JAMAICA | Opposition Condemns Brutal Murder and Assault in Cotton Tree, Albert Town

KINGSTON, Jamaica. August 7, 2023: The Opposition People’s National Party says it vehemently condemns the heinous and barbaric act that took place in Cotton Tree, Albert Town, Trelawny. The incident, which led to the tragic death of 15-year-old Jamila Cole, a student at Troy High School, marks an unfathomable act of violence that has deeply shaken the community and our country, the PNP said.

In a joint statement from Shadow Minister on Culture, Gender, and Transformation Ms Denise Daley and Shadow Minister on National Security Senator Peter Bunting, Member of parliament Daley said it was with a heavy heart that she expressed sincere condolences to the bereaved family and friends of young Jamila.

“The heart-wrenching details of the home invasion, where young Ms Cole, her mother, and her 17-year-old cousin were brutally attacked, demonstrates a level of cruelty that is both incomprehensible and abhorrent. Such acts of violence, particularly against our young women, have no place in our society, and we must stand united against them”, she empathised.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, and we offer our deepest condolences to them during this incredibly painful time. We urge the authorities to spare no effort in swiftly bringing those responsible for this monstrous act to justice,” Daley continued.

Senator Peter Bunting also expressed his profound sorrow and condemnation of the heinous act. In a statement this evening, Senator Bunting shared, “The JCF’s published statistics show a clear upward trend in the number of murders occurring each month since the start of this year, culminating with 134 murders for the month of July. 

As Shadow Minister of National Security, I call upon members of the JCF to work tirelessly to solve the murder of Jamila and to stem the rising tide of murders experienced over the last few months.”

He further called on the Commissioner of Police and the Minister of National Security to work to resolve the impasse affecting the Police Federation leadership and, by extension, the morale and cohesiveness of the entire rank and file. 

“While we know that correlation doesn’t necessarily mean causation, it is not far-fetched to consider that the non-payment of overtime and the unwarranted interdiction of the democratically elected Federation Chairman is demotivating the rank and file membership,” stated Senator Bunting.

May the memory of Jamila Cole serve as a catalyst for change and unity, and may her tragic passing inspire us to redouble our efforts in the pursuit of a safer Jamaica for all. The PNP stands committed to working tirelessly to advocate for a Jamaica where every individual is free from the threat of violence and discrimination.

-30-