President of the People’s National Party (PNP), Mark Golding, has officially been sworn in as Opposition Leader.

Golding, who arrived at Kings House just before noon today (November 10), was sworn in by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen.

The 55-year-old St Andrew South member of parliament was joined by his family as well as prominent PNP members including Peter Bunting, Patricia Duncan-Sutherland, Dr Dayton Campbell and Ian Hayles.

Lisa Hanna, who Golding narrowly beat to become the sixth PNP president on Saturday, was absent for the swearing-in ceremony, citing illness.

In a statement, Sir Patrick said he wished Golding well in his new role.

“It is my duty and pleasure to present Mr Mark Golding with the Instrument appointing him as Leader of the Opposition in the Parliament of Jamaica. I congratulate him and wish him well in his undertaking,” Sir Patrick wrote via his official Facebook page.

“The Opposition Leader has a unique opportunity to demonstrate that the national interest is represented not only through responsible, reasonable and defensible criticism but also through statesmanlike conduct and tone in handling the nation’s business,” he added.