Prime Minister Condemns Violence in Emancipation Speech

In the annual speech done on Emancipation Day, Prime Minister Andrew Holness condemns violence and says for a country to be truly free it has to be rid of violence.

The Prime Minister in his address denounces domestic violence among other forms of violence saying it is of epidemic proportion. He says the fight the forefathers fought against slave owners for freedom against dehumanizing conditions should not be the weapon now used against one Jamaican to the other.

Mr. Holness says there is no freedom where violence exists and says it has to be the effort of a nation to reject violence and use other forms of conflict resolution skills to mediate problems.

Currently, the Bill of Domestic Violence is being reviewed to help combat the violence. This is expected to provide remedies for domestic violence, for the protection of the victim through speedy and effective relief, and for matters connected therewith and incidental thereto

Also, in an address to the Nation, opposition leader Mark Golding reminded Jamaicans of the days of slavery and the heroes that have fought for the country’s freedom.

“There is little acknowledgment of the entitlement to personal space, for many uninvited touching and hitting is accepted as normal in our society. The correction

Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora are celebrating Emancipation 2021 under restrictions prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.