Leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Andrew Holness, during his victory speech at the JLP headquarters on Belmont Road, Wednesday night, declared that Jamaica’s democracy remains strong, even as his party secured a historic third consecutive term in office.

“Our democracy by this election is proven to be intact,” Holness told jubilant supporters, who waved flags and cheered as he addressed the nation.

He pushed back against critics who argued that another JLP term would undermine democratic principles. “There are those who are trying to seed a view that the mere fact of a third term is a threat to democracy,” he said. “There are those who are trying to carry the idea that regardless of how well a government performs and merits to be reelected, it shouldn’t happen because somehow that is a threat to democracy.

“Well, today has dispelled that because we went through the toughest battle in any democratic society in the region to stand here and say we will be the government for the third time,” Holness continued.

He outlined that the JLP contested the election with the highest level of decency and morality, and revealed that despite concerns about voter participation, “The people came out. We do have our concerns about the turnout. But the people who voted, the majority spoke and chose Jamaica.

Holness stressed his administration’s ongoing commitment to governance rooted in respect for democratic principles. “So I am satisfied that our democracy is strong. But I wish to assure all Jamaicans who participated in the elections or who did not participate in the election that my government will continue to be respectful of, uphold and advance democratic institutions and protect the democracy of this country.”

In quoting a Bible verse, Holness said, “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” He also spoke of resilience and perseverance in leadership. “Jamaica is in a special place today. It is an opportunity. For me, it was also a personal challenge. And I would just like to say, when you face challenges and you look for the opportunities, rise to the occasion. Look at yourself. They know you are strong. No one can stop you.”