A Market Research Services Ltd. (MRSL) survey by pollster Don Anderson has found that growing number of Jamaicans are dissatisfied with the country’s current direction under the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).

The People’s National Party (PNP)-commissioned survey, conducted between April 4 to 12, solicited participation from 1,057 respondents with a sampling error of ±3%.

The results reveal that 47 per cent of the respondents think Jamaica is headed in the wrong direction. The breakdown further showed that 48 per cent of those who think the country is headed in the wrong direction cited high youth unemployment and idleness as their top concerns, despite data from the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) showing a record low unemployment rate (4.2 per cent).

The poll shows that 30 per cent of people are frustrated over a lack of access to basic necessities, 22 per cent are dissatisfied with the lack of more educational opportunities, and 21 per cent are concerned about the high cost of living.

General Secretary of the People’s National Party (PNP), Dr Dayton Campbell, says the issues identified by the poll need to be addressed urgently.

“The results of this survey are a clear call for change, and we are not surprised by the findings that nearly half of the Jamaican populace believes the country is on the wrong path. This sentiment echoes the concerns we’ve been hearing directly from the people during our engagements across communities. It’s clear that many are disheartened with the current administration’s approach to governance—often feeling that the government’s portrayed successes do not reflect their lived realities,” said Campbell.

PNP President Mark Golding says the opposition party, if elected, remains committed to restoring trust in Jamaica’s governance.

“Let me assure every Jamaican that change is on the horizon,” said Golding.

“The People’s National Party is committed to restoring trust and delivering a government that not only listens but acts in the interest of all its citizens. When elected, we will ensure that governance in Jamaica is synonymous with quality service and respect for every citizen. We pledge to provide the quality representation that our people deserve—one that genuinely makes them feel respected and valued,” he continued.