Swaby proposes bond system to ensure quick removal of election signs

Mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby is calling for the introduction of a structured system to ensure the timely removal of campaign signs and other paraphernalia following elections.

Speaking at Tuesday’s monthly sitting of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), Swaby proposed the introduction of a refundable bond system to address the issue across the municipality.

“I believe the time has come for us to engage the political parties in serious discussions about introducing a refundable bond system,” Mayor Swaby. “This bond would be refunded if all campaign materials are removed within a specified period following the elections. If not, the KSAMC would retain the funds to cover the cost of removal.”

Citing guidelines from the Office of the Political Ombudsman, Swaby emphasised the importance of enforcing the 14-day post-election deadline for the removal of all campaign material.

“This is the first election I’ve seen with so many signs,” he said. “The proliferation of signs is real, and I’m watching now to see if they are being taken down.”

While referencing the Town and Country Planning Act, which governs the erection of signs, Swaby noted that the bond proposal goes beyond existing legislation.

He said discussion was needed with the political parties to determine the most appropriate way forward, whether through policy, legislation, or formal agreements such as Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs).

With the election season now concluded, Swaby said it is time for the Corporation to return its focus to the cleaning and beautification of Kingston and St Andrew.

“Our streets and communities must be cleared of all campaign signs, flags, drapings, and other materials,” he declared, adding that the current voluntary approach is no longer sustainable.

At present, political parties are not required to pay any fees to the KSAMC for placing campaign advertisements in public spaces. Mayor Swaby argued that this long-standing arrangement should now be reconsidered.

The mayor also acknowledged efforts already being made by at least one elected official. He commended Member of Parliament-elect for St Andrew North Central, Delano Seiveright, for steps taken to remove his signs across the constituency.

In the meantime, Swaby confirmed that the Chief Executive Officer of the KSAMC has written to the general secretaries of both major political parties, urging immediate action to remove all remaining campaign materials from public spaces.

- Tanesha Mundle

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