Jamaica: Golding asserts that a forthcoming PNP government will designate Bob Marley as National Hero

Jamaican Opposition leader Mark Golding has announced that a future People’s National Party (PNP) government intends to designate reggae icon Bob Marley as Jamaica’s next national hero. Golding made this pledge on Tuesday during his address to the 2024/25 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives.

Expressing his commitment to the country’s culture and creative industries, Golding declared, “when we form the next government, I commit to conferring the Order of National Hero on the Honorable Robert Nesta Marley for his service of a most distinguished nature in advancing Jamaican culture and his global impact as a liberating inspirational force for oppressed people across the world.”

His statement was met with resounding applause from the Opposition benches.

Golding emphasized the significance of recognizing Bob Marley’s contributions, stating, “I say time come to recognize the ‘Gong’ as a true national hero and confer the honor on him accordingly.”

In addition to honoring Marley, Golding outlined the PNP’s plans to prioritize the creative industries, including ensuring adequate funding. He cited the impact of the Bob Marley One Love biopic as evidence of the cultural and economic importance of nurturing Jamaica’s creative sector.

Golding highlighted the allocation of J$234 million (US$1.52 million) in the Budget to the Jamaican Screen Development Initiative, endorsed by the PNP. He also pledged to develop JamWorld and Fort Rocky as 24-hour entertainment zones, marking a significant step forward after years of stagnation.

Furthermore, Golding announced the PNP’s commitment to developing a comprehensive Master Plan to support and incentivize the cultural, creative, and sports industries. This plan will address investment, education, training, and infrastructure development for practitioners in these fields.