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| Jamaican Politics |
| Jamaica's political background is very similar
to Britain. A vibrant and competitive two party system thrives
in the island. The Jamaica Labour Party and the People's National
Party are the dominant political forces. A third party the National
Democratic Movement is not a significant contender. The Jamaican
political climate has always been inhospitable to third parties
and it appears to be no different with the our most recent one
the National Democratic Movement (NDM). |
| In recent years an uncomfortable level of
violence has entered Jamaican politics. 'Garrison' communities,
neighbourhoods protected by 'gunmen' are not prevalent but certainly
a concerning problem. Despite this our country remains a vibrantly
democratic environment where the 'rule of law' persists and our
journey towards one people out of many continues. |
| The People's National
Party |
| The People's National
Party was founded by 1938 under the leadership of Norman
Washington Manley, one of the island's most brilliant lawyers.
The party was led by Norman Manley for 31 years before it was
turned over to his son, Michael Manley. The PNP has been in power
for over a decade under Prime Minister The Hon. P. J. Patterson.
The PNP is affiliated with the National Workers Union another
of our labour unions. It is known primarily as a socialist party. |
| The Jamaica Labour
Party |
The Jamaica Labour
Party founded in 1943 by Alexander Bustamante, the Jamaica
Labour Party, a conservative party has been out of power for
more than a decade. It is now led by Edward Seaga an ex-Prime
Minister.
The party has always been a promoter of free enterprise and had much economic success while
in power. Unfortunately Mr. Seaga's management style has led to some disaffection within his
party and among his supporters.
The party is presently conducting a modest overall and rebuild in preparation for anticipated
elections. The JLP is affiliated to the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union, one of the island's
most vibrant labour organizations. |
