Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced the creation of a new national honour, the Order of National Icon, to recognize the contributions of Jamaican poet Louise Bennett Coverly, affectionately known as “Miss Lou,” and reggae icon Bob Marley.

The announcement was made during his Heroes Day address on October 21. He said the government has completed its preliminary work and will be moving forward with the legal process to introduce the new national honour.

“This will be a most well-deserved and long-overdue recognition of their legendary contributions to Jamaican culture and music. Both Miss Lou and Bob Marley stand as towering figures in the preservation and global elevation of Jamaica’s cultural heritage. Miss Lou’s work in promoting Jamaican patois and folk traditions has cemented her as a pioneer of our national identity, while Bob Marley’s music transcended borders, making him an international ambassador of reggae, a symbol of resistance to oppression, and a beacon of unity and love. Their impact on the world stage is immeasurable, and this recognition honours not only their individual legacies but also the indomitable spirit of Jamaica,” Holness said.

He said his administration is crafting a Jamaica that honours the legacy of the country’s heroes while building a future of opportunity and equity for all Jamaicans.

“As we honour our heroes, we are reminded that their mission continues. It is now our responsibility to carry their legacy forward by building a peaceful, productive, and prosperous Jamaica where every citizen thrives with pride and dignity. Let us continue to shape the future they envisioned,” Holness added.

However, opposition leader Mark Golding reiterated his call for Marley to be declared a national hero, citing his significant global influence and the enduring message of love and unity in his music.

“This is why I continue to call for Robert Nesta Marley, who more than ever has made our music an inspirational force for liberation, justice, and equality for all the people of the world to be recognised as the national hero he is. His greatest is embraced in all corners of the earth. He gave us the enduring power of one love, which is drawn on by the very theme of National Heroes Day 2024. Time has come for his status as a hero to be formalised here at home,” Golding said during his Heroes Day message to the nation.