First-Timers, Repeat Attendees Turn Out for Ceremonial Opening of Parliament

The air was thick with anticipation and excitement as first-timers and repeat attendees gathered on Duke Street in Kingston today (February 13), to witness the ceremonial opening of Parliament.

The crowd was a colourful and eclectic mix of people, including children, students, political supporters and ordinary citizens, all united by their interest in the proceedings.

As the procession began, the sound of drums and trumpets took centre stage.

Little boys imitated the march of the military band and watched the Mounted Troops in awe, as they moved with grace and poise.

The energy of the crowd intensified as the nation’s leaders marched from both ends of Duke Street into Gordon House.

Students and staff of Prestige Academy Practical Nursing and Skills were among the gathering.

Principal, Paula Burrell, told JIS News that their presence was a demonstration of civic engagement.

“Social Studies is a part of the curriculum, so we have come down to let the students know what it is like for the opening of Parliament. We try to be here every year because a lot of students don’t know what this is all about, and it’s probably the first time some of them will be getting to see some of these Members of Parliament in person,” she said.

Teacher, Cheveisha Mullings, said she was looking forward to “the march of the bands and the police officers on the horses”.

Student, Shamiere Henry, who attended the event for the first time, was thrilled by the sights and sounds.

“I’m an animal lover, so I would pick the horses,” the 19-year-old said of her favourite part of the proceedings.

Fifty-year-old Albert Taylor, who was attending the ceremonial opening of Parliament for the third time, took along some community members to witness the occasion.

“It inspires me. As a Jamaican, I can reflect on what is being done and then I can get something to take away from that and to really sit with my peers and say, ‘This will be done or this has been achieved’,” he noted.

For Anthony Woodburn, the occasion is one he looks forward to annually.

“I appreciate the regimental thing, the soldiers in their full regalia. That is what I’m really here about and to support the Government in its endeavours.

“ I expect a continuation of the good policies of the Government. They are doing a good job in infrastructure and employment of persons,” he said, noting that his desire is for more Jamaicans to take advantage of the employment and skills training opportunities available.

Inside Gordon House, the Throne Speech was delivered by Custos of Kingston, Hon. Steadman Fuller, deputising for Governor General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen.

The theme for this year is ‘Jamaica’s Next Chapter: Aspiring to Greatness’.