Jamaica’s PM Golding will continue Prime Ministerial duties until official transition takes effect

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Minister with responsibility for Information Daryl Vaz, says that although the JLP’s Parliamentary council has given its endorsement for Education Minister, Andrew Holness to take over the leadership of the JLP and ultimately as Prime Minister, Prime Minister Bruce Golding will continue to serve in this position until an official transition and swearing in takes place at a time and date yet to be determined.

Mr. Vaz has also assured that the business of government will continue as is customary. He noted that Parliament had adjourned and will resume business at a date to be announced.

‘The adjournment of Parliament has nothing to do with the announcement of Education Minister Holness to the leadership position of the party and position of Prime Minister. Everything remains as indicated by Prime Minister Golding and outlined in his statement to the nation on Sunday’, Mr. Vaz said.

In his address on Sunday, Mr. Golding had 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. As stipulated in the party’s constitution, the deadline for nominations is October 19 and so sufficient time had to be allowed for the delegates to consider offering themselves and to meet the October 19 nomination deadline, Mr. Golding said.

Mr. Vaz said an official transition and swearing in date will be announced but in the meantime, Prime Minister Golding will continue to conduct his duties as head of the government.