Andrew Holness to be sworn in as PM today

(Gleaner) – The spotlight will today be focused on the lawns of King’s House, the governor general’s official residence and the scenic setting where Andrew Holness (pictured), is set to create history when he takes the oath of office as Jamaica’s ninth prime minister.

Holness will, at age 39, become the youngest prime minister of Jamaica and a member of a small band of youthful politicians in the region to shoulder the weight of supreme leadership in their countries’ political structures before they reached the age of 40.

Holness joins Bharrat Jagdeo, who became Guyana’s president at 35 in 1999, and Roosevelt Skerritt, who took up the reins of prime minister of Dominica at 32, back in 2004.

Outgoing prime minister, Bruce Golding, last week fast-tracked the remainder of his governance-reform agenda through Parliament, paving the way for the third-term parliamentarian, who has served as leader of government business in the House of Representatives, and by extension, the man responsible for electoral matters in that chamber, as well as the all-important education portfolio.

Many Jamaicans are seemingly hopeful, yet apprehensive, about the prospect of the young politician assuming the challenging mantle of leadership. “You think him ready for it yet?” is a question that lingers on the lips of many who walk the streets.

If the swearing-in ceremony of Holness’ predecessor, Bruce Golding, four years ago, serves as a guide, today’s affair is likely to be attended by the three living former prime ministers, as well as the outgoing one.

Among them is expected to be former prime minister and JLP leader, Edward Seaga, who groomed both Golding and Holness in their earlier days. He is expected to be there to give Holness his blessing.

Former prime minister-turned-elder statesman, P.J. Patterson, is likely to be in attendance as he was on September 11, 2007, on Golding’s big day.

Portia Simpson Miller is also likely be there to extend a congratulatory embrace before engaging in the battle royal that is expected after the new prime minister is sworn in.