The recent actions of the Andrew Holness-led Government have left nationals home and abroad reeling in disbelief and anger.

From the exorbitant 200 per cent salary increase for politicians to the paltry increases in packages for public sector workers in comparison, it is evident that the Government’s priorities lie not with the well-being of its citizens but with self-serving interests.

The cumulative retroactive payment package resulting from these exorbitant salary increases is an outrageous display of fiscal irresponsibility. It is a slap in the face to hard-working Jamaican taxpayers, who are struggling to make ends meet. This unjustifiable windfall further highlights the Government’s disconnect from the economic realities faced by ordinary citizens. How can it be justifiable that teachers, who play a critical role in shaping the future of Jamaica, are offered a meagre increase of $30,000 over three years, while others, some uneducated and unqualified, bask in exorbitant salary hikes.

While ordinary citizens face rising costs, high unemployment rates, and inadequate social services, the Government shamelessly rewards itself with astronomical pay raises. This move not only reveals a lack of empathy but also underscores the Government’s detachment from the daily struggles of its people. There is growing resentment, mistrust, and disillusionment among Jamaicans with the once popular prime minister and his Government.

Recent surveys reveal an 18 per cent increase among those who perceive our Government as very corrupt and 29 per cent as extremely corrupt.

Meanwhile, meagre salary increases for some teachers and others compared to exorbitant raises for politicians highlight skewed priorities. It is a clear betrayal of public trust and a testament to the self-serving nature of those in power. It is a slap in the face of every hard-working Jamaican struggling to make ends meet and a shameful display of misplaced priorities, highlighting a lack of appreciation for those who tirelessly serve the nation.

The Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke’s attempt to present a positive outlook on Jamaica’s economy cannot mask the deep-seated issues and our vulnerabilities. The nation continues to rely heavily on imports and external financing, and despite the external support, we remain highly susceptible to global economic shocks. Yet the focus of our Government is to reward, by their own admission, undeserving politicians, who have failed to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on volatile sectors, which exacerbates our economic fragility and the growth of crime.

Furthermore, the persistently high inflation rates, well above the central bank’s target range, severely erode the purchasing power of Jamaicans, particularly the most vulnerable segments of society, including those to whom increases were recently granted.

While ministers tour the Diaspora spouting fairy tales about five per cent growth, the country’s meagre B rating remains and is a stark testament to the Government’s inability to address fundamental economic challenges, instil confidence in investors, and effectively navigate the path towards sustainable growth.

Urgent reforms and proactive measures are necessary to rectify these deep-rooted issues.

The Andrew Holness-led Government’s recent decisions have exposed a severe disconnect between those in power and the needs of the people.

It is imperative for the Government to swiftly address these concerns, restore public trust, and implement sound economic policies that prioritise the well-being of all Jamaicans. Even if this Government has the competence, it is evident this is not its priority.

Verrol Tomlinson writes from Mandeville, Jamaica.