Pageantry, pomp, and political theatre
Thursday’s ceremonial opening of Parliament unfolded in a blaze of pageantry, pomp, and political theatre, fully living up to its reputation as one of the most vibrant fixtures on the national calendar. The historic precincts of Gordon House came alive as devoted supporters of the governing Jamaica Labour Party and the Opposition People’s National Party turned out, draped in party colours to cheer on their political standard-bearers.
Here are photo highlights capturing the spectacle.
Opposition Members of Parliament (from left) Dwayne Vaz, Dr Alfred Dawes, Dr Angela Brown-Burke, and Omar Newell pause for a snapshot as they and their colleagues gathered to make the traditional march to Gordon House for the ceremonial opening of the legislature on Thursday. (Photo: Karl Mclarty)
This Jamaica Labour Party supporter displays the ruling party’s victory salute while making sure to not spill her Red Stripe Beer outside Parliament on Thursday. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
Adding to the day’s political theatre this Jamaica Labour Party supporter brushes the shoes of Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness to his and his fellow Government legislators’ amusement during their walk down Duke Street to Gordon House on Thursday. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
Education Minister Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon and Opposition Member of Parliament for St Catherine North Western Damion Crawford share a warm hug outside Parliament on Thursday. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
Governor General Sir Patrick Allen inspects the guard of honour during the ceremonial opening of Parliament on Thursday.(Photo: Karl Mclarty)
Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness (foreground), Opposition Leader Mark Golding (second left) and other Members of Parliament enter the chamber at Gordon House on Thursday during the ceremonial opening of the legislature. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
