The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), and the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) strongly condemn the bomb threats and any other actions intended to disrupt or undermine the democratic process of voting in Jamaica.

“As a nation, we have come too far to allow fear and intimidation to compromise the rights of our people. Jamaica must show maturity and civility as a democracy—one where every citizen feels safe and confident in exercising their constitutional right to vote,” the group said in a statement Friday.

“Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, secured through the struggles and sacrifices of our forefathers. Any attempt to erode this principle not only endangers lives but also threatens the progress and stability of our country,” the joint statement said.

This year marks Jamaica’s 18th general election and will be held on Wednesday, September 3.

The joint statement continued: “While we have made strides since our violent past, we cannot revert to those dark days. In recent elections, voter turnout fell—just 48% in 2016 and a record low of 37% in 2020. This is deeply troubling for a country that fought hard for universal adult suffrage. Every eligible Jamaican must take responsibility to register, to show up, and to cast their vote.

“These decisions play into the very fabric of our social and economic structure and will determine the path of our nation. Today, the reckless threats may have caused major disruptions to businesses, eroding productivity, and creating financial losses for ordinary Jamaicans.

Reported bomb threats on government buildings across the island have resulted in mass disruption of service and resulted in heavy traffic, especially in the Corporate Area, where throughfares had to be blocked off and traffic diverted.

In their joint statement, the group added: “…these gimmicks have made our resolve even stronger, as the will of the Jamaican people and Jamaica’s electoral process will stand firm.”

The private sector called on the security forces to “be proactive and put measures in place to strongly discourage and respond to similar scare tactics” on election day, also to act swiftly to identify those behind these actions and ensure the justice system deals with them to the fullest extent of the law.

Metry Seaga, president of the PSOJ, stated: “The right to vote is one of the most powerful tools we have as citizens. Our forefathers sacrificed for us to gain this right. We must honour their legacy by protecting democracy and ensuring that every Jamaican can vote without fear or intimidation.”

Phillip Ramson, president of the JCC, added: “Low voter turnout is a danger to our democracy. Every eligible Jamaican must recognise that voting is not just a right but a responsibility. The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce stands firmly for a process that is safe, free, and fair.”

Kathryn Silvera, president of the JMEA, emphasised: “The private sector calls on all Jamaicans to register, to turn out, and to vote. These elections are not just about politics—they are about the future direction of Jamaica’s economy and society. The choices we make at the polls today determine the opportunities and stability for generations tomorrow.”

The private sector therefore condemns all attempts to disrupt the elections and calls on all Jamaicans—eligible and able—to make their voices heard. The choices we make at the polls will shape our economy, our healthcare, our education, our security, and our future as a people.

The JMEA, JCC, and PSOJ stand in solidarity with the Electoral Office of Jamaica, the security forces, and civil society to ensure that elections are conducted in a peaceful, transparent, and inclusive manner. We look forward to an environment where Jamaicans can confidently exercise their right to vote—knowing that their voices matter. Your Vote. Your Voice. Jamaica’s Future.