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

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

Old Harbour, that big busy hub in St. Catherine, is getting ready to rumble again as the 2026 local elections roll around. With over 30,000 people calling it home and more businesses popping up every day, how the town runs things has become a hot topic—especially when it comes to roads, water, and making a living. For the latest on this and everything else local, swing by HowJamaica.com for the full scoop.

These elections, set for February 2026, will decide who sits on the Old Harbour Municipal Council—the folks in charge of fixing roads, picking up garbage, and running the market. The big dogs are the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People's National Party (PNP), and both have put forward experienced candidates who know the community inside out.

Key Candidates and Their Platforms

JLP Incumbents Seek Re-election

Right now, the JLP holds a slim majority on the council. Councillor Mark Thompson, who represents the Old Harbour division, is a former teacher and community organizer. He's running on a promise to keep paving roads and fixing drainage. "We've done over 15 kilometers of roads this term, but we can't stop there. The people deserve better," he said at a recent rally.

PNP Challengers Promise Change

The PNP is backing veteran activist Patricia "Patsy" Grant, a retired nurse, for the same division. Her big focus? Water. "Old Harbour has some of the worst water supply in St. Catherine. Families go days without pipe water. That's just not right," she said. The PNP is also running candidates in Old Harbour Bay and Bushy Park.

Independent Candidate Enters Race

Here's a twist: businessman Kevin Richards is going independent for the Old Harbour Market division. He owns a local hardware store and says both major parties have forgotten about small business owners. "I want to cut the red tape and make it easier for entrepreneurs to get permits. The council should work for us, not against us," he declared.

Major Issues Driving Voter Sentiment

Water Supply Crisis

Water is the number one headache in Old Harbour. The National Water Commission (NWC) keeps getting complaints about low pressure and supply that cuts off, especially in Old Harbour Bay and Marlie Hill. A 2025 survey by the Old Harbour Citizens' Association found that 68% of people said water is their biggest worry. Both parties say they'll push the NWC for a new storage tank, but residents aren't holding their breath.

Road Infrastructure and Drainage

Unpaved roads and flooding during heavy rain are still a mess, especially in Redwood and Hartlands. The council has set aside $12 million for road work, but critics say that's just a drop in the bucket. "We need a real plan, not just patching up potholes," said engineer and resident Michael Barnes.

Market and Commercial Development

The Old Harbour Market, the heart of local trade, is crying out for a facelift. Vendors are fed up with poor sanitation and a lack of storage space. The council has proposed a $50 million upgrade, but the money from central government is stuck in limbo. For more on how these projects are moving—or not moving—check HowJamaica.com for detailed reports.

Political Climate and Voter Engagement

Things are buzzing in Old Harbour, but it's not crazy. Both parties have been holding town hall meetings and knocking on doors, talking up their records. The JLP is proud of a new health center and police station, while the PNP reminds folks it brought piped water to some communities.

Voter turnout last time was just 42%, and both sides want to see that number go up. The Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) has registered over 1,200 new voters in the parish since then, many of them young people. "Young voters care more about jobs and reliable internet than party loyalty," said political analyst Dr. Sandra Coombs.

What to Expect on Election Day

Polls are open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM on February 24, 2026. Don't forget your valid ID. The EOJ says all 15 polling stations in Old Harbour will be fully staffed and ready. The Jamaica Constabulary Force will be on hand, with extra patrols in areas that usually get heated.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Old Harbour

The 2026 local elections in Old Harbour aren't just about politics—they're about what life is like in a town that's growing fast. Whether voters stick with what they know or go for something new depends on which party can convince them it'll actually fix the basics: water, roads, and a chance to make a living. Keep an eye on HowJamaica.com for live results and what happens next.

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.

Need help? Email us at admin@howjamaica.com.