KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC-The leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Dr Andrew Holness, was sworn in as the ninth prime minister of Jamaica on Tuesday.
Holness, during the swearing-in ceremony held at King’s House and led by Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, took the oath of allegiance and the oath of office. He was also presented with the instrument of appointment.
Sir Patrick, in his remarks, urged Holness to lead with clarity and compassion for the people of Jamaica.
“Dr Holness, you are assuming office as the ninth prime minister since independence. Leadership, however, is never merely a title; it is both a privilege and a solemn responsibility. You are once again called to lead with clarity, conviction, and compassion. To ensure that the fruits of progress we have shared are not left behind, no Jamaican is left behind at any time. You carry the hopes of people that desire a society that is more inclusive, more prosperous, and more just,” the governor-general said.
In his remarks, Holness stated that his administration will spur economic growth during its third term and eradicate absolute poverty.
“The vision of this Government in this next chapter is to spur economic growth. Growth that lifts every household, across the length and breadth of Jamaica, out of absolute poverty. Sustained economic growth will end absolute poverty in Jamaica. We can and we will end absolute poverty in Jamaica,” the Prime Minister noted
“We want growth that gives every child the opportunity to dream and to achieve, no matter where they are born or their surname. Growth that reaches the trying mother, who can send all her children to university without facing crippling debt or having to choose between firstborn or secondborn.”
This growth, he noted, will also impact other sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, and tourism, and attract investments from the diaspora.
“Growth that reaches the farmer, who now has reliable irrigation, storage, and a market for his produce. Growth that strengthens our healthcare system, which, in turn, keeps our people well and productive. Growth where tourism is even more integrated in our economy, where world-class resorts thrive along with community tourism, and where the benefits reach every corner of Jamaica, from farmers, entertainers, to taxi operators and craft vendors. Growth that inspires the Jamaican in the diaspora, not only to send remittances but confidently invest their time, talent, and resources in building their homeland Jamaica,” he said.
Holness’s Jamaica Labour Party was elected to form the Government following the September 3 General Election, securing 35 seats to the 28 won by the main opposition People’s National Party.
Legislators are scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday.
and then , Dr Andrew Holness, was sworn in as the ninth prime minister of Jamaica on Tuesday){kind=link}