The PNP Patriots, the young professional affiliate of the People’s National Party (PNP), today responded to recent criticism from the Generation 2000 (G2K) network, the young professional arm of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), regarding Opposition Leader Mark Golding’s letter to Prime Minister Andrew Holness on advancing Jamaica’s constitutional reform agenda.

The Patriots view the G2K’s remarks as a mischaracterisation that prioritises partisan posturing over the substantive partnership required for this historic undertaking. In his October 3 letter, Golding welcomed the Prime Minister’s expressed desire for collaboration, emphasising that true progress demands a leader-to-leader dialogue to elevate the process beyond bureaucratic channels.

“This approach aligns with Jamaica’s proud democratic tradition, where foundational constitutional milestones were forged through direct engagement by party leaders. The current Constitution is largely the product of tireless work done directly by National Hero Norman Manley and Sir Alexander Bustamante, who led their respective teams in bipartisan efforts during the 1940s and 1950s to secure independence and establish our framework of governance,” the Patriots said.

“Similarly, in the 1990s, PJ Patterson and Edward Seaga demonstrated that visible leadership from both the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader is essential for reforms of this magnitude. Golding’s call is not one of form over substance, but a deliberate elevation of discussions to ensure the required unity of purpose and action. As the letter states, ‘this approach also accords with Jamaica’s democratic tradition’, underscoring the need for the Government to match words with deeds by initiating the partnership at the highest level, rather than delegating to the Minister of Justice as a first step,” the Patriots said.

Patriots President Rev Dr Paul Blake, stated: “The truth is, G2K’s statement reeks of insecurity, the kind that comes from realising that Mark Golding’s intellect and composure expose the intellectual anaemia of their own leadership bench. Patriots will not entertain lectures from those who mistake loudness for leadership and partisanship for patriotism.”

Echoing this sentiment, PNP Patriots General Secretary Davalle Grant added: “Criticism from G2K risks undermining the very bipartisanship they claim to support. Leader Golding’s invitation is a clear signal of good faith, building on precedents set by past administrations. This critical issue demands the PM and OL’s personal involvement, not sideline consultations. The Patriots remain committed to reform that transcends party lines, but only through authentic engagement will we achieve the republic Jamaica deserves.” The PNP Patriots urge the JLP and G2K to reconsider their position and accept the invitation for leader-level talks, as proposed by Golding. This is not about optics; it is about delivering lasting change for all Jamaicans, especially the youth who will inherit this legacy.