Derrick Smith - File

Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Deputy Leader Derrick Smith is making it clear that his decision to not seek re-election to that position does not signal an end to his political career.

In fact, Smith is not giving up on his job as member of parliament.

"I have achieved much and it's time to go," Smith said of the role of deputy leader in charge of Area Council One.

With Smith's impending departure, a keen competition is anticipated at next month's annual conference between Education Minister Andrew Holness and Mayor of Kingston Desmond McKenzie, who is currently the chairman of Area Council One.

JLP General Secretary Karl Samuda has confirmed that he has received nomi-nations for the two men.

Smith said he was prepared to work with anyone who succeeds him.

"I will accept the decision of the accredited delegates of Area Council One," he told The Gleaner.

Plans for re-election

However, while Smith plans to throw in the towel in relation to the senior party position he has held for a decade and a half, he is adamant that he has no plans to walk away from representational politics at this time.

"I will be continuing as MP until I decide to quit. As I speak, I intend to be on the ticket in the next general election representing the JLP," Smith declared.

Smith, who was a government senator between 1980 and 1983, shadowed the national-security portfolio for much of the 18 years during which the JLP was in Opposition.

Forced to surrender the tough national-security portfolio just months after his September 2007 appointment because of health challenges, Smith told The Gleaner his condition was improving with each passing day.

He said his immediate aim was to give his constituents, who sent him to Gordon House to represent them, his undivided attention.

Plans for a book

However, Smith said he would not rule out serving in other capacities in the party.

"At this point in time, there are no offers. I served as deputy general secretary in the organisation, as well as area council chairman."

Smith described as challenging, the entire 15-year period that he has served as deputy leader of the JLP, "especially between 1993 and 2002 when the party went through numerous changes".

He added: "I have enjoyed it all and would do it all over again for the Jamaica Labour Party."

Smith said he plans to write a book on his experiences in the JLP.

"I am doing it and I intend to publish it whenever I demit office."

gary.spaulding@gleanerjm.com

'I have achieved much and it's time to go ... I will be continuing as MP until I decide to quit. As I speak, I intend to be on the ticket in the next general election representing the JLP.'