Call for sanctions against Cliff Hughes

The PNP Patriots is issuing a stern condemnation of Nationwide News FM and its lead journalist, Cliff Hughes, for their persistent pattern of biased, misleading, and inflammatory reporting targeting the People’s National Party (PNP). 

This condemnation follows Mr. Hughes’ shocking and unacceptable call for the physical assault of PNP General Secretary, Dr. Dayton Campbell, during a live radio broadcast on August 4, 2025.  

On the program Nationwide at 5, Mr. Hughes explicitly encouraged that Dr. Campbell be physically assaulted stating:  

 “Somebody inside there cant get a hold of him and shot him a box and say shut you mouth!”  

Such rhetoric is not only unprofessional but incites hatred and potential harm against a senior member of our party. This reprehensible comment underscores a broader culture of bias and recklessness at Nationwide News FM, which has repeatedly platformed unbalanced commentary, misinformation, and personal attacks against the PNP and its leaders.  

The PNP Patriots firmly believe in freedom of the press as a cornerstone of democracy; however, this freedom carries the responsibility to report fairly, accurately, and without endangering public figures. Cliff Hughes’ call for assault against Dr. Campbell is not journalism; it is reckless incitement. Nationwide’s ongoing campaign to vilify the PNP poisons public discourse and erodes trust in media integrity. 

We demand immediate action:  

1. A full and unequivocal public apology from Mr. Hughes and Nationwide News FM to Dr. Campbell and the PNP.  

2. The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) must investigate and sanction Cliff Hughes for violating journalistic ethics and endangering a public official.  

The PNP Patriots call on civil society, media watchdogs, and the Jamaican public to reject such dangerous behaviour. Journalism must inform, not inflame. We urge the PAJ to uphold its mandate to ensure responsible journalism and hold Mr. Hughes accountable for his unhinged commentary.