PNP, JLP supporters clash at Belfield Community Health Centre opening

What was meant to be a proud moment for residents of Belfield, St Mary quickly descended into political chaos on Thursday as tensions flared between supporters of the island's two major parties at the official opening of the $131 million Belfield Community Health Centre.

The disruption began near the end of the function when former Member of Parliament for Southeast St Mary, Dr Norman Dunn, was allowed to bring greetings. His appearance reportedly angered People's National Party supporters, especially after he sought to highlight the role he played in advocating for the construction of the state of the art facility.

The situation escalated when sitting MP Christopher Brown walked up and stood beside the Jamaica Labour Party caretaker during Dunn's address, a move that further stirred the crowd.

Despite a passionate appeal for calm from Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, supporters from both sides became embroiled in a heated exchange of words and counter accusations. The tension grew so intense that Tufton called on a Seventh Day Adventist pastor present at the ceremony to offer prayer in an effort to restore order.

Before the prayer, Tufton made it clear that neither the sitting MP nor the caretaker MP personally funded the project, stressing that the health centre was built using government funds from taxpayers.

Tufton said the facility was constructed to ensure residents of Belfield and surrounding communities have access to quality health care services.

When he later addressed the gathering, Brown praised the Government and its agencies, including the National Health Fund and the CHASE Fund, for their role in making the project a reality.

"This journey started years ago when community leaders and residents recognized that Belfield needed more, better facilities, improved access, and a health care environment that reflected the dignity of the people," Brown said.

"Access to quality health care is not a privilege, but rather a right. The Belfield Community Health Centre will improve access to care, reduce the burdens on families, and ultimately improve the quality of life for the people of Belfield and beyond," he added.

However, tensions resurfaced after the ribbon cutting and tour of the facility. Outside, supporters from both political camps had to be closely monitored by police as the atmosphere threatened to turn physical.

The situation took another dramatic turn when a man angrily interrupted an attempt by The STAR to conduct a brief interview with Brown, shouting, "Nuh interview caan do inna mi yard."

The outburst angered sections of the crowd, who rushed in defence of the MP. The man reportedly ran toward a pile of stones and threatened to throw them. Police intervened swiftly and had to physically restrain a member of the mob as tensions boiled over.

Amid the chaos, the news team made a hasty retreat from the scene.

- Gareth Davis Sr

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