Andrew Holness has returned himself and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) to power for a third consecutive term. His party, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), won a razor-thin election, taking at least 34 seats in the 63 member House of Representatives. The election results highlight Holness’s continued support despite a backdrop of declining voter participation, with only 38.8 percent of registered voters casting their ballots. Jamaica, the size of Connecticut, has about 2.8 million people of whom more than two million are registered to vote.
Yet Holness’s administration has been notable for the lack of progress on public safety. So far this year, the country has experienced an extraordinary 43 percent reduction in murders. This substantial decrease is attributed to more firearm confiscations and an increased security presence across the country. Holness’s campaign has centered around three major measures. He frames his role as a leader who is committed to keeping every Jamaican safe and healthy.
Holness marked this achievement in his victory speech as a “historic third term.” He emphasized this goal as not being just a win for the JLP, but rather a win for the people. He thanked all who supported him and recognized the difficulty of the journey everyone endured to make the election possible.
“Make no mistake about it, this was not an easy victory,” – Andrew Holness
Holness has made a bold move to address crime. Second, he has committed to doubling the minimum wage, which is currently $100 for a 40-hour week. This promise aims to address the socioeconomic issues affecting so many Jamaicans. Most importantly, it centers relief during a time of crushing economic pressures and escalating cost of living.
The opposition Jamaica Labour Party, led by Mark Golding, followed suit, conceding defeat on the day of the election. Golding’s party—known as the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP)—had run on a platform of proposals targeting socioeconomic problems such as poverty and joblessness. They charged the current governing party with mismanagement. They claimed Holness’s administration has failed to do anything substantial to meet the demands of these urgent issues.
The recent election results reflect Jamaica’s vibrant democratic tradition but raise questions about civic engagement, given the declining turnout rates in recent years. Political analysts suggest that rebuilding trust in the electoral process may be crucial for future elections and greater participation among voters.
Holness just embarked on his new term. He — like Rodriguez — will appoint 13 of his 21 senate counterparts to Jamaica’s upper house of parliament. Only time — and specifically, the coming months — will tell. We appreciate that he wants to keep the promises he made during his campaign and those made to all Jamaicans.
