Phillips: Simpson Miller Not Afraid To Face Holness In A Debate But ...

By: Admin

Image caption: Phillips: There are important questions regarding the integrity of opposition leader, Andrew Holness, which must be answered before the party can agree to a debate.

The People’s National Party (PNP) is dismissing claims that it has pulled out of the national leadership debate in a bid to shield Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller.

At a press conference this morning, the PNP’s campaign director, Dr. Peter Phillips, insisted that the party’s decision is aimed at protecting the integrity of the Jamaican parliament.

He said there are important questions regarding the integrity of opposition leader, Andrew Holness, which must be answered before the party can agree to a debate.

Phillips is insisting that Simpson Miller can hold her own in a debate against Holness.

Simpson Miller has accused Holness of defaming her following comments he made on Nomination Day and wants an apology before any debate.

The PNP is also demanding that Holness declare his finances no later than seven days before the elections.

The PNP has also cited a number of other issues including the senate saga, Holness’ actions relating to a convicted Jamaican in Qatar and his comments in the aftermath of the Sam Sharpe square shooting on Sunday.

In the meantime, Phillips is insisting that voters are not being deprived of important information regarding a People’s National Party government going forward because of its withdrawal from the debates.

Phillips says the PNP will be providing Jamaicans with information on its policies and programmes through a series of national broadcasts beginning on Monday.

He says several party representatives, including the Prime Minister will deliver these broadcasts, expected to run up to the eve of the February 25 polls.