Confusion lingers in the aftermath of the Local Government Elections as the People’s National Party (PNP) has declared that they are “basking in the glow of victory” following their performance in the popular vote.

Despite only securing five parishes and the mayorships of Portmore and Kingston, many citizens are perplexed by the PNP’s stance considering the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) determined the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) outright winners.

“With all ballots counted, the results indicate that the Jamaica Labour Party candidates have won the majority of the [divisions] in seven parishes, while the People’s National Party has won five,” the EOJ outlined.

Both parties similarly claimed victory during the preliminary count held on Monday at the close of polling, however, with official confirmation released on Friday (March 1), dissonance has infiltrated the announcement process.

The PNP claims their ‘victory’ reinforces the party’s commitment to effective local governance and community empowerment.

PNP general secretary Dr Dayton Campbell, in light of these results, declared emphatically: “Yes, PNP won the election!”

The governing JLP, which is recognised as having secured a second consecutive win in the Local Government Elections since 2016, has since expressed “grave concern” over the Opposition’s reluctance to accept the February 26 results.

• READ: JLP concerned Golding’s refusal to concede defeat threatens Jamaica’s democracy