Holness Shows Strength, Golding Shows Absence.

 There’s leadership and then there’s presence.Jamaicans know the difference, because we’ve seen it in Andrew Holness.Whether it’s a national celebration, a community outreach, or a symbolic launch, the Prime Minister shows up.

Andrew Holness isn’t afraid to be on the ground. He’s present at national events, official functions, community gatherings, and symbolic ceremonies. He interacts with the people from elders to young children with warmth and sincerity. Whether he’s shaking hands, taking photos, sharing a laugh, or simply listening, he makes his presence felt. He speaks directly to the people, moves through crowds with ease, and lifts spirits wherever he goes. Always present, always leading from the front,the man genuinely loves the people and shows it.

And perhaps the clearest example of that leadership was during the COVID-19 pandemic. When fear gripped the globe and uncertainty was high, Andrew Holness did not shy away,he didn’t disappear behind closed doors or delegate away responsibility. He faced the crisis head-on updating the nation, making the tough calls, showing calm in chaos. He led from the front while many world leaders fumbled,he rose to the occasion when Jamaicans were looking for calm and clarity.That’s not just leadership that’s courage.

Now contrast that with Mark Golding, who has made a habit of sending others to represent him.Whether it’s major national events, official functions, or significant moments in Jamaica’s progress  like the opening of the Morant Bay Urban Centre he’s often nowhere to be seen. To Golding, attendance seems optional just another task to hand off. At this point, hearing “Mr. Golding couldn’t be here today” has become less of an exception and more of a pattern.

One has to wonder, if this is how he operates as Opposition Leader, will he continue that pattern if he becomes Prime Minister? Will the country be run by “representatives” while the actual PM stays out of sight? A leader in name, absentee in practice?

And let’s talk about optics. While Andrew Holness consistently maintains a polished, professional, and prime ministerial appearance, Mark Golding’s public presentation often borders on chaka-chaka. Sloppy appearance, scruffy beard, unkempt hair, he frequently looks unprepared and careless. It’s not just the clothes; it’s the overall lack of effort. Is this really who we want representing Jamaica on the world stage? First impressions matter  and this country deserves to be presented with pride, not untidiness.

Then there’s the question of patriotism. Andrew Holness was born and bred in Spanish Town, raised in a poor but dignified home. He worked his way through hardship, student loans, and a system that wasn’t always fair but he had no other choice but to rise.He came from humble beginnings, just like so many Jamaicans, that’s why he can relate. He knows what real struggle feels like, he speaks the people’s language because he’s lived their life. He chose Jamaica, and Jamaica chose him back.

Mark Golding? He comes from privilege plain and simple. Born with a silver spoon in his mouth and cushioned by comfort, he’s never had to worry about rent, school fees, or whether the light bill could be paid. He didn’t grow up navigating broken systems or learning how to stretch a dollar. His understanding of the Jamaican struggle is academic at best, detached at worst. Yes, he can recite policy and buzzwords  but can he truly connect with the average Jamaican trying to survive day to day? Or is it all just performance?

And let’s not forget,for years, Golding held on to British citizenship. Only when the public demanded it did he suddenly “reflect” on giving it up. We still don’t have public proof that he followed through. One foot firmly planted abroad  and seemingly in no rush to step fully into Jamaican soil.

But here’s what’s worse,on multiple occasions, Mark Golding has stood on public platforms and repeated falsehoods  not accidental missteps, but statements he knows are not true. Why? because he doesn’t think highly of the people he wants to lead. If he respected Jamaicans, he would level with them. He would be honest even when the truth isn’t convenient, instead, he banks on deception. He assumes Jamaicans either won’t know better or won’t care.

Andrew Holness, on the other hand, respects Jamaicans enough to speak the truth even if it doesn’t always serve him politically because real leaders don’t manipulate,they trust the people. That’s what Holness has done time and time again, not because it’s easy  but because it’s right.

Real leadership shows up,it listens, it acts and it never hides.Andrew Holness has proven that he’s in it for the people,all the people. So when the choice comes, choose the man who’s walked the journey with us.