JAMAICA |Jamaica Labour Party to review Political Platform Code of Conduct and Social Media Policy

Kingston, Jamaica - Monday, August  14, 2023 - The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), says it has embarked on a comprehensive review of its Social Media Policy, as  well as the party's political platform code of conduct. 

In a statement today, the JLP said this decision was communicated  to the party leadership, at a meeting of all Constituency Chairpersons and Councillor/Candidates at the Jamaica Conference Centre yesterday.

The statement  pointed out that the objective of the exercise is “to refine the guidance provided to party members and representatives regarding their online conduct and behaviour on various electronic media platforms.”

“To ensure a modern and effective framework, Party Leader Andrew Holness has instructed the JLP's Public Relations (PR) Committee to lead the revision process. The primary focus of this initiative is to nurture a culture of respect and dignity towards the Jamaican people while upholding the party's principles and values,” th JLP statement said.

The JLP says it “will not only enhance its Social Media Policy but also update its guidelines for political platform speeches and behaviours. The Party Leader has emphasized the importance of clear directives that promote responsible online conduct and reduce the occurrence of inappropriate language and actions originating from party platforms.”

The statement quotes party leader Andrew Holness as saying that, "In this era of rapid communication and digital interaction, it is imperative that we adapt and ensure our online behaviour aligns with our party's core principles of unity, respect, and inclusivity. Social media wields immense influence in shaping public opinion, and by addressing issues like hate speech and divisive language, we aspire to foster productive and meaningful discourse that serves the best interests of Jamaica."

The party “will organize workshops designed to engage party members and representatives. These workshops will provide a platform for a comprehensive understanding of the revised policy guidelines. The JLP is committed to nurturing a positive online environment that strengthens its connection with the Jamaican people.”

The workshops are expected to  “equip party members and representatives with the necessary skills to navigate social media responsibly and contribute positively to public discourse. Through education, awareness, and guidance, the Jamaica Labour Party is empowering its representatives to uphold the highest standards in their online interactions with the Jamaican people.

“This commitment extends across all levels of the party, from dedicated grassroots supporters to aspiring candidates seeking public office. By setting higher standards, the JLP aims to lead by example and inspire other political entities in the country to adopt similar responsible online behaviour,” the JLP concluded.

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