Prime Minister Holness: “We did not discover oil. We discovered good government.”
Prime Minister Urges Jamaicans to Guard Their Future with Informed Choices
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has issued a call for national vigilance and thoughtful democratic participation, noting that Jamaica’s ongoing development is not the result of sudden windfalls or chance, but of disciplined governance, effective leadership, and long-term planning.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Port Antonio Bypass test (June 26), the Prime Minister drew comparisons with Guyana’s rapid transformation fueled by oil discoveries, stating:
“Guyana is changing daily; new highways, bridges, and buildings are reshaping their capital. But here in Jamaica, we are also building, transforming communities, and creating real progress. The difference is not oil. We didn’t discover oil. We discovered good government.”
Highlighting Jamaica’s achievements across infrastructure, crime reduction, and economic management, the Prime Minister urged citizens not to take progress for granted, warning against treating elections like sporting rivalries.
“I understand that many Jamaicans support political parties like they support football teams. But voting is not a game. The consequences of supporting the wrong government can determine the direction of your life, your children’s future, and your community’s development.”
He cautioned against misinformation and the growing influence of social media content that distorts facts and preys on pre-existing bias.
“There are those who say government doesn’t matter, but at the same time they want to be government. Which is it? If crime reduction isn’t due to good governance, why claim you can do it better? The truth is, governance matters. Leadership matters. And we must stay vigilant.”
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government’s track record, pointing to visible national projects such as the South Coast Highway, the Morant Bay Urban Centre, and wide-ranging improvements in public infrastructure.
“This is not blind faith. This is faith backed by substance. When we say we are going to build, we show you the roads. When we say we are going to deliver, we deliver. Good government is not a slogan. It is a system of leadership rooted in results.”
As the country approaches a season of electoral choice, the Prime Minister urged all Jamaicans to think carefully, stay informed, and reject emotional voting.
“Do not believe that this level of development continues automatically with a change in government. We have done the work, and the record speaks for itself. Choose wisely. Choose vision. Choose results. Choose Jamaica.”