KINGSTON, Jamaica – The political landscape of Jamaica is set for a pivotal moment as Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader Mark Golding prepare to engage in a highly anticipated leadership debate. The event, scheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 9:00 PM, marks the culmination of the Jamaica Debates Commission’s (JDC) 2025 General Election Debates series and is expected to be a critical juncture for both parties as they vie for the nation’s mandate.
The Stakes: A Nation Watching Closely
This high-stakes encounter will provide a national platform for the leaders of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP) to present their visions, policies, and leadership credentials directly to the electorate. With the general election date set for September 3, the debate is poised to influence voter sentiment and potentially shape the outcome of the contest, which polling suggests is extremely close. Prime Minister Holness is seeking a third consecutive term for the JLP, while Opposition Leader Golding aims to lead the PNP back into government after nearly a decade in opposition.
Key Issues on the Table
The Jamaica Debates Commission, along with its media partners, has curated a comprehensive agenda for the 90-minute debate. Topics slated for discussion are central to the daily lives and future aspirations of Jamaicans. These include crime and its multifaceted impact, the persistent challenge of corruption, strategies for public sector compensation and wage negotiations, the pressing need for housing solutions, development of national infrastructure, and the significant undertaking of constitutional reform. Beyond these core areas, the leaders are also expected to address their respective party’s manifesto promises, economic strategies, and plans for national development.
Personal and Political Scrutiny
The debate is also anticipated to delve into more pointed areas of political and personal scrutiny. Prime Minister Holness faces questions regarding his statutory declarations, a matter that has been a point of contention for nearly a year. Conversely, Opposition Leader Golding has navigated persistent queries about his background, heritage, and allegiance, alongside his party’s tax proposals, particularly the plan to increase the income tax threshold to $3.5 million. Both leaders will be under pressure to justify their financial plans, with independent economists suggesting that the cost projections for both parties’ proposals could be significantly higher than initially stated.
The Format and Public Engagement
This leadership debate is the third in a series organized by the JDC, which also featured team debates on social issues and the economy in the preceding days. For the leaders’ debate, the format will feature questions from a panel of experienced journalists, including Dionne Jackson-Miller of the RJR-Gleaner Communications Group and Giovanni Dennis of CVM Television. The discussion will be moderated by Archibald Gordon of TVJ. In a move to enhance public participation, the JDC is actively encouraging citizens to submit their questions via direct messages on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to “Jamaica Debates.” These submissions will be reviewed, selected, and posed during the debate, ensuring a direct line of inquiry from the populace to the nation’s leaders. The commission has also confirmed the provision of two sign language interpreters to ensure accessibility for the deaf community.
Building Trust and Momentum
Both Holness and Golding have expressed confidence in their party’s prospects following their nominations for the general election. Holness, a Member of Parliament for nearly 27 years, believes the JLP is poised for a third consecutive term, citing his administration’s record of achievements. Golding, meanwhile, points to the PNP’s manifesto and proposed policies as indicators of growing momentum for his party, suggesting that change is needed in Jamaica. Recent polls indicate a tight race, with favourability ratings for both leaders closely matched, underscoring the significance of this final debate in galvanizing support and clarifying their respective platforms. The Jamaica Debates Commission has emphasized its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent process, thanking all stakeholders for their cooperation amidst public discussions regarding debate arrangements.
As Jamaica stands at a critical juncture, this leadership debate represents a vital opportunity for voters to assess the men who aspire to lead the nation, making it a must-watch event for anyone invested in the future of Jamaica.