Dear Editor,

One, two, three, green light! The recent conference of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) was a showing like no other. The base supporters of the party rolled out in their numbers; the old, middle-aged, and especially the young. They came from the four corners of the country.

This conference, which took place on Sunday, November 24, 2024, was an important event, as it marked a pivotal moment for the party as it prepares for the next general election, expected in 2025. Prime Minister Andrew Holness and the JLP leadership used the conference to rally supporters, emphasise the party’s achievements, and articulate their vision for Jamaica’s future.

The atmosphere at the National Arena was filled with jubilation and festivity as scores of Labourites rolled in all clad in vibrant green resembling a lush green and prosperous garden.

The sound of the bells pealed loudly for the most part taking the place of the vuvuzela, green flags waved, and chants of ‘Showa Labourite’ rang out. The jingle filled the air, “Labour party marching on, marching on to victory… Me and mi neighbour, voting for Labour’. The labourites have arrived!

The presentations made by the speakers were filled with substance as each addressed a specific matter. The crowd remained disciplined as they were fed a steady diet of achievements and stellar performance of the Andrew Holness-led Administration. Holness’s leadership was framed as the stabilising force keeping the economy and society on track.

The prime minister solidified his leadership role at the JLP conference, presenting himself as the steady hand guiding the country through challenging times. He highlighted the economic achievements of the past four years, citing a steady increase in gross domestic product (GDP), lower unemployment rates, and improvements in Jamaica’s credit ratings.

The overarching theme of the 2024 conference was the vision for a prosperous Jamaica, with the prime minister stressing the importance of creating sustainable economic growth, improving social services, and maintaining public safety. The JLP painted a picture of a country that could achieve its full potential through continued investments in infrastructure, education, and technology.

At the same time, the JLP attempted to mitigate the impact of criticisms from the Opposition and signal its preparedness to tackle the ongoing challenges of inflation, poverty, and crime in the lead-up to the election. As Jamaica approaches the next general election, the conference reinforced the JLP’s positioning as the party of stability, progress and prosperity, with a clear focus on youth, economic modernisation, and national security.

The achievements are loud, and prosperity path is clear; the best is yet to come. It’s on ready, set, Labourites!

Sandra Currie

c/o sandragayle888@gmail.com