Andrew Holness Defies the Odds to Secure Historic Third Term
Jamaica Live News Desk– | Sept 7, 2025
Kingston, Jamaica — On September 3, 2025 Prime Minister Andrew Holness has written his name into Jamaica’s political history books, securing an unprecedented third consecutive term as Prime Minister despite mounting pressure and resistance from powerful establishment figures.
At 53 years old, Holness not only extends his record as the youngest person ever to serve as Jamaica’s Prime Minister — first assuming office at just 39 years old in 2011 — but also cements his status as one of the most resilient and dominant leaders in the island’s modern political era.
A Victory Against the Establishment
For months leading into the election, whispers circulated in political and business circles that Holness’s time was up. Critics within the establishment openly questioned his leadership, his policies, and even his ability to survive another bruising campaign. Yet, when the ballots were counted, the people of Jamaica spoke with unmistakable clarity — granting him a victory that few predicted, but many now recognize as a defining moment in the nation’s democracy.
Supporters across the island erupted in celebration, waving flags and chanting his name late into the night. “They said he couldn’t do it, but we proved them wrong,” one jubilant voter declared in Half-Way Tree. “This victory belongs to Jamaica, not the elites.”
The Electoral Commission of Jamaica has recently announced the conclusive tally of ballots, affirming a decisive victory for the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).
According to the official tally, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) secured the majority of votes in 35 constituencies, while the People’s National Party (PNP) won 28 seats. This outcome delivers the JLP a parliamentary majority and extends its hold on government.
In addition to the General Election victory, the JLP also emerged triumphant in all three by-elections that were conducted simultaneously, further strengthening the party’s mandate across the island.
The results mark a historic milestone for Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who now leads the JLP into an unprecedented third consecutive term in office.
Political analysts note that while the JLP has retained its dominance, the close margin underscores the PNP’s continued relevance in several constituencies, signaling a competitive political landscape in the years ahead.
With the ballots counted and the mandate secured, attention now shifts to how the government will address pressing national priorities, including economic growth, wages, infrastructure, and public trust in the democratic process.
The Road Ahead
While the triumph is historic, challenges remain. Allegations of vote buying in some constituencies have already sparked controversy, and voter turnout continued to lag at historic lows. Holness will now be tasked with rebuilding public confidence in the democratic process while advancing the ambitious promises that fueled his campaign.
Yet, for now, the spotlight rests firmly on his remarkable achievement.
With Key Achievements in Health and Education: His administration also invested in strengthening the healthcare system and improving educational opportunities for Jamaican students.
Massive improvement in public transportation across the Island with the implementation of the nations American-style school rural school bus system.
Economic Stability and Growth: Debt Management: Holness’s administration successfully reduced Jamaica’s national debt, which was a significant economic challenge for the country.
Unemployment Reduction: He oversaw a notable decrease in the national unemployment rate, creating jobs and improving economic opportunities for citizens.
Investment and Tourism: His government worked to attract foreign direct investment and implemented policies to bolster the crucial tourism sector.
Infrastructure Development: Transportation: Holness promoted improvements to the country’s road networks and oversaw the expansion and modernization of Norman Manley International Airport.
Energy and Utilities: His administration focused on expanding access to electricity and improving the efficiency of utility services across Jamaica.
Social and Community Programs: Housing Solutions: The Holness government launched programs to address housing shortages and increase access to affordable housing for various segments of the population.
Youth and Community Empowerment: He supported initiatives aimed at youth development and empowering local communities to participate more actively in national development.
A Defining Legacy
In the face of doubt, criticism, and establishment resistance, Andrew Holness has shown resilience, determination, and political mastery — qualities that carried him past the noise and into the record books.
Whether one supports or opposes his leadership, history cannot ignore the weight of this victory. Andrew Holness now stands as the second Jamaican Prime Minister to achieve a third consecutive mandate and the first JLP leader to do so. For his supporters, it is proof that perseverance pays off. For his detractors, it is a reminder that the will of the people cannot be dictated by the establishment.
As the sun rises on a new chapter in Jamaica’s democracy, one truth is clear: Andrew Holness, at 53, remains Jamaica’s youngest and now one of its most enduring leaders, securing not just a seat in Gordon House, but a lasting place in the nation’s political legacy.