After Months of Tension, Holness and Chief Curry Stand Together in Accompong
Jamaica Live News Desk– | Dec 2, 2025
Prime Minister Andrew Holness journeyed into the heart of Accompong, St. Elizabeth, where the damage left behind by Hurricane Melissa has reshaped one of Jamaica’s most historic and culturally significant communities. His visit came after months of public tension and perceived conflict between the Government and Accompong Chief Richard Currie — but on the ground, both leaders put differences aside for the greater good of the Maroon community and the nation.
Holness toured the damaged district alongside Chief Curry, observing firsthand the extensive destruction. According to the Prime Minister, Accompong has roughly 260 homes, and approximately 80 percent were damaged at varying levels. What he saw, he said, was not just devastation, but the unmistakable spirit of Jamaican resilience.
“My presence was to reaffirm that there is no community for which the Government of Jamaica is not responsible. There is no place where the Government should be absent, and no Jamaican community will ever be neglected or taken for granted,” Holness wrote on social media after the visit.
He emphasized that unity in times of disaster is not optional — it is essential. Despite the differing views that have previously defined the relationship between the Maroon leadership and the central government, both sides agreed that rebuilding Accompong requires cooperation, not conflict.
Community Strength Meets Government Support
Holness highlighted the efforts already underway inside Accompong, including the restoration of the Accompong Primary School roof by a member of the Maroon diaspora. Chief Curry also demonstrated community-led initiatives to improve water access, communication support through Starlink internet devices, and other local recovery projects.
“What I saw on the ground reflects our heritage of self-reliance and community effort,” the Prime Minister said.
“Communities are stepping forward, doing what they can within their means, and those efforts deserve recognition.”
On his part, Chief Curry stated that he is ready to work collaboratively to ensure Accompong receives the critical assistance it needs.
But Holness also made clear that while community strength is powerful, the scale of destruction is far beyond what Accompong can manage alone. Restoring electricity, water systems, agriculture, schools, roads, and commercial life requires full national intervention — and the Government, he said, is fully engaged.
JDF Engineers to Lead Roof Restorations
One of the most immediate needs in Accompong is roofing. Many families remain exposed to the elements as the rainy season continues.
Holness directed the Jamaica Defence Force engineering corps to begin assisting with roof restoration efforts so families can rebuild quickly and children can safely return to school on January 6.
International support is also being finalized, with engineering teams from Ethiopia, Ghana, Rwanda, and other partner nations expected to join the recovery mission once arrival dates are confirmed.
From Food Trucks to Building Supplies
The Prime Minister announced that Jamaica is now transitioning from the emergency phase into full recovery. As a result, residents will soon see fewer trucks carrying food packages and more vehicles delivering building materials and supplies needed for reconstruction.
For those still needing basic assistance, the Government will implement a coupon and digital support system, allowing residents to access essential goods directly from shops within their community — restoring dignity, convenience, and local commerce.
Restoring Accompong’s Economy and Infrastructure
Holness said he has instructed Minister Aubyn Hill to work closely with the 38 commercial establishments affected in Accompong to revive economic activity as quickly as possible.
Electricity restoration has been identified as a top priority, and the Prime Minister said he will be directing the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) to accelerate its work in the area.
“Recovery is faster and more effective when we move together,” Holness stressed.
“There are always voices trying to divide the people from their Government, but in moments of disaster we must be one.”
A New Chapter for Government–Maroon Relations?
While tensions between Chief Curry and Prime Minister Holness have been well-publicized, their cooperative engagement in Accompong marks a pivotal moment. Both men appeared committed to setting aside past disputes in favor of a unified recovery mission.
Holness reaffirmed the Government’s long-term commitment:
“The Government is here. We will remain here. And we will rebuild this community stronger than before.”
As Accompong rebuilds — spiritually, structurally, and economically — the partnership between national leadership and Maroon governance may signal the beginning of a more collaborative era.
What is clear is this: Jamaica is strongest when its people and leaders move as one.