Headlines:
| The PNP’s Class of 89 after 18 years |
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| Written by Gary Spaulding | |
| Friday, 27 July 2007 | |
 In 1989, approximately 30 first-time candidates for the People's National Party emerged victorious in the General Elections and were sworn in as Government members.
In 1989, approximately 30 first-time candidates for the People's National Party emerged victorious in the General Elections and were sworn in as Government members. That was 18 years and four electoral terms ago. Now with black hairs turned white and facial and other wrinkles on the increase, many of the 1989 first timers, or the "Class of 89" as it has been dubbed, have decided to call it a day.Among them Headley Cunningham, brilliant former Speaker of the House; former Attorney General Karl Rattray; Karl Miller and Sam Lawrence to name a few.Some of those who stepped up to the plate in 1989 have decided not to enter the race on August 27. These include John Junor, K.D. Knight, Karl Blythe and Errol Ennis. Only five of the Class of 89 are gunning for a fifth consecutive victory at the polls. Robert Pickersgill; Harry Douglas; Dean Peart; Horace Dalley and Derrick Kellier are nearly two decades older, but jaded they have not become, or so they say.All with the exception of Harry Douglas are Cabinet Ministers. Mr. Douglas is a State Minister.It has been a long, bumpy ride, but obviously quite enjoyable in the drivers' seat. Now after four victories, just what keeps them going? Bobby Pickersgill, who seeks to retain his North West St. Catherine seat, has been ducking the media. Mr. Pickersgill is Party Chairman but has been leaving the speaking engagements to General Secretary Danny Buchanan. No one knows why.Dean Peart seeks five straight in North West Manchester. He says he is propelled by a desire to serve people.It is the same for Harry Douglas, who is attempting to stave off the challenge of Tarn Peralto in South East St. Mary.Horace Dalley, the Health Minister, is trying to remain triumphant against a strong Laurie Broderick. But his troubles in the Health Ministry seem to be a millstone around his neck. Derrick Kellier, who is constantly unavailable to the media, battles Montego Bay Mayor Noel Donaldson in his attempt to maintain his dominance in Southern St. James. |