THE HISTORIC inauguration ceremony of Portia Simpson Miller, Prime Minister of Jamaica, at King's House yesterday was more than a "defining moment" in the nation's history. The country's first female Prime Minister took her oath of office and presented her inaugural address amid outpourings of goodwill from the regional and international community.
In attendance were several regional leaders, including Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves; Prime Minister of Barbados, Owen Arthur, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Patrick Manning; Chief Minister of Turks and Caicos island, Michael Misick, Nation of Islam leader, Minister Louis Farrakhan, a special delegation from the U.S. Congress, among other dignitaries. The sentiments expressed were wishes of goodwill amid great expectations.
MINISTER LOUIS FARRAKHAN
FARRAKHAN
"It is a historic day for Jamaica, swearing in its seventh Prime Minister and first female Prime Minister. I pray God will bless her that she will be successful. She will need all your prayers and support, as she tries to unite the country and to make Jamaica the pearl of the Caribbean. I am very happy and blessed to be sharing this moment with her and with all of Jamaica."
PRIME MINISTER OF ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, RALPH GONSALVES
GONSALVES
"It was a magnificent ceremony and a great presentation by the new Prime Minister. It was Portia at her best, calling for healing for the nation. I congratulate her and wish her our fullest support and all the best."
SUSAN TAYLOR, EDITOR OF ESSENCE MAGAZINE
TAYLOR
"My heart is so full and my hopes are high. I want to thank the new Prime Minister for allowing us to come and to share in her dream. I came with my entire family to celebrate with her. A new world is emerging with women to give birth to it."
