Minor opposition parties form alliance ahead of Jamaica’s general election

Two of Jamaica’s minor opposition parties, the Jamaica First Movement (JFM) and the Jamaica Progressive Party (JPP), have announced a political alliance to contest the Sept. 3 general election, describing the move as “historic.”

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JFM was launched recently by well-known clergyman Reverend Al Miller. He promised that the party would only serve for a single five-year term if successful in forming a government. JPP, on the other hand, officially registered as a political party in 2020. The JPP, based in Kingston, is led by Gilbert Alexander Edwards.

In a joint statement on Wednesday, the groups said the collaboration aims to “break decades of political impasse and voter apathy.” Under the agreement, the JPP will operate within JFM’s “Special Purpose Vehicle” for what leaders say will be a single five-year term dedicated to promoting national unity.

“This is not about creating another party for retaining power,” said Rev. Al Miller, JFM chairman. “This is about patriots from all walks of life putting their differences aside for five years to do one job: repair the foundation of this nation and set new paradigms for our children.”

JPP President Edwards called the alliance “a necessary act of national service,” saying it combines JFM’s vision for a “new Jamaica” with JPP’s political infrastructure to contest all constituencies.

“This alliance enables the team to field candidates across the island, ensuring that every Jamaican has the opportunity to vote for bold transformation,” Edwards said, urging “patriotic Jamaicans” to join the effort.

The groups are inviting supporters to visit www.jamaica1st.org to sign an official covenant and join the movement.