Opposition Leader Mark Golding has called for progressive policies that will support and nurture the nation’s foundational values of freedom, justice and unity.

This as Jamaica seeks to uplift its people and strengthen its economy.

Addressing the nation in his Independence Day message today, Mr. Golding notes that as Jamaica strives to achieve its destiny of greatness, its people should not accept the current gaps in key areas of development.

He points to the annual rate of economic growth, the challenges of the education, water and health sectors, inefficiencies in public service delivery, the undermining of critical institutions of transparent and accountable governance, and brain drain as some areas that could threaten true independence.

Mr. Golding notes that addressing these pressing challenges will require honest and diligent leadership.

Jamaica is celebrating 63 years of independence today under the theme, “Be Proud, Be Bold in the Black, Green and Gold.”