People's National Party (PNP) Member of Parliament, Dean Peart (hands raised), is animated as he chats with journalists during a press conference at the PNP's headquarters on Old Hope Road, St. Andrew, yesterday. At right is Donald Buchanan, outgoing general secretary, standing is party chairman Robert Pickersgill, and seated at left is MP, Dr. Fenton Ferguson. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer

The resignation of People's National Party (PNP) general secretary, Donald Buchanan, takes effect at the end of this month.

Mr. Buchanan's letter to party president Portia Simpson Miller, announcing his resignation, was dated December 6 and read out to members of the media during a press briefing at the PNP's Old Hope Road, St. Andrew, offices yesterday.

Restructuring recommended

The letter, read by party chairman Robert Pickersgill, stated in part: "It is my considered view that it is imperative for the party to begin addressing a reorganisation and restructuring programme.

"I am definitely of the view that at my age and energy level I cannot adequately lead the secretariat in this programme."

Mr. Pickersgill said the resignation will be considered at the party's National Executive Council meeting scheduled for January.

Mr. Buchanan assumed the position of general secretary in November last year, after the resignation of Colin Campbell, who had become embroiled in the Trafigura scandal.

Mr. Buchanan's decision to quit, after 50 years of political service in the PNP, has resulted in five persons being touted as possible replacements. They are former deputy general secretary Maureen Webber; current deputy general secretary Julian Robinson; Senator Basil Waite, Manchester Central Member of Parliament Peter Bunting and former Minister of Health Horace Dalley.