JLP confirms McKenzie recovering after downtown Kingston pepper spray incident

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Local Government Minister and Kingston West Member of Parliament Desmond McKenzie is in good condition after being pepper-sprayed in downtown Kingston, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) reported Tuesday.

The party said the minister was exposed to the spray when a member of the security forces allegedly deployed it amid a dispute with one of McKenzie’s constituents.

“Deputy Leader McKenzie is doing well but will have a precautionary medical consultation later today. The deputy leader is actively carrying out his duties as Member of Parliament and a minister of Government,” the JLP stated in a press release.

According to the party, McKenzie appreciates the messages of solidarity he has received and continues to prioritise constructive engagement between people in his constituency and the police.