Opposition, Government officials mourn passing of Councillor Patrick Forrester
/ Our Today
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Jamaica’s political and local government circles are united in grief following the sudden death of Councillor Patrick Forrester, representative of the Petersfield Division in Central Westmoreland, in a motor vehicle crash on Wednesday.
The People’s National Party (PNP) described Forrester as more than a local representative, hailing him as a committed community leader whose service was marked by compassion, humility, and an unyielding dedication to the people of Petersfield. He was noted for his advocacy in education, youth empowerment, and community development.
PNP President Mark Golding expressed deep sorrow, calling his passing “a terrible blow to the Party and to the people of Petersfield”.
He said Forrester was a humble and devoted servant whose legacy will endure in the lives of those he served.
PNP General Secretary Dr Dayton Campbell remembered him as “a man of the people” who was accessible, dependable, and deeply respected. “His passing leaves a void not only in Westmoreland but across the movement,” he added.
MP-elect for Central Westmoreland, Dwayne Vaz, gave a more personal reflection, describing Forrester as both a colleague and a brother. “The Petersfield Division has lost a champion, and I have lost a brother,” Vaz said. “We will honour his memory by continuing the work he dedicated his life to.”
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Desmond McKenzie, also paid tribute, calling the councillor’s death “a shocking and unwelcome development.” He pointed out that Forrester is now the third parish-level elected representative to die since the start of the year.
“I express my condolences to Councillor Forrester’s family and friends, and to his political family, the People’s National Party,” McKenzie said. “I wish them comfort, as they try to process this tragic event, recover their strength, and cherish his memory in the days ahead.”
As tributes continue to flow, the PNP has extended condolences to Councillor Forrester’s family, friends, colleagues, and constituents, pledging to honour his memory through the continued pursuit of the values he embodied.
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