Old Harbour 2026 Local Elections: Key Candidates, Issues, and ...

Old Harbour Prepares for 2026 Local Elections: A Political scene in Transition

Old Harbour, the bustling commercial hub in St. Catherine, is once again at the center of Jamaica's local political arena as the 2026 municipal elections approach. With a population of over 30,000 residents and a growing number of businesses, the town's local governance has become a focal point for debates on infrastructure, water supply, and economic development. For the latest updates on this and other local news, visit HowJamaica.com for comprehensive coverage.

The upcoming elections, scheduled for February 2026, will determine the makeup of the Old Harbour Municipal Council, which oversees critical services such as road maintenance, garbage collection, and market management. The main contenders are the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People's National Party (PNP), both of which have fielded experienced candidates with deep ties to the community.

Key Candidates and Their Platforms

JLP Incumbents Seek Re-election

The JLP currently holds a slim majority on the council, with Councillor Mark Thompson representing the Old Harbour division. Thompson, a former teacher and community organizer, is running on a platform of continued road paving and improved drainage. "We have completed over 15 kilometers of roads in the last term, but we need to do more. The residents deserve better infrastructure," Thompson said at a recent campaign rally.

PNP Challengers Promise Change

The PNP has nominated veteran activist Patricia "Patsy" Grant for the same division. Grant, a retired nurse, has focused on water scarcity issues. "Old Harbour has one of the worst water supply records in St. Catherine. Families go days without pipe water. That's unacceptable," she declared. The PNP is also fielding candidates in the nearby divisions of Old Harbour Bay and Bushy Park.

Independent Candidate Enters Race

In a surprising development, businessman Kevin Richards has declared as an independent candidate for the Old Harbour Market division. Richards, owner of a local hardware store, criticizes both main parties for neglecting small businesses. "I want to cut red tape and make it easier for entrepreneurs to get permits. The council should work for us, not against us," he said.

Major Issues Driving Voter Sentiment

Water Supply Crisis

Water remains the top issue in Old Harbour. The National Water Commission (NWC) has faced repeated complaints about low pressure and intermittent supply, especially in the Old Harbour Bay and Marlie Hill areas. According to a 2025 community survey conducted by the Old Harbour Citizens' Association, 68% of respondents listed water as their primary concern. Both parties have pledged to lobby the NWC for a new storage tank, but residents remain skeptical.

Road Infrastructure and Drainage

Unpaved roads and flooding during heavy rains continue to plague parts of the town, particularly in the Redwood and Hartlands subdivisions. The council's current budget allocates $12 million for road works, but critics say it is insufficient. "We need a comprehensive plan, not patchwork," said engineer and resident Michael Barnes.

Market and Commercial Development

The Old Harbour Market, a central trading area, is in need of renovation. Vendors have complained about inadequate sanitation and lack of storage. The municipal council has proposed a $50 million upgrade, but funding from central government has been delayed. For more details on how local development projects are progressing, check HowJamaica.com for in-depth reports.

Political Climate and Voter Engagement

The political atmosphere in Old Harbour is charged but not volatile. Both parties have held town hall meetings and door-to-door campaigns, emphasizing their records. The JLP highlights recent construction of a new health center and a police station, while the PNP points to its history of bringing piped water to several communities.

Voter turnout in the last local election was 42%, a figure both parties hope to improve. The Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) has registered over 1,200 new voters in the parish since the last election, many of them young people. "Young voters are more concerned about job creation and reliable internet than partisan loyalty," observed political analyst Dr. Sandra Coombs.

What to Expect on Election Day

Polls will open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM on February 24, 2026. Voters must present a valid ID. The EOJ has assured that all 15 polling stations in Old Harbour will be fully staffed and equipped. Security will be provided by the Jamaica Constabulary Force, with extra patrols in known hotspots.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Old Harbour

The 2026 local elections in Old Harbour represent more than a political contest; they are a referendum on the quality of life in a fast-growing urban center. Whether voters choose continuity or change depends on which party convinces them it can deliver on the basics: water, roads, and economic opportunity. Stay tuned to HowJamaica.com for live results and post-election analysis.

This article was fact-checked using official statements from the Jamaica Labour Party, People's National Party, and the Electoral Office of Jamaica. For corrections or updates, contact news@howjamaica.com.

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