The People’s National Party (PNP) has announced that educator Keisha Hayle will be the party’s candidate in the North West St. Andrew constituency by-election to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of derrick smith.

Ms. Hayle is the principal and grade 6 teacher of Padmore Primary in west rural St. Andrew.

The PNP says Ms. Hayle holds separate degrees in psychology and politics from the University of the West Indies, and has been a career teacher for over seventeen years.

Politically, she has been active in the PNP organisation in west rural St. Andrew serving as constituency secretary and vice chairman of the Red Hills division.

Outgoing MP Derrick Smith had announced his intention to leave representational politics last month.

It’s reported that the JLP has selected Dr. Nigel Clarke as the Party’s candidate, amid opposition from Mr. Smith who reportedly wanted his son, Duane to contest the seat.