Delano Seiveright, junior minister in the Ministry of Tourism, announced that he has paused his campaign to represent the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in the critical St. Andrew North Central constituency in the next general election, expected later this year.
The announcement comes just a month after Seiveright declared his intention to enter the race, with the endorsement of the current MP, the Hon. Karl Samuda. In a statement shared by Nationwide News, Seiveright expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support but cited growing division and distraction within the party as reasons for pausing his campaign.
“No one, absolutely no one, is bigger than the party. And beyond that, no one is bigger than Jamaica,” Seiveright stated. “With that said, and after careful thought and consultation, we will, with immediate effect, suspend our campaign. While the momentum has been incredible, we acknowledge that it is becoming a distraction and giving space to those who seek to create division and confusion.”
Seiveright’s campaign had been seen as an early frontrunner, bolstered by Samuda’s endorsement and years of service in the tourism ministry.
Samuda, the long-serving MP, who entered Parliament in 1980, is expected to retire ahead of the next election, leaving the seat open for the first time in decades. Seiveright also publicly praised Samuda’s wife, Pauline, for her longstanding role as a key behind-the-scenes figure in the constituency.
Despite the pause, Delano Seiveright reaffirmed his commitment to the residents of St. Andrew North Central. “We are still here for you. This is our home. Our commitment to your well-being, progress, and employment does not change.”
His most likely rival for the seat was attorney Christian Tavares-Finson, son of Senate President and JLP stalwart Tom Tavares-Finson — a potential intra-party clash that had sparked growing speculation and unease within JLP circles.
In his statement, Seiveright also thanked Prime Minister Andrew Holness, calling him “an inspirational leader” who “encouraged me and many others to think and dream big.”
Update: Delano Seiveright says his campaign has not been suspended, but paused.
