Kingston, Jamaica – Dr. Andrew Holness was officially sworn in as Prime Minister of Jamaica for a third consecutive term on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s political history. The ceremony, held at King’s House and presided over by Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, followed a decisive victory for his Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in the general election held on September 3, 2025. This mandate solidifies Holness’s leadership, making him the first leader of the JLP to secure three back-to-back terms in office, a feat previously achieved only by P.J. Patterson of the People’s National Party (PNP).
Election Mandate and Historic Victory
The general election saw the JLP secure 35 out of the 63 seats in Parliament, narrowly defeating the main opposition, the People’s National Party (PNP), which garnered 28 seats. The campaign was described as fiercely contested, with Prime Minister Holness emphasizing the discipline and focus required for victory, stating, “This was not victory by default. Make no mistake about it. This was a fight”. The preliminary results indicated a close race, underscoring the tight contest between the two major political forces in the Caribbean nation.
This election outcome is particularly historic for Dr. Holness, who first assumed the role of Prime Minister in October 2011 and then returned to power following the 2016, 2020, and 2025 general elections. His swearing-in on September 16, 2025, marked his fourth time taking the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Office as Prime Minister, solidifying his third consecutive mandate.
A Legacy of Progress and Future Aspirations
The JLP’s victory is partly attributed to its performance during the previous terms, marked by efforts to improve the economy and reduce crime. Under Holness’s leadership, Jamaica has seen significant strides in reducing public debt, which fell from over 140% of GDP in 2013 to 73.4% in the fiscal year 2023-2024. The economy was projected to grow by 1.7% in the current year. Crime reduction has also been a key focus, with reports indicating a substantial drop in killings attributed to increased firearm seizures and a stronger security presence.
Despite these achievements, the Prime Minister also faced scrutiny regarding his income and assets declarations, a matter he has consistently denied, deeming related reports unfair.
In his inaugural address following the swearing-in, Dr. Holness outlined a vision for Jamaica’s future, vowing to make the nation a global model for small states. His administration’s priorities include eradicating absolute poverty, elevating culture and creativity as economic drivers, leveraging the island’s geographic advantages, and enhancing human capital development. Key objectives also involve modernizing government, continuing the fight against crime, reducing violence, and strengthening Jamaica’s diplomatic presence on the global stage.
“This term is not about my legacy; it is about Jamaica’s destiny,” Holness stated, emphasizing that the mandate is a “summons to continue to serve with vision, wisdom and integrity, more diligently, more inclusively, with even greater urgency”. He also extended an invitation for national unity, calling for collaboration with the Opposition and all sectors of society to advance the national interest. The JLP’s 2025 manifesto includes pledges related to economic growth, infrastructure development, social well-being, and governance reform, with a focus on increasing tax thresholds and reducing personal income tax over time.
Regional Dynamics and Contemporary News
This period is marked by significant developments across the Caribbean news landscape. As Chairman of CARICOM, Prime Minister Holness had also been instrumental in announcing that four CARICOM member states – Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines – were on track to implement full free movement among themselves starting October 1, 2025. This initiative aims to foster deeper regional integration and economic cooperation.
Concurrently, the United States government, under the Trump administration, identified five Caribbean nations, including Jamaica, as major drug transit or production states for Fiscal Year 2026. This designation, based on geographic and economic factors, highlights ongoing regional security concerns. The broader political environment in the Caribbean in 2025 also reflects evolving relationships with the United States and a push for diversified global partnerships.
Looking Ahead
Prime Minister Holness’s third consecutive term signals a period of continuity for Jamaica. The administration faces the ongoing task of balancing economic development with social progress, addressing crime, and navigating complex regional and international relationships. The public’s expectations are high, with a focus on delivering tangible improvements in public services and ensuring prosperity for all Jamaicans. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether the JLP can build upon its past achievements and fulfill its ambitious vision for Jamaica’s future.