Jamaica in transition as Golding’s exit is on track

The Jamaica government has moved to dispel reports that outgoing Prime Minister Bruce Golding (pictured), could move up his timetable to quit as leader of the Jamaica Labor Party (JLP) and head of government if the party signs off on Andrew Holness as the only candidate to replace him.

In a late-afternoon statement, the minister with responsibility for information, Daryl Vaz, said that although the JLP’s parliamentary council had endorsed Andrew Holness, Golding would continue to serve in his position until the official transition and swearing-in takes place, and that that the business of government would continue as usual.

In his address to the nation on Sunday, Golding indicated that his announcement to step down as JLP leader and prime minister was timed to coincide with the dates for the annual general conference of the JLP scheduled to be held on November 19 and 20.

At least six candidates indicated an interest in replacing Golding after he announced he was quitting setting the stage for what many believed would be an enthralling contest. However, yesterday, the main aspirants used a media briefing to announce that they would be endorsing the 39-year-old Andrew Holness.

The JLP Chairman, Mike Henry, was not among those who endorsed Holness – even though it had become clear that he would not be contesting for the premier-ship. By press time, the veteran politician was reporting that he was still undecided.

All the aspirants who dropped out in favor of Holness have indicated that they were putting aside their personal ambition for the benefit of the country and the party.