MANCHESTER North East must be regarded in the upcoming general election as Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) territory built by Audley Shaw, the incumbent MP. By the Constituencies (Boundaries Order) 1966 made by the Governor-General under Section 67 of the Constitution of Jamaica and which came into operation on January 3, 1967, the number of constituencies was increased from 45 to 53.

The parish of Manchester was provided with an additional constituency bringing the total number to four. The boundaries were redrawn and new constituencies were created, namely - Manchester Southern, North Western, Central and North Eastern.

Of the seven contested Parlia-mentary General Elections (1967-1997) in Manchester North Eastern, the JLP won six to one for the People's National Party (PNP). There is no doubt that this seat based on voting patterns since 1997 is consistent in its support of the JLP. The PNP's only victory was in 1989 when, in a very close contest, Calvin Lyn defeated Audley Shaw (JLP), by 210 votes.

In 1993 when the PNP won 52 of the 60 constituencies islandwide including three in Manchester, the JLP regained control of Manchester North Eastern as Audley Shaw defeated Kenneth C. Neita (PNP), by 795 votes. For Audley Shaw to have won this seat in 1993 speaks volume for his adeptness at marshalling support and out-generaling his opponents. This was further borne out by his putting to rest any doubt that might have been in the minds of political pundits as to who rules in Manchester North East. By polling 6,965 votes compared to his two opponents - Errol Gentles (PNP), 5,568 and Wayne Chen (NDM), 1,851 - he once again demonstrated his capacity to defy great odds in turning back the challenge of two formidable candidates. His margin of victory over the PNP candidate (1,397), was a 75.7per cent increase on his 1993 majority.

The incumbent Audley Shaw is undoubtedly an excellent representative of the people of Manchester North Eastern and it will be extremely difficult for any of his challengers in the upcoming general election to deny him a third consecutive term. Manchester North Eastern - JLP territory - built by Shaw.