Dear Editor,

St Luke told us that, “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” (St Luke 12:48)

The aforementioned verse captures the current reality of Andrew Holness, prime minister and leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).

Undoubtedly, Holness is Jamaica’s most youthful prime minister. He is perceived by many to be relatable, compassionate, fit, and visionary, among many other descriptors. His recent academic achievement in the form of a terminal degree — doctorate — has resulted in even more people viewing him as one who inspires and motivates, especially as attaining such a degree is no easy feat for the head of a country who has to provide strategic leadership and attend to myriad issues simultaneously. One should also bear in mind that he has a personal and family life to balance.

Understandably, Holness is the face of the JLP, but is he the one carrying the weight of the party?

A lot is expected of a head of State, and the electorate has different expectations. Some focus on economic stability and growth, some on infrastructural development, while others concern themselves with ethical and moral matters. When a leader fails to live up to these expectations, mistrust begins to brew. On the one hand, this explains for some — not the politically desperate ones — why there are serious concerns about the non-certification of Holness’s statutory declarations by the Integrity Commission. On the other hand, it also indicates why the prime minister is perceived as both the best and worst-performing minister, according to the latest Nationwide News Network Bluedot poll.

Even though the next general election is not constitutionally due until September 2025, it is obvious that we are well within the election season; therefore, everything that is said and done by both the JLP and People’s National Party (PNP) will be meticulously scrutinised.

A lot of purely intended messages will be purposely distorted by opponents, including vloggers and media practitioners. Unfortunately, it is the nasty nature of our politics. The PNP is adamant about regaining Government at whatever cost; thus, they are going to apply immense pressure while they rev up their bases. But what is the JLP doing?

The JLP has consistently maintained that they have improved the state of Jamaica’s economy and done numerous projects to transform essential government services. Truthfully, if we assess things from a non-partisan perspective, we can highlight some of the gains that have been achieved. But is the JLP’s message reaching the people? Party faithfuls have long lamented the poor packaging and dissemination of the JLP’s message.

As the general election draws closer, the JLP will need to improve its communication mechanism to ensure its message reaches its target voters. And it cannot be ‘vybz’ just like the PNP. Clearly defined objectives are essential to move us forward. This is an area the PNP will have to improve as well. We cannot allow the positive gains — however great or minimal — achieved over the past few years to be eroded by sloppy policies.

The JLP must also remember that the electorate does not vote directly for our prime minister. The citizens vote for their Members of Parliament. Consequently, they cannot rely solely on the popularity of the prime minister (which is now clouded by scandal) to bring them victory.

They all have to play their roles. Some have been lackadaisical in their duties, while others are hampered by their seniority.

The weight of the party needs to be carried by all its members and not just the party leader.

Oneil Madden

maddenoniel@yahoo.com