Generation 2000 (G2K) extends warm congratulations to Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Most Honourable Juliet Holness, on her election as Vice-Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

Mrs. Holness was elected during the 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, becoming the first Jamaican woman to hold the position. Her election marks Jamaica’s return to the office since former Speaker, the Honourable Headley Cunningham, served from 1992 to 1993.

G2K President Sashana-Lee Edwards described the election as a significant achievement for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

“This is a proud moment for our country and our region. The significant support Mrs. Holness received from her Commonwealth colleagues reflects confidence in her leadership, ability and commitment to parliamentary service. On behalf of G2K, I congratulate her and wish her every success in this important role,” Edwards said.

Edwards noted that Mrs. Holness’s election, following her tenure as Chair of the CPA Caribbean, Americas and the Atlantic Region, strengthens the Caribbean’s representation within the Association’s leadership.

“Our Caribbean democracies have valuable experience and perspectives to share. Mrs. Holness’s election provides an important opportunity to bring the priorities of our region and small states to the forefront of international parliamentary cooperation,” she added.

The G2K President also highlighted the significance of the achievement for young Jamaicans, particularly women considering public service.

“When a Jamaican woman earns the confidence of parliamentary colleagues across the Commonwealth, it expands the possibilities young people can imagine for themselves. Her achievement is an encouragement to prepare, participate and pursue leadership with purpose,” Edwards said.

Mrs. Holness will serve a one-year term as Vice-Chairperson and will also serve on the CPA Finance Subcommittee, bringing her parliamentary experience and professional background in accounting and finance to its work.

G2K wishes Mrs. Holness a successful tenure as she builds on Jamaica’s contribution to parliamentary democracy and cooperation across the Commonwealth.