People’s National Party, PNP Vice Presidents elect, Richard Azan and Ian Hayles have apologized to Central Manchester Member of Parliament Rhoda Crawford for disparaging statements made about her on the political platform.

The men criticized Crawford at the party’s Manchester Central Constituency Conference, on Saturday (July 24), sparking backlash from several commentators, many of whom have called their statements distasteful.

In a release today (July 28), the men said having reflected on their remarks, they have come to greater awareness that the norms in the Jamaican society have evolved.

They said what was once cut-and-thrust banter on a political platform now constitutes an unacceptable personal attack on another politician.

In particular, they said they realize the importance of creating an environment which encourages persons to serve through politics, as Jamaica faces unprecedented challenges.

The Vice Presidents elect noted that while it was not their intention to say anything that could be regarded as outside the range of acceptable political platform oratory, they now realize that what was said has caused offence, not only to the member of parliament, but also to members of the public.

As such they are apologizing to MP Crawford and all who were offended by the remarks.

They noted further that they believe it’s important that the political atmosphere in Jamaica should not be a disincentive to participation by women who are still under-represented in representational politics.

They added that they are committing to be more mindful of how their language may affect others in the future and will maintain a higher standard of civility in their discourse.