reporters, Edmond Bartlett, a senior member of the JLP, noted that the mood in the community had shifted in a positive direction as election day unfolded.
“There’s a noticeable energy here today,” Bartlett said as he moved between polling stations, speaking with voters and party workers. “It’s clear our supporters are engaged, and they are coming out to vote. We see the numbers growing, and that tells us everything we need to know. The people of Aenon Town are ready to stand with us.”
Bartlett stressed that while by-elections often see fluctuating turnout rates, the pattern emerging in Aenon Town was different. “This is not about what we hope for, it’s about what the data is telling us. We’re not guessing; we’re seeing the kind of response that indicates we are in a strong position to win,” he added, pointing to the calculated efforts his team had made to ensure a solid ground game.
Dr. Horace Chang, the JLP General Secretary and a seasoned strategist, also expressed satisfaction with the campaign’s progress, referring to the turnout figures as reflective of a normal local government election. “By this time, we’re already seeing participation levels that we would expect for this kind of race,” Chang remarked, indicating that voter interest was high but still within expected ranges.
Chang remained confident that the party would successfully retain the seat. “The operation is running smoothly. Both sides are out campaigning, but the numbers are on our side. I have no concerns about the result when the counting begins,” Chang said, emphasizing that the JLP had been working hard to maintain momentum and secure victory.
A key factor in the party’s optimism was the legacy of the late Marjorie McLeod-McFarlane, the former councillor who had represented the constituency until her death earlier this year. Chang acknowledged the emotional connection many local voters had to McLeod-McFarlane and suggested that her passing may have galvanized JLP supporters. “There’s a deep respect for Marjorie here,” he said. “Her legacy is still fresh in the minds of voters, and many are turning out to honor her memory by supporting our candidate, Suzette Barton.”
As the day drew to a close and the votes prepared to be tallied, both Bartlett and Chang remained upbeat, confidently predicting that Suzette Barton would defeat her challenger, Delroy Dawson of the People’s National Party (PNP), and retain the seat for the JLP.
