PNP backs suspended doctor

The People's National Party (PNP) said it strongly condemns the "unfair interdiction" of Dr Aujae Dixon, who was suspended from duties because he participated as a candidate in the September 3 general election.

The party, in a release, said the decision by the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) to interdict Dixon is "an egregious injustice and an affront to the principles of freedom of expression and association which are enshrined in our Constitution".

Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, Zuleika Jess, said the action undermines civic participation and "threatens the very freedoms our democracy is meant to protect".

"Such a move, whether the result of an overly zealous application of policy or misinterpretation of staff orders, has the effect of silencing those who seek to exercise their constitutional rights," she said. The PNP urgently demanded that SRHA rescind the interdiction and immediately reinstate him to his substantive position in the interest of justice.

The PNP said it also took note of recent judicial decisions in neighbouring jurisdictions such as Barbados, where the Courts have struck down similar staff orders that prohibit public servants from participating in politics, ruling them unconstitutional and finding that the prohibition cannot be reasonably justified in a free and democratic society.

"In light of the foregoing, the People's National Party calls for urgent policy changes, including a complete review and reform of the antiquated staff orders to bring Jamaica's public service policies in line with recent judicial decisions and thereby prevent future injustice," the party said.

The PNP said it stands firmly with Dixon, and opined that suppressing the voices of those who strive for democratic participation has no place in a free and fair Jamaica.

Dixon unsuccessfully contested the Clarendon North Central seat in the election, losing to the Jamaica Labour Party incumbent Robert Morgan.