Jamaican Prime Minister Holness Wins Third Term After Tight Election

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness secured a third consecutive term following a closely contested general election, with his Jamaica Labour Party winning at least 34 of the 63 House of Representatives seats, while the opposition People's National Party led by Mark Golding won at least 29 seats. Holness’ administration has been credited with a 43% drop in killings this year, attributed to increased firearm seizures and a stronger security presence, although human rights groups have raised concerns about alleged illegal detentions and the balance between security and civil liberties. The Jamaica Labour Party campaigned on its success in reducing violence, fiscal responsibility, and economic growth, including a pledge to double the minimum wage if re-elected. Voter turnout was low at 38.8%, only slightly higher than in the previous election during the pandemic. Golding conceded defeat but expressed disappointment, while Holness thanked voters for their trust and emphasized continuing progress toward a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Jamaica. Following the election, Holness will appoint the majority of senators in the upper chamber, consolidating his party’s legislative influence.