Dr Andrew Holness was on Tuesday sworn in as Jamaica’s ninth prime minister, marking the fourth time he has assumed the role. The ceremony, held at King’s House and led by Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, included the taking of the oath of allegiance and the oath of office, as well as the presentation of the instrument of appointment.
In his remarks, Sir Patrick Allen urged Dr Holness to lead with clarity, conviction, and compassion. “Dr Holness, you are reassuming 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 that we have shared, that no Jamaican is left behind anytime. You carry the hopes of people that desire a society that is more inclusive, more prosperous and more just,” the governor-general said.
He continued, “In a world of shifting global realities, economic pressures and social change, the task ahead is great, but so too is the opportunity to shape a Jamaica that rises above its challenges. Your previous terms have laid important foundations. Now with renewed vision and experience, you are entrusted to guide the next chapter of our national story. That the areas of our existence supervised by the state are properly addressed.”
Sir Allen also reassured Jamaicans that the machinery of government has remained in place and functioning following the September 3 general election, which resulted in a Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) victory with 35 seats to the People’s National Party’s (PNP) 28.
“The swearing in of the prime minister today as the head of government is essential to that continuity. Tomorrow we will swear in the cabinet ministers who are essential to the country’s decision-making and administration. The parliament, our law-making branch of government, will open this Thursday. You the people have already the members of the House of Representatives, and I am today recognising the appointment of government and opposition senators who will constitute the upper house. I am also advised by the leader of the opposition; serving in that capacity, he has received the full support of the opposition members of parliament. Together these institutions reflect the will of the people and ensure the orderly governance of our nation,” he said.
Following the ceremony, Dr Holness took to Twitter to express his gratitude: “To God be the glory, His grace, His mercy, and His direction, without Him, none of this would be possible. I give thanks to the countless number of Jamaicans who prayed for peace, prosperity, and good government in our Nation.”
He also thanked his family, constituents in West Central St. Andrew, and party supporters, emphasizing the vital role of the diaspora: “Most of all, I am grateful to you, the people of Jamaica, including our diaspora, your participation in the process is vital for our democracy and your voice has been heard clearly, decisively, and powerfully, not only on who should have the mandate to form the government, but more so, how that mandate should be used.”
Dr Holness now embarks on his fourth term as Jamaica’s prime minister, tasked with guiding the nation through the next chapter of its development.
