JAMAICA | PNP demands an apology from Senator Abka Fitz Henley for his verbal attack on an Opposition female Senator.

MONTEGO BAY,  Jamaica, September 28, 2023 - The PNP Women’s Movement, says it is profoundly disappointed in newly appointed JLP Senator Abka Fitz Henley for his uncomplimentary characterization of a female opposition senator while stumping on a JLP Platform over the weekend.

PNP Women’s movement President Patricia Duncan Sutherland is calling on  Senator Fitz Henley to withdraw his statements on a JLP political platform over the weekend where he  launched a personal attack against Senator Donna Scott Mottley and mocked her physical appearance. 

The Movement calls for Senator Fitz Henley to issue an unequivocal public apology and In a recording, initially broadcast by Mr. Fitz Henley's former employer, Nationwide News Network, and subsequently circulated on social media, Fitz Henley is heard making derogatory comments about Senator Scott Mottley's physical appearance. 

Duncan Sutherland emphasized that Fitz Henley’s remarks were unbecoming and entirely unnecessary; they have no place in discussions about leadership. It is imperative for our society to critique women’s work without resorting to judgments based on their physical appearance."

In recent times, our nation has been engaged in a dialogue about the conduct expected from our leaders on political platforms and within the Houses of Parliament. Mrs. Duncan Sutherland said.

"As a movement, we will persist in our efforts to promote a politics we can take pride in, one that respects and values the contributions of women in leadership roles."

"We recognize that as women, we have a dual role in this process. We must hold our male counterparts accountable and actively facilitate conversations that promote awareness and understanding, breaking free from entrenched mindsets and cultural norms," Duncan Sutherland added.

In this context, the Opposition senator has called upon the Gender Minister, Babsy Grange, the Leader of Government Business in the Senate, Kamina Johnson Smith, and the Bicameral Caucus of Women Parliamentarians to join the PNP Women’s Movement in demanding a public apology from Senator Fitz Henley and advocating for his commitment to receive guidance on the expected decorum and respect for Senators. 

Let us ensure that this opportunity for learning and increased awareness is not squandered says Duncan Sutherland.