Opposition Leader Bruce Golding, on Monday said that Jamaica has the ability to overcome its current problems with the right leadership and a purpose around which the nation can rally.

“We can do it, if we have the right leadership. If we are focused and, importantly, if we are able to find that national goal, if we are able to find that purpose to which all of us are prepared, collectively, to commit ourselves,” Golding said.

He was speaking to guests attending a wreath-laying ceremony at National Heroes Park commemorating the 30th anniversary of the death of national hero, Sir Alexander Bustamante. Bustamante was the founder of both the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) which jointly hosted the ceremony.

Golding paid tribute to Bustamante’s decisive leadership and his commitment to the workers, in particular, and the country as a whole.

He said that the JLP was committed, as a team, not only to perpetuate the legacy of Bustamante, but also to fulfil his vision for Jamaicans, mainly, in terms of a higher standard of living.

“I believe that we can do it,” Golding said, “if we can find that common ground on which all Jamaicans can stand, regardless of political affiliation, and be passionate about it.”

“It is going to be a tall challenge, but I believe that this country can be great. I believe that we have the capacity to make up the ground that has been lost and to look at Singapore and say, watch out, we’re coming,” Golding added.

He said that his party was commited to a Jamaica in which, “every one may not be rich, but no one has to be poor.”

He said that both Sir Alexander and his contemporary, Norman Manley, had played their part and it was now up to their successors to continue the process.

President of the BITU, Ruddy Spencer, said that the BITU was “well pleased” with the efforts of the JLP to “rescue” Jamaica.

“We will continue to give you critical support,” he promised.

He also recalled Sir Alexander’s “deep and abiding concern for the poor and downtrodden”.

“Sir Alexander Bustamante had a profound concern for the welfare of people, particularly the welfare of the masses. He had the remarkable ability to grasp problems, quickly and to find solutions,” Spencer said.

Chairman of the function was JLP general secretary, Karl Samuda. Other speakers included Seragh Lakasingh, executive director of the Bustamante Foundation.

Wreaths were laid by: Golding, Spencer, JLP deputy leader Derrick Smith, Councillor Lorna Leslie on behalf of the KSAC, and Dr Joyce Robinson on behalf of the Bustamante Foundation.