Seaga backs Holness’ call for unity to move country forward

Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) President Metry Seaga has joined Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness in urging the opposition People’s National Party (PNP) to engage in meaningful collaboration on the constitutional reform process under the new administration.

Speaking with The Gleaner shortly after Holness was sworn in for a third consecutive term at King’s House on Tuesday, Seaga called for unity on national issues.

“For too long, we have been divided on things that are too important to be divided politically. For too long, we have used politics and tipped around some very important issues. We can’t allow that to happen anymore. It’s time now to really come together and do what is right for Jamaica,” he said.

Holness echoed this sentiment during his inaugural address after being sworn in, issuing a call to action to Opposition Leader-designate Mark Golding.

“I extend my hand to the leader of the Opposition to create a space for the national interest. Mark, let us partner together to complete the work we started on making Jamaica a republic,” he said.

SEEKING CLARITY

In February of this year, the Opposition paused its participation in the Constitutional Reform Committee, citing a lack of clarity from the Government on the issue of Jamaica’s final appellate court. Golding insisted they were not boycotting but seeking answers – particularly on why the Holness administration had not committed to replacing the UK-based Privy Council with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

During the recent election debates, Holness reiterated support for a local final court. While he said he “respects” the CCJ, Holness argued that Jamaicans must be consulted, accusing the Opposition of “thwarting” the process. Golding, however, maintains that a referendum is not legally required to adopt the CCJ, pointing to other countries that have done so without public votes, and noting there were good reasons for this.

With elections concluded, Holness called for unity and a renewed focus on nation-building.

“The time has come where we must get over the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat, put aside heartiness and bitterness, unfold our arms, unclench our fists, retract accusatory fingers, and embrace each other. Regardless of the outcome, we must choose Jamaica. I recommit to leading an inclusive and consultative government,” he said.

Holness also committed to inclusive governance, promising to work with a broad range of stakeholders, including the National Partnership Council, churches, unions, youth, civil society, and the private sector.

Seaga praised the prime minister’s tone, saying Holness “struck all the right notes”, but added, “the proof will be in the pudding”.

He emphasised the need to maintain economic momentum.

“We have to grow our economy and I’m happy he spoke about that growth and I want to make sure that we have the growth in this term. If the prime minister doesn’t achieve the growth, all of the hard work that we did is in danger of being lapsed,” the PSOJ president said.

sashana.small@gleanerjm.com