Three New Senators Take Seat in Upper House

Three new members were sworn into the Upper House on Thursday (February 13).

Senators Dr. Elon Thompson, Marlon Morgan and Delano Seiveright, took the Oath of Allegiance, during a brief sitting of the Senate, which followed the delivery of the Throne Speech to open the 2025/26 Parliamentary Year.

After taking the oath, they were welcomed by President of the Senate, Senator the Hon. Thomas Tavares-Finson, who invited the new members to introduce themselves.
Senator Morgan expressed gratitude at his appointment.

“The Senate, as persons will appreciate, is the review chamber and it is my endeavour, Mr. President, to bring copious degrees of sobriety and perspicacity in examining matters here before us and, of course, ensuring that when all is said and done whatever it is that we attend upon, whatever it is that we engage in inures to the benefit of the people of Jamaica,” Senator Morgan pledged.

Senator Seiveright, in his remarks, emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between members of both political parties.

“The spirit of collaboration with the Government and the Opposition is something that I have always encouraged. I recall my work in cannabis law reform and working across the aisle with academia, entertainment, international partners and so on. I recall my work, of course, in tourism, where there is a lot of collaborative engagement to get things done and… I want to ensure that we continue that,” he said.

Senator Thompson, who is a medical doctor, said that while his expertise lies in health, “I am also keen on imparting other aspects of interest in youth [and] education. I hope we can work together in this honourable house for the benefit of Jamaicans. Something that is very key to me is Jamaica first. I won’t take this opportunity for granted. I know what people expect of me and I will try to uphold that to the best of my ability,” he said.

Senators Thompson, Morgan and Seiveright were recommended for appointment by Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, following the resignations of Senators Matthew Samuda, Delroy Williams and Ransford Braham.

A vacancy remains on the Government’s side following the recent resignation of Don Wehby.