KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Jamaica is celebrating its 62nd anniversary of political independence from Britain on Tuesday with its main political leaders expressing different position regarding the future direction of the country.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness in his message said that Jamaica as an independent country, has to be able to withstand external shocks and deal with crises without relying on the resources of other countries.
“We have built a new system of government that is more robust, self-reliant, and strategic. In fact, that is what it means to be independent , the ability to withstand shocks and deal with crises without having to rely or be dependent on the resources of others or be indebted to others.
“At 62, Jamaica must be able to stand on its own two feet and face the challenges and uncertainties of this era of globalised world and the changing climate,” Holness said in his message.
But Opposition Leader Mark Golding, used his message to continue the call for abolishing the the British monarchy, insisting “our journey to independence is incomplete..
“Our head of state is the King of England and our final court, the UK Privy Council, a colonial institution in England that makes orders in the name of the King and is inaccessible to ordinary Jamaicans. It is time to reaffirm our national identity and assert the confidence to shape our own destiny.
“Time come to sever ties with the British Monarchy and become a fully sovereign nation, with the executive and judicial branches of our State being institutions of our own creation, in keeping with our vision of the future as a proud and independent people,” he said.
Prime Minister Holness said the greatest danger for Jamaica is the increased frequency of severe weather events like hurricanes having serious physical and economic impacts even when they do not hit directly.
“Almost every year for the last eight years we have been faced with global crises, including a pandemic, and extreme weather events that have seriously affected our island. We must all develop the understanding that we live in an era where governments must deal with multiple crises, which overlap and occur frequently,” he said.
He said that these crises have the potential to displace communities, disrupt growth, compound debt, and increase poverty, noting for example, that in 2009 Jamaica was impacted by a global recession, which impacted the country’s growth and employment, and increased its debt.”
It took us 10 years to recover our GDP [gross domestic product] to 2009 levels,” he said.
“In 2020, Jamaica was impacted by a global pandemic which derailed our growth and employment and increased our debt. Within two years, Jamaica had recovered its growth and employment and was back on track with reducing its debt. This is not by accident,” he added.
In his Independence Day message, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, said the country honours the vision and sacrifices of those who laboured before.
“Their enduring dreams outlived their lifetimes and laid the foundation for subsequent generations. Our nation stands as a testament to those dreams and aspirations, evidenced by our thriving industries, advancements in education and health care, and the continuous flourishing of our cultural heritage. These accomplishments are the fruits of their labour and dreams realised,” he said.
The Head of State noted that the world is evolving, providing opportunities for Jamaica to develop even further and that Jamaicans must embrace the possibilities of technology, sustainable development, and global partnerships “with the same fervour and determination that marked our Independence in 1962.
“Our priority must be to innovate, educate, and build a society where every citizen can thrive,” he said, adding “together, let us forge forward in a way that honours our past and capitalises on the possibilities available to us. Let us continue to build a strong nation that remains a beacon of hope, progress, and unity for all.”
Meanwhile, the Caribbean Community (CAARICOM) grouping has congratulated Jamaica saying that the theme for the observance “Jamaica 62: One Love to the World” is a fitting expression and reflection of Jamaica’s indelible contributions to the Community and profound global impact.
“ Indeed, Jamaica continues to provide a leading voice in international affairs, and has set a standard of excellence in sports, music and the arts, inspiring millions worldwide,” said CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett in her message.
She said as a founding member of CARICOM, Jamaica continues to play a significant leadership role in the region’s pursuit of regional integration and development.
“This has been demonstrated through diplomacy, international trade, and advocacy on several issues of importance in the critical area of external trade negotiations, for which you, Prime Minister, hold lead responsibility in CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet of Heads of Government. Likewise, we recognise Jamaica’s unwavering support to our sister nation, Haiti, as it charts its path to peace and stability.
”Prime Minister, the Caribbean Community continues to stand in solidarity with Jamaica, as communities across the island seek to rebuild following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl.
”As Jamaicans unite to celebrate with just pride on this Sixty-Second Anniversary of Independence, we commend your achievements and look forward to continued collaboration towards a stronger, more peaceful and more prosperous future,” Barnett added.
Meantime, Olympic champion Hansle Parchment and veteran dancehall entertainers Moses ‘Beenie Man’ Davis and Rodney ‘Bounty Killer’ Price are among 150 Jamaicans being bestowed with national awards.
Parchment, who is currently a member of the Jamaica team at the Paris 2024 Olympics in France, is being honoured with membership in the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander for his exceptional achievements in athletics at the World and Olympic levels.
Both Davis and Price, long-time rivals turned friends, are being hailed for their contribution to the development of Jamaican music and specifically dancehall and are to join the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang and Leader of Government Business in the House of Representatives, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, are among eight Jamaicans receiving membership in the Order of Jamaica, the nations fourth highest national honour.
The two are being awarded for outstanding contribution to public service and politics, with Chang serving over 31 years in representational politics and 22 years as a government minister and Bartlett 38 years and 21 years, respectively.
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