The church will be featured more prominently in this upcoming election, as two of the political organisations hoping to be given a nod of approval by Jamaicans are headed by Christians.
Jamaica’s fourth registered political party, the Jamaica Progressive Party (JPP), is chaired by prominent pastor Bishop Calvert Everton Thomas. The party’s president, Gilbert Edwards, has maintained a low profile, but the party has put forward a manifesto outlining plans to transform the country. Based on data provided by the EOJ, the party will have 47 candidates in the upcoming election.
“There is no scriptural basis for the belief that Christians should avoid politics because it is seen as “dirty,” Bishop Thomas stated in the party’s manifesto.
“In fact, the Bible shows us that God raises up righteous leaders to guide His people.
When we build our nation on the principles outlined in Scripture, we create the foundation for lasting success and meaningful progress. Leadership rooted in righteousness brings peace, joy, and prosperity. As Proverbs 29:2 reminds us, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.” Jamaica is ready for that kind of leadership that serves with integrity, governs with wisdom, and leads with the fear of God,” he said.
Edwards, a medical technologist, has described himself as “a man of deep faith, blessed with resources and a vision for national transformation.”
“I felt called to step forward, not out of ambition, but out of conviction. I could no longer remain on the sidelines while so many of our people long for real, lasting change. The call on my life is guided by the timeless principle, “To whom much is given, much is required,” he said.
The JPP recently forged an alliance with the Jamaica First Movement (JFM), which was launched by Rev. Al Miller.The JFM is a new political vehicle advocating for a one-term Government of National Unity.
“We cannot continue on the politically divisive path we have trod,” Rev. Miller had stated in a press release following the launch of the movement.
“This is a time for bold, radical leadership to do what is necessary to bring transformation in the shortest time,” Miller emphasised. He believes there is a need to defeat corruption, division, and injustice.