KINGSTON, Jamaica – As the 81st annual Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) conference kicks off at the National Arena, a new level of security is in place to ensure compliance with the recently enforced “no vuvuzela” policy. Supporters arriving at the venue were seen discarding their vuvuzelas before passing through mandatory security checks, where security officers seized the banned noisemakers.
This move follows the JLP’s previous announcement that vuvuzelas, often associated with loud disruptions, would be prohibited at this year’s conference, mirroring the restrictions set during the Grand Gala in August. Instead, party organizers have encouraged attendees to bring bells to add a festive sound to the proceedings without the raucous noise of vuvuzelas.
The venue is packed with a sea of green, as party supporters don their JLP colors in solidarity. Key party figures, including Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport; Kamina Johnson-Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Fayval Williams, Minister of Finance and the Public Service, have all arrived, setting the stage for a day of speeches and discussions.
Security at the event has been ramped up in anticipation of the large crowd, ensuring that the conference proceeds smoothly while maintaining the festive spirit without any disturbances.
