The Prime Ministers of Jamaica

Do you know your island political history?

can you name at least 5 of the 10 Prime Ministers the island has had since its independence? 

1Sir Alexander Bustamante (1962-1967)

The country's first prime minister was Sir Alexander Bustamante. The country's largest city, Kingston, had grown significantly under his watch, and he regularly toured rural areas to initiate development projects. He was also instrumental in securing foreign investments to boost the country's economy.

2Sir Donald Sangster (1967-1967)

Sir Donald Sangster served as prime minister for only seventy days before his death. However, he had already started to introduce several policies aimed at boosting the country's economy. One of them was the expansion of the country's tourist industry, a sector that continues to play a crucial role in the country's economy to date.

3Hugh Shearer (1967-1972)

Hugh Shearer was Jamaica's third prime minister, serving from 1967 to 1972. During his tenure, the country signed several trade agreements, expanded the tourism industry, and built new government offices and public transportation systems.

4Michael Manley (1972-1980)

Michael Manley became Jamaica's fourth prime minister in 1972, leading the country for eight years until his defeat against Edward Seaga in 1980. During his time in office, the country implemented radical reforms aimed at reducing inequality and improving social services. The policies included free education, housing, and healthcare for all citizens.

5Edward Seaga (1980-1989)

Edward Seaga was Jamaica's fifth prime minister, serving from 1980 to 1989. His government introduced several policies aimed at promoting national unity and reducing the country's debt. His government also undertook several infrastructure projects, including the construction of highways and new airports.

6Michael Manley (1989-1992)

Michael Manley returned to power in 1989, serving a second time as prime minister until 1992. This time around, his government implemented policies to liberalize the economy, promote foreign investment and reduce bureaucracy.

7Percival J. Patterson (1992-2006)

Percival J. Patterson became Jamaica's seventh prime minister in 1992, serving for fourteen years until 2006. During his tenure, the country enjoyed high economic growth rates due to policies encouraging foreign investment and tourism development. He also introduced a range of social programs to improve the country's education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

8Portia Simpson Miller (2006-2007) & (2012-2016)

Portia Simpson Miller became Jamaica's first female prime minister in 2006, serving for a year. She returned to power in 2012 and served another four years. During her tenure, she invested heavily in renewable energy, aimed at reducing the country's dependence on oil.

9Orette Bruce Golding (2007-2011)

10 Andrew Holness (2011-2012) & (2016-present)

Andrew Holness became Jamaica's ninth prime minister in 2011 and served for just over a year. He returned to power in 2016 and has been Jamaica's leader ever since. During his time in office, he has focused on reducing crime, creating jobs for young people, and strengthening the country's infrastructure.