Jamaica Labour Party gaining ground

Jamiacan Flag: File photo

KINGSTON, Jamaica, August 16, 2007 - The two contesting political parties for upcoming general elections are virtually in a dead heat according to the latest opinion poll by the Jamaica Gleaner.

The opposition Jamaica Labour Party has been steadily gaining ground among the undecided voters while the ruling People's National Party has remained stagnant.

Pollster Bill Johnson said that the PNP was treading water while the JLP is enjoying "positive momentum". He anticipates that the trend should continue to the August 27 general elections.

Parallel to the trend was the popularity of the leaders.

"While (Portia) Simpson Miller's personal ratings are trending down, (Bruce) Golding's personal stocks are moving in the opposite direction."

The one event that could dramatically affect the general elections is Hurricane Dean which is forecast to travel perilously along the south coast of the island early next week exposing those sections of Jamaica to the strongest winds.