Jamaica – PM Holness Announces Establishment of Ministry of Defence

2026-02-24 - 12:05

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has confirmed the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Defence, a strategic restructuring aimed at strengthening Jamaica’s disaster preparedness framework while enhancing high-level coordination of national defence operations. The newly established ministry will operate from within the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM). In a statement shared via social media on Monday, Holness explained that although the prime minister traditionally assumes responsibility as minister of defence — noting that this arrangement “doesn’t have to be” — administrative and operational oversight had historically been managed under the Ministry of National Security and Peace. The reorganization formally separates defence functions from that portfolio to allow for more focused governance. According to the prime minister, the decision followed lessons learned after Hurricane Melissa, which impacted Jamaica in October 2025. The restructuring, including the reassignment of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) to the OPM, was designed to enable what he described as “seamless management” of both disaster response and defence operations. The relocation of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management to the OPM generated some public criticism; however, Holness maintained that closer institutional alignment was necessary. “Both institutions are now coordinated in lockstep to ensure that we are able to deliver the services required both for relief,” Holness said in a video accompanying his post on X. He further emphasized the JDF’s consistent role throughout national emergencies, stating, “Throughout every phase, the JDF has been present, supporting communities, protecting citizens, and ensuring continuity of government.” The prime minister indicated that Jamaica has now transitioned beyond the emergency relief phase following Hurricane Melissa, with recovery efforts nearing completion and national attention shifting toward reconstruction and long-term resilience. Looking ahead, Holness outlined government plans in the upcoming budget cycle to expand the JDF’s maritime surveillance and airlift capabilities. He described these investments as “critical... that enable us to provide the services that the country would need in the event of a disaster or just ensuring general domain awareness and security for all people.” As part of the administrative transition, Dr. Rocky Meade — Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister and former head of the army — will also assume responsibilities as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Defence, ensuring continuity of leadership during the implementation phase.