KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has entered a period of national and internal mourning following the death of its long-serving Deputy Treasurer Leslie Campbell, who passed away Sunday morning after an extended battle with illness. Campbell, a multi-decade public servant and accomplished legal professional, leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service to both his political party and the Jamaican people, according to senior party officials.
In an official statement released after the announcement of Campbell’s passing, JLP General Secretary Dr. Horace Chang led the party’s tributes, highlighting the deep loss the organization and the country face at his departure. “The entire Jamaica Labour Party family deeply regrets Leslie’s passing,” Chang said. “We extend our sincerest condolences to his family, loved ones, friends, and colleagues across every sector of national life where he gave so generously of his time and effort. We are grateful to Leslie’s family for sharing him with us, allowing him to commit his energy and expertise to service for his party and his nation, and we stand with them in this difficult time of grief.”
Chang went on to outline Campbell’s extensive career in public office, emphasizing the consistent excellence he brought to every role he held. A seasoned politician, Campbell won election as the Member of Parliament for Jamaica’s North East St Catherine constituency, and held multiple senior positions across government throughout his career: he served as a Cabinet Minister, a State Minister, and a Senator of Jamaica, all while building a respected reputation as a capable practicing attorney-at-law. “Leslie served our party with unwavering commitment as deputy treasurer, and represented his constituents with distinction in Parliament,” Chang noted. “We are endlessly appreciative of every contribution he made to both the JLP and the broader Jamaican nation. His legacy of service will stay with us long after his passing, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
Beyond his professional and political accomplishments, Chang emphasized that Campbell’s greatest strength lay in his character, describing him as a fundamentally kind, approachable person who never turned away a fellow Jamaican in need of support. “Above all the titles and achievements, Leslie was a decent, generous human being,” Chang said. “He was always ready to lend a hand to anyone who needed it, and that kindness is what we will remember most about him.”