The People’s National Party (PNP) has expelled four members after they violated the party’s constitution and nominated themselves as independent candidates for the February 26 local government election.

They are: Lydia Richards (Bensonton Division, St Ann South Eastern), Lawton McKenzie (Grange Hill Division, Western Westmoreland): Beverley Swaby (Porus Division, South Manchester): and Uphell Purcell (York Town Division, Clarendon South Western).

The PNP, in a statement on Friday, January 9, said: “This decision aligns with Rule 263 of the arty’s constitution, which explicitly states, ‘No person who has contested a seat in the House of Representatives or for any municipality, or as a candidate in opposition to the People’s National Party, may continue as aa member of the party.’

Despite violating its constitution, the opposition party expressed gratitude to the members for their years of service.

“Looking ahead with confidence, the party anticipates the decisive victory of Cde Clovis Gohagen in the Bensonton Division, Cde Warren Lyttleton in the Grange Hill Division, Cde Peta-Gaye Blake-Campbell in the Porus Division and Cde Anthony Davis in the York Town Division for the People’s National Party on February 26, 2024,” the PNP said.