Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged Jamaicans not to be swayed by claims that the country is regressing arguing that Jamaica is experiencing significant improvements under his leadership.

He made the appeal in a recent post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, October 15.

According to Holness, the government has effectively navigated global challenges, such as the pandemic and international conflicts, maintaining stability in the face of rising living costs.

Holness took aim at critics, suggesting that those with “a record of poor performance” are spreading negativity, attempting to create a false narrative of decline. He encouraged Jamaicans to “think for yourself” and to recognise the positive developments in the nation.

Holness highlighted Portmore as a key example of Jamaica’s progress, highlighting several major initiatives.

These include the ongoing construction of road infrastructure along Grange Lane, with 925 million dollars already allocated, and a new entry corridor from Mandela Highway, valued at 2.4 billion dollars. Also, 15,000 new homes are being built in Bernard Lodge, and 3,000 are currently under construction, catering to young professionals.

Portmore, which is on track to become Jamaica’s newest parish, is also set to be transformed into a tech hub.

Plans for a tech park in Naggo Head aim to provide space for digital businesses and entrepreneurs. The Prime Minister envisions Portmore as Jamaica’s “Little Miami,” with the city expected to rival other regional smart cities and become a hub for knowledge services and tech-driven industries.

“Portmore will become the Silicone Valley of Jamaica”, he said.

Holness concluded by doubling down on the importance of local governance in managing Portmore’s growth as the city evolves into the tech capital of the Caribbean.