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- Opposition Leader Mark Golding renewed his call for Bob Marley and Louise Bennett-Coverley (Miss Lou) to be named National Heroes.
- Golding made the appeal in his National Heroes Day message on Monday.
- He cited Marley's role in promoting resistance to oppression and unity, and Bennett-Coverley's work preserving Jamaican language and cultural identity.
- Golding urged Jamaicans to protect national institutions from corruption and prioritise the national interest over political interests.
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Leader Mark Golding has renewed his call for reggae icon Bob Marley and cultural icon Louise Bennett-Coverley to be formally recognised as National Heroes, making the appeal in his National Heroes Day message on Monday.
Golding cited Marley's influence in promoting resistance to oppression and unity through his music, and Bennett-Coverley's contribution to preserving Jamaican language and cultural identity, as grounds for the honour. Bennett-Coverley, widely known as Miss Lou, is celebrated for her work in Jamaican patois and folk culture.
The Opposition Leader also used the occasion to urge Jamaicans to protect national institutions from corruption and to build a society where essential services and opportunities are available to all. He described a Jamaica where "quality education, decent employment, affordable housing, accessible quality health care and public safety are realities for all rather than aspirations that are only available to a fortunate few."
Golding stressed that political differences should not overshadow the country's shared responsibilities, insisting that "the national interest must always be given priority over political interests."
He encouraged Jamaicans to honour their heroes through acts of service, fairness, integrity and respect, while remaining confident in the country's potential. He also paid tribute to Jamaica's seven National Heroes, highlighting their contributions to freedom, justice, workers' rights and political independence, and said their legacy should inspire Jamaicans to confront present-day challenges and work towards a better future.
The call to elevate Marley and Bennett-Coverley to National Hero status is not new; Golding has previously advocated for their recognition. The seven current National Heroes are Sir Alexander Bustamante, Norman Manley, Marcus Garvey, Paul Bogle, George William Gordon, Sam Sharpe and Nanny of the Maroons.