In a comprehensive New Year’s address, Jamaican Opposition Leader Mark Golding outlined a vision of accountable governance and national unity while reflecting on the catastrophic Hurricane Melissa that devastated the nation in 2025. The People’s National Party (PNP) leader emphasized reconstruction with resilience as Jamaica enters 2026, promising intensified parliamentary scrutiny of government operations.
Golding acknowledged the extraordinary humanitarian response that followed the natural disaster, noting that ‘Jamaicans at home and abroad demonstrated unprecedented generosity through container shipments and relief missions to affected communities.’ He described how citizens rallied behind national colors in ‘a torrent of love, caring and support for our fellow Jamaicans in need.’
The Opposition Leader highlighted significant electoral gains made by the PNP in the September general elections, where the party gained approximately 100,000 additional votes and doubled its parliamentary representation to 28 seats. ‘This mandate indicates many Jamaicans seek leadership embracing integrity, accountability, and responsive governance,’ Golding stated, adding that the strengthened opposition position enables more forceful scrutiny of government actions.
Rejecting partisan approaches to disaster recovery, Golding committed to constructive opposition: ‘We have avoided any temptation to make political mileage out of this disaster. We recognize national unity is desired and needed.’ He outlined specific priorities including transparent distribution of relief resources, restoration of critical infrastructure, and expanded mental health support for trauma victims.
Golding emphasized the dual challenge of physical reconstruction and trust-building, stating: ‘The Jamaica we are striving to rebuild must be one where investment decisions are people-centered, opportunities are accessible to youth and persons with disabilities, women are empowered, the elderly supported, and vulnerable families strengthened.’
The PNP leader concluded with a personal pledge to prioritize national interest and responsible governance, urging Jamaicans to ‘live with purpose and kindness’ while supporting local businesses and hurricane-affected communities throughout the recovery process.