As Jamaica’s 2024 local government election edges closer, both major political party leaders find themselves grappling with a growing trust deficit, according to the latest Don Anderson political polls.
The Don Anderson poll collected data through fieldwork conducted between November 24 and December 7.
It has a margin of error of plus or minus three per cent.
Surveying the trust landscape
A significant portion of the electorate appears to lack confidence in the leadership of either party.
According to the survey, 43 per cent of respondents voiced their distrust in both party leaders.
Holness’ long-standing leadership
Prime Minister Andrew Holness, has held the reins of the Jamaica Labour Party for a 12-year span.
After a brief stint as Prime Minister in 2011, he resurged to the helm of government by securing victories in both the 2016 and 2020 general elections.
Golding’s new leadership
In stark contrast, Mark Golding, the President of the People’s National Party (PNP) and the current Opposition Leader, assumed his leadership role in November 2020.
He faces the challenge of gaining trust in a comparatively shorter timeframe.
Trust allocation
Within the trust allocation, 25 per cent of those polled expressed more faith in his Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
On the other hand, Opposition Leader Mark Golding follows closely with the trust of 21 per cent of respondents. However, a notable 11 per cent remain uncertain, unable to definitively favor either leader.
Shifting focus
Don Anderson, the pollster and head of Market Research Limited, highlights a pivotal shift in societal priorities.
The results indicate a growing emphasis on issues over personality-centric politics. This shift suggests that voters are increasingly focused on the policies and problems facing the nation rather than being swayed solely by charismatic leadership.
