Before an election, candidates pledge to uphold the Standards outlined in the Agreement and Declaration on Political Conduct by signing certificates of Commitment.

This affirmation is usually done at a ceremony presided over by the Custos Rotulorum for parish in which the election will take place.

The event is attended by the Political Ombudsman, the General Secretaries of the parties (or senior representatives), members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and party supporters.