Kingston, Jamaica – Member of Parliament for St. Catherine South Eastern, Robert Miller, passionately defended Prime Minister Andrew Holness during the 2024/25 State of the Constituency Debate held on Tuesday in the House of Representatives. Miller, who has been a close friend of Holness since childhood, took the opportunity to address recent criticism aimed at the prime minister following revelations from the Integrity Commission regarding an investigation into illicit enrichment.
Miller devoted much of his speech to countering what he described as unfair attacks on Holness, particularly from those he perceives as envious of the prime minister’s achievements. “There are elements in Jamaican society, including some aligned with the Opposition, who cannot accept that a boy from humble beginnings in Spanish Town could rise to one of the highest offices in the land,” said Miller.
Miller emphasized that Holness’ journey from modest roots—growing up in a board house in St. Catherine—to becoming the prime minister is a source of pride, not something to be discredited. “Some classist individuals will never accept Andrew Holness as a leader simply because he did not come from wealth or privilege. They will continue to try to undermine his success and tarnish his character, even when there’s no foundation for their accusations,” he added.
As a first-term MP, Miller expressed his personal connection to the prime minister’s struggles, stating that he has witnessed firsthand the effort Holness has put into improving not only his own life but the lives of all Jamaicans. “I take personal offence when people attack our prime minister because I know the hard work and dedication he has invested in overcoming the challenges of his upbringing,” Miller said.
He recounted their shared history, noting that they both attended Spanish Town Primary and were members of the same church, the Spanish Town Seventh-day Adventist Church. Miller fondly recalled visiting Holness’ childhood home, discussing their aspirations to rise above poverty and contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s development.
“The passion and drive I saw in Andrew back then have only grown stronger over the years. His commitment to transforming this country and lifting Jamaicans from poverty to prosperity is genuine, and I’m proud of what he’s accomplished,” said Miller.
Miller also made it clear that any attempts to discredit Holness would fail. Describing the prime minister as a man of integrity and vision, Miller stated, “Andrew Holness has worked tirelessly, both as a businessman and as Jamaica’s leader, to improve the lives of Jamaicans. He has led with distinction for the past eight years, despite significant global challenges like the pandemic and the ongoing war in Europe.”
Highlighting the achievements of Holness’ administration, Miller pointed to several key accomplishments, including record-low unemployment rates, poverty reduction, multiple cuts to income taxes, the doubling of the minimum wage, and increased support for vulnerable Jamaicans through programs like PATH (Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education).
In his closing remarks, Miller urged Jamaicans to recognize these accomplishments and consider them when the time comes to vote. “The leadership of Andrew Holness has delivered real progress for Jamaica. When the time comes, the Jamaican people should ensure that the continuity of this leadership is preserved,” Miller concluded, making a clear case for a third term for the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) under Holness’ guidance.
