People's Political Party (Jamaica) Explained

The People's Political Party (PPP) was Jamaica's first modern political party. It was formed in 1929 by Marcus Garvey.^[1]

The PPP set out a 14 point manifesto—the first of its kind in the island's electoral history. The points contained in the PPP's manifesto were far-reaching and perceptive as illustrated by a few of them, such as:

• An eight-hour work day
• A minimum wage
• A larger share of self-government
• Protection for native industries
• A legal aid department for the poor
• Technical schools for each parish
• Land reform
• Libraries and civic improvement for parish capitals
• City status for Montego Bay and Port Antonio
• A National Park at the Kingston Race Course

The PPP contested the 1962 elections, receiving 0.9% of the vote and failing to win a seat.^[2] The party did not contest any further elections.^[3]

In December 2012, lawyer Michael "Ras Miguel" Lorne was the party leader.^[4]

Notes and References

1. News: Hero (1887-1940) . . 31 July 2006 . 23 . 2860 . Kingston . NewspaperArchive.
2. [Dieter Nohlen|Nohlen, Dieter]
3. Nohlen, p. 432.
4. News: Grant . Eddie . ‘Unsung Heroes’ recognised . Kingston Weekly Gleaner . 13 December 2012 . 2071 . 28 . Kingston . NewspaperArchive.