Anthony Henry

Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) incumbent Robert Miller says he is confident of securing a second term as Member of Parliament for South Eastern St. Catherine, despite the constituency’s history as a stronghold of the opposition People’s National Party (PNP).

Miller, who is being challenged by PNP’s Dr. Alfred Dawes, spoke with reporters shortly after casting his ballot at a polling station in Cumberland around 1:00 pm. He described the voting process as “smooth” and said he was encouraged by the turnout so far.

“In the constituency of South Eastern St. Catherine, I can see where the people are energised. They are coming out to cast their votes, and the early numbers we are seeing look very encouraging,” Miller said.

While he had not yet received official turnout figures from the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ), Miller noted that his campaign had been focused on mobilising supporters and ensuring orderly voting across the division. “We have been busy since morning trying to get persons out and going around to all the clusters to ensure that we are having as smooth an election as possible,” he added.

The first-term MP acknowledged that the seat was once considered safe territory for the PNP but argued that his record of service has resonated with constituents. “Yes, this has been a stronghold for the opposition for over four decades, but people have seen the work I have done. I’ve been tried, tested and proven. They are coming out to give me the nod to continue the work I’ve started to make South Eastern St. Catherine a model constituency,” he said.

Miller also highlighted his deep personal ties to the community, pointing out that he grew up in the area and that his wife, who voted shortly before him this afternoon, is also a native of Cumberland. “This is an area that schooled me, that grew me, and my wife is from here as well. I am passionate about serving,” he said.

He reported no incidents of violence or disruptions in the constituency, describing the day as peaceful. Miller explained that his decision to vote at 1 pm was symbolic, reflecting a strategy agreed on with party workers that most supporters should cast their ballots earlier in the day, leaving him to vote in the afternoon as a show of confidence.

“I am confident that I will retain the constituency of South Eastern St Catherine, and I am equally confident that the Jamaica Labour Party will form the next government tomorrow morning,” Miller declared.