By Kimone Witter
People's National Party (PNP) president Mark Golding has apologised for his controversial statement about dead voters made on a political platform on Sunday.
Mr. Golding has been harshly criticised for the comment which appeared to encourage supporters to cast ballots in the name of dead voters.
A censure motion was tabled in the House of Representatives on Tuesday by Government MP Daryl Vaz calling for Mr. Golding to be held to account.
Addressing the matter at a press conference on Wednesday, Mr. Golding reiterated that the remark was a lighthearted response to a comment from a supporter at the East Rural St. Andrew constituency conference.
"I realise, however, that some people have interpreted those remarks as being serious statements of my position on the matter. That is not the case, and I unreservedly withdraw and retract those remarks," he admitted.
The PNP president insisted he is "fully committed to Jamaica having a free and fair electoral system so that our democratic elections are conducted to the highest standards of fairness".
He added that he is committed to the elimination of all forms of electoral malpractice.