As the People’s National Party (PNP)’s member of parliament (MP) candidate for the West Rural St. Andrew (WRSA) constituency, I stand completely behind the comrade leader and Leader of the Opposition the Hon. Mark Golding as he leads the party to victory in Jamaica’s next general election. With that, and in my ongoing commitment to the people of West Rural St. Andrew, I attended the parliamentary session on March 18, 2025, where Opposition Leader Mark Golding delivered his budget presentation.
I was very proud to listen to and watch the comrade leader’s presentation as he outlined the social and economic policies that will take the party forward. His address, titled “Championing Change, Growth, Opportunity, and Progress for All,” resonated deeply with my vision for our constituency and the broader Jamaican society.
1. Building an Ethical Society
Comrade Golding emphasized the urgent need to address the moral decay affecting our nation. He proposed a national campaign to foster an ethical society, highlighting the importance of respect, care, and integrity in our daily interactions. This initiative aligns with my belief that community development must be rooted in strong moral values, ensuring that our actions uplift and unify our people.
2. Advancing Education for Sustainable Growth
Education remains a cornerstone of the PNP’s strategy for national development. Comrade Golding reiterated the significance of the ‘Four Es’—Efficiency, Education, Energy, and Emerging Industries—as pillars for inclusive growth. By prioritizing education, we aim to equip our youth with the skills necessary to thrive in a modern economy. This focus mirrors my dedication to enhancing educational opportunities in West Rural St. Andrew, ensuring our children are prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
3. Addressing the Cost of Living
The escalating cost of living continues to burden many Jamaicans. Comrade Golding acknowledged this crisis and emphasized the need for creative solutions to alleviate financial pressures on families. His commitment to implementing policies that ease economic hardships aligns with my advocacy for practical measures that directly benefit our constituents, such as affordable housing and accessible healthcare services.
4. Promoting Transparency and Accountability
A recurring theme in Comrade Golding’s presentation was the call for greater transparency and accountability in governance. He stressed the importance of holding public officials to high ethical standards and ensuring that resources are managed responsibly. This perspective reinforces my stance on the necessity of transparent leadership and the responsible stewardship of public funds to foster trust and drive meaningful progress in our communities.
5. Empowering Communities Through Inclusive Policies
Comrade Golding’s vision for Jamaica includes empowering communities by implementing inclusive policies that address the unique needs of each constituency. This approach resonates with my commitment to community-driven development in West Rural St. Andrew. By actively engaging with residents and understanding their specific challenges, we can craft solutions that promote equity and foster a sense of ownership and pride among our people.
Conclusion
Comrade Golding’s budget presentation outlined a comprehensive plan for national development that places people at the center of progress. His emphasis on ethical leadership, education, economic relief, transparency, and community empowerment mirrors the values I uphold as a representative of West Rural St. Andrew. Together, under the banner of the People’s National Party, we are poised to usher in a new era of growth and opportunity for all Jamaicans.
For a detailed look at Comrade Mark Golding’s 2025 Budget Presentation, you can access the full speech here: 2025 Budget Speech PDF.
