The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) will form that country's next Government, after defeating the People's National Party (PNP) at General Elections on Thursday, February 25, 2016.  JLP Party Leader, Mr. Andrew Holness, will become the nation's next Prime Minister, replacing Mrs. Portia Simpson-Miller. In Thursday's polls, the JLP won 33 seats and the PNP 30.

Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, has congratulated Mr. Holness and the JLP on their victory.

"I wish on behalf of the Government and people of Saint Lucia to extend my congratulations and felicitations to Mr. Holness on winning the elections and look forward to welcoming him to the CARICOM family. The bonds between Jamaica and Saint Lucia are long and enduring, and the Government of Saint Lucia looks forward to continuing a strong and cordial relationship with Jamaica on matters related to Caribbean Integration and the common agenda of our shared community of nations," said Dr. Anthony.

The Prime Minister  further expressed his thanks to Hon. Portia Simpson-Miller for the guidance provided to Jamaica and CARICOM during her tenure in office. According to the Prime Minister, even in defeat, Simpson-Miller demonstrated leadership by offering congratulations to the JLP and committing to holding the Government of the JLP accountable to the people.

"The people of Jamaica have spoken. This is good for democracy. It is also good that the few incidents which occurred did not discourage the people of Jamaica from voting for the government of their choice. Now is the time to bring the country together in peace and harmony. This is even more necessary as the road ahead will not be easy for the new Government since Jamaica faces continuing adjustments under its IMF Programme.

“We also join the people of Jamaica in thanking outgoing Prime Minister, Portia Simpson-Miller, for her diligent service these past five years, and wish her and the PNP all the best, going forward," Dr. Anthony added.

Now aged 43, Mr. Holness is Jamaica's ninth Prime Minister.