Mark Golding: “We Are Not Coming to Government with Empty Hands — We Are Coming with Plans”
July 23, 2025 – Jamaica Live | News Desk
People’s National Party (PNP) President, Mark Golding, is signaling that his party is ready to take the reins of government — not with vague promises, but with concrete plans and backing from investors.
Speaking recently, Golding revealed that he has been engaged in strategic discussions with local and international investors who are interested in supporting several key projects should the PNP win the next general election. While remaining cautious about revealing full details, the Opposition Leader hinted at more than 20 integrated initiatives spanning industries such as health and wellness, logistics, infrastructure, and more.
“I had breakfast recently with some investors who shared plans for about 20 projects,” Golding said. “These are not just ideas, these are integrated opportunities with significant potential. We’re not coming to government empty-handed.”
Investors Ready — But Plans Still Under Wraps
Golding noted that while the interest from investors is strong, his team is being strategic about when and how much they reveal publicly. According to him, it’s about timing, readiness, and ensuring all the moving parts align before making official announcements.
This posture may signal confidence, but it also raises questions among the Jamaican public about transparency and feasibility.
Key Concerns That Must Be Addressed:
Without names or national affiliations, it’s unclear whether these are local business interests, diaspora investors, multinational corporations, or foreign state-backed entities (e.g., Chinese, American, or Middle Eastern developers). Each category brings different risks and obligations — including questions around transparency, ownership, and influence.
Where Are These Projects Located?
If any of the 20 proposed projects are tied to sectors like logistics, infrastructure, or tourism, there’s potential for them to overlap with or border wetlands, mangrove forests, or coastal swamp areas — particularly in parishes like St. Thomas, St. Elizabeth, and Portland, which are both rich in biodiversity and prime targets for development.
The Crossroads: Golding’s Vision vs. Holness’ Record
With Jamaica likely heading into a heated election season, Golding’s statements position him as a leader with a blueprint for transformation. However, the electorate is being asked to weigh those plans — some of which remain undisclosed — against the record of the incumbent, Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
Holness, leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), has built a reputation for infrastructure development, improved macroeconomic indicators, and international partnerships, including high-profile projects in tourism, housing, and education. His administration has also launched national programmes such as the Rural School Bus System and the Jamaica SmartFare transit upgrade.
Golding, however, is challenging the idea that development is exclusive to the JLP, arguing that the PNP is not only ready to lead but also already engaged with stakeholders poised to accelerate Jamaica’s growth.
Who Should Jamaicans Trust?
This moment poses a critical question for Jamaicans:
Should the country place its trust in Mark Golding and the PNP’s promises of investor-backed projects and bold vision — or stay the course with Andrew Holness and a government that has delivered tangible development?
As both leaders intensify their campaigns, the Jamaican people will have to decide whether to bet on Golding’s future plans or Holness’ proven track record.
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Stay tuned to Jamaica Live for in-depth coverage, political analysis, and updates leading into the upcoming election season.