KINGSTON, Jamaica — The current 42 per cent decline in murders this year, when compared to 2024, has drawn commendation from State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Senator Abka Fitz-Henley for the combined efforts of both the security forces and policymakers.

Fitz-Henley’s lauding of efforts, which have contributed to the major decline, was delivered in the Upper House of Parliament on Friday, as Jamaica is set to record its lowest annual murder rate in nearly 30 years.

Fitz-Henley commented on the state of the fight against violent crime in Jamaica as he led tributes for his former colleague, lawmaker and private sector bigwig, the late Don Wehby.

The minister reminded Parliament that during his submissions, Wehby was always passionate about the push to reduce violent crime in Jamaica, in particular murders.

“Even though we acknowledge that there is much work to be done, I know Don would have asked me to include in this tribute, our and his congratulations to the prime minister, national security minister, police commissioner and every single man and woman who serve the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force and whose sterling efforts have caused the current major 42 per cent reduction in murders this year when compared to 2024,” Fitz-Henley said.

The minister also urged the security forces not to be distracted from the mission to reduce murders in Jamaica.

“To the men and women of the JCF in particular, I know Don would want us to say keep going. The Jamaican state supports your lawful efforts, and we are hopeful that the current trajectory and gains are indicative of a turning point in our battle against violent crime,” he continued.

In further noting Wehby’s position on matters related to anti-crime measures implemented by the Holness administration, Fitz-Henley also commented on the prior use of States of Public Emergencies.

“Don was not partisan. But he was strident and prepared to defend Jamaica. He was slow to anger, but if you wanted to get him upset, all you would have to do is disparage Jamaica or take some action which could hurt this country. I recall how upset he was when the Opposition voted to discontinue States of Public Emergency despite data which showed that the vast majority of areas where the measure was declared, Jamaican lives were saved. Indeed, part of his legacy is that Don Wehby believed that as lawmakers, we should lawfully do what we can to save Jamaican lives and send a signal to criminals that enough is enough,” Fitz-Henley concluded.