Kingston, Jamaica—The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has expressed sadness at the passing of veteran journalist and media practitioner Owen James, who died on Thursday.

Opposition spokesperson on information, Nekeisha Burchell, in a media release on Thursday, said James “was more than a journalist; he was a trusted voice who helped Jamaicans make sense of financial news with clarity and depth.”

“As a young girl, I remember tuning in to primetime news and immediately recognising the voice of Owen James—one that inspired confidence, offered reassurance, and provided a sense of stability in an ever-changing economic climate. He was more than a journalist; he was a trusted voice who helped Jamaicans make sense of financial news with clarity and depth. His work shaped how we understand economic issues, and his absence will be deeply felt in the media landscape,” she said.

She said James was one of the last members of a generation of journalists who brought an undeniable authority to their craft—journalists who not only reported the news but shaped national understanding with their depth of knowledge and professionalism.

“His impact extended beyond the newsroom, influencing how Jamaicans engaged with financial matters and understood the broader economic landscape. The PNP recognises and honours Owen James’ invaluable contributions to journalism, business reporting, and public discourse. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and colleagues during this significant loss. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future journalists,” the PNP spokesperson stated.

READ: Press Association of Jamaica mourns death of veteran journalist Owen James