WATCH: Rain fails to dampen spirits at PNP annual conference in Westmoreland

SAVANNA-LA-MAR, Westmoreland — Persistent showers of rain failed to dampen spirits at the People’s National Party’s (PNP) historic 88th Annual Conference on Sunday, as thousands gathered at Independence Park in Savanna-la-Mar. Marking a significant departure from tradition, this year’s staging is the first time in the party’s history that the national conference is being hosted outside of Kingston.

​Under the theme, “We Put People First,” the PNP intentionally chose Westmoreland as the host venue, a symbolic decision to stand in solidarity with the parish most severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

​Despite the torrential downpours that began around 3:30 pm, the atmosphere remained buzzing. Hundreds of vendors lined the venue, erecting makeshift stalls on the perimeter while walking vendors maneuvered through the dense crowds inside and outside the park.