Less than two weeks after announcing what they described as a “historic” merger, two of Jamaica’s minor opposition parties, Jamaica First Movement (JFM) and the Jamaica Progressive Party (JPP), have dissolved their political alliance, citing “substantive differences” in their visions for national governance.
The decision comes just over a week before Jamaicans head to the polls for the general election. In a joint statement, the parties said the split followed a series of candid and respectful discussions.
“While we entered this partnership with shared hopes for national transformation, we have come to recognise that our foundational principles, particularly regarding the structure and vision for a government of national unity, were not as fully aligned as initially understood and have since revealed substantive differences that were not apparent at the outset,” the statement read.
The alliance, announced on August 13, was intended to offer an alternative to Jamaica’s decades-old two-party dominance and to address voter apathy.
JFM was launched recently by well-known clergyman Reverend Al Miller. He promised that the party would only serve for a single five-year term if successful in forming a government. JPP, on the other hand, officially registered as a political party in 2020. The JPP, based in Kingston, is led by Gilbert Alexander Edwards.
Following the dissolution, JFM said it remained committed to its covenant with the Jamaican people to pursue transparent governance rooted in justice, truth, and righteousness. JPP also reaffirmed its commitment to righteousness, integrity, and accountability.
“Both movements acknowledge the sincere efforts made by their teams throughout this collaboration. With this realignment, we part ways with mutual respect and a shared desire to serve Jamaica, each in accordance with its own convictions and commitments,” the parties added, thanking the public for its trust and support.
