Opposition Leader Mark Golding failed to stand for Prime Minister Andrew Holness

Leader of the Opposition People’s National Party, Mark Golding, refused to stand when Prime Minister Andrew Holness was announced at the podium at the Diaspora Conference.

Both took the state at the 10th Biennial Diaspora Conference Opening Ceremony.

The two men, despite their political differences, shared the stage at the conference. Nevertheless, Golding’s refusal to stand for the Prime Minister indicates a clear display of the ongoing political tension. However, some describe it as a lack of political decorum and rude.

Despite this, Prime Minister Andrew Holness acknowledged the Opposition Leader, telling the audience that they share a birth month. With a hint of sarcasm, he referred to Mark Golding as “Markie,” emphasizing that this is all they share.

Holness went on to admit that this exchange reflects their approach to politics.

Golding responded with a awkward smile, slightly amused by the Prime Minister’s gesture.

Member of Parliament, Dr. Michelle Charles, the daughter of former prominent Member of Parliament Pearnel Charles Snr wrote on her social media page, “Some people don’t like to stand when a BLACK man enters a room. They prefer us in CHAINS! That time DONE!”.