McKenzie doing well after pepper-spray ordeal — JLP
Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, makes his 2026/27 Sectoral Debate presentation in the House of Representatives on Wednesday (June 3).
(Photo: Adrian Walker)
July 14, 2026
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) says Local Government Minister and Member of Parliament for Kingston West, Desmond McKenzie, is doing well after he was pepper-sprayed during an incident in downtown Kingston.
According to the JLP, McKenzie was affected by pepper-spray which was reportedly used by a member of the security forces during a dispute involving the member of the security forces and one of McKenzie’s constituents.
“Deputy Leader McKenzie is doing well but will have a precautionary medical consultation later today. The deputy leader is actively carrying out his duties as Member of Parliament and a minister of Government,” the party said in a press release on Tuesday.
It added that McKenzie is grateful for the expressions of support and remains focused on harnessing harmonious relations between residents of his constituency and law enforcement.
READ: MP Desmond McKenzie reportedly pepper-sprayed in downtown Kingston