Kingston, Jamaica – September 4, 2025 – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has secured a third consecutive term in office after his Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) narrowly defeated the opposition People’s National Party (PNP) in a fiercely contested general election.
Close Race, Low Turnout
The JLP captured 34 seats in the 63-member House of Representatives, edging past the PNP’s 29 seats. Voter participation remained strikingly low, with turnout reported at just under 40 percent, reflecting ongoing public frustration with politics despite the high stakes of the election.
Achievements and Criticisms
Holness campaigned on a platform of stability and economic progress, highlighting his government’s record of reducing the homicide rate by more than 40 percent, lowering unemployment to a historic 3.3 percent, and making strides in cutting poverty and national debt.
However, his administration has faced mounting criticism over corruption allegations and the use of extended states of emergency. While these measures have been credited with improving security, human rights groups have warned of their impact on civil liberties.
Key Promises Ahead
Looking ahead, Holness has pledged ambitious reforms, including a plan to double the national minimum wage. The proposal has been welcomed by workers but raised concerns among business leaders, particularly in tourism and service industries worried about rising labor costs.
Opposition Response
PNP leader Mark Golding conceded defeat and congratulated Holness, while also calling for stronger governance, more transparency, and policies that directly address the cost of living crisis.
What Comes Next
Holness enters his third term with both momentum and pressure. While his victory demonstrates confidence in his leadership, the narrow margin and low voter turnout underline a growing demand for accountability, reform, and broader public engagement in Jamaica’s democratic process.
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