WESTERN BUREAU:

The ring for leadership of the Accompong Maroons is becoming more crowded by the minute. The latest entrant is a nurse, an unusual bid for a position with a strong patriarchal heritage.

In a release to The Gleaner on Friday, Accompong Town nurse Norma Rowe-Edwards said she considered herself aptly qualified to challenge the incumbent, Sydney Peddie.

"As colonel, I will be un-compromising in implementing policies for the betterment of the Maroons," said Rowe-Edwards. "I will be seeking to create a better citizen relationship through quarterly community forums to address issues affecting the community ... . I will be a strong voice for the rights of the residents."

Rowe-Edwards joins Montego Bay police Sergeant Ferron Williams, who recently announced his candidacy, and former colonel Meredith Rowe, as persons who have publicly declared plans to challenge Peddie, who is seeking a third term.

In a recent interview with The Gleaner, a confident Peddie said he welcomed the challenges, claiming that the influx in challengers would split the vote in his favour.

In outlining her ambitious agenda, Rowe-Edwards said she would be aiming to make major inroads in the areas of education, health care, job creation, housing, land use, culture, leadership and accountability.

"I will ensure that Accompong and surrounding communities have access to basic quality health care," Rowe-Edwards said. "I will also be seeking to create jobs through various community programmes as well as to harness the historical and cultural resources to create economic opportunities."

adrian.frater@gleanerjm.com