Jamaica has just witnessed history: the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), under the leadership of Dr. The Hon. Andrew Holness, has secured an unprecedented third term in government—a feat not previously achieved by the JLP.
This election, for many, felt less like high drama and more like a big adults’ sports day compared to the charged and tense contests of the 1970s and 80s.
Worthy of pause, though, is the upset that has set social media ablaze: the People’s National Party’s Isat Buchanan winning Portland Eastern, unseating Ann-Marie Vaz. By every account from her constituents, Vaz is one of Jamaica’s most action-oriented (earning her the moniker, #ActionAnn) compassionate, and dedicated MPs. Her legacy of service is lauded, not only for what she accomplished, but how she treated the people she served.
Yet, Buchanan’s reputation as a fierce legal advocate, most notably, for dancehall star Vybz Kartel in his Privy Council appeal, cemented him as a champion for justice, drawing support from voters who may have seen in him a fighter for their causes.
Comrades, Constituents, Confidants, and Commanders: Who Do We Really Follow?
This scenario brings me back to a profound message I once heard from a very popular preacher, one that has shaped my understanding of leadership and relationships. On your journey, you’ll encounter four types of people: confidants, constituents, comrades (no pun for the PNP) and, at times, commanders.
Each plays a unique, and sometimes fleeting, role in your story. Confidants are personally for you, standing with you through thick and thin. Constituents are for what you are for; they support your cause, but not necessarily you. Commanders are those who lead, direct, and shape outcomes from their position of authority.
And comrades, they are not for you, nor for what you are for, they are simply against what you are against, driven by the power of shared opposition.
Like Buchanan, whose professional prowess lies in rallying behind what he’s against, comrades galvanise followers not through ongoing loyalty, but through powerful (and often temporary) opposition.
Lesson: Don’t mistake alliance for sustaining support. When the enemy disappears, so do the comrades. Their purpose is real; their presence is fleeting. Oh, the irony of this ‘people group’ name!
Leadership Lessons From Jamaica’s Ballot Box
1. Authenticity Wins Hearts—But Not Always Elections Ann-Marie Vaz’s authenticity, action-orientation, and compassion earned her a level of respect many leaders only dream of. Yet, elections aren’t popularity contests—they’re battles of ideas, energy, and, sometimes, raw public mood. Authenticity may not always win, but it builds enduring respect.
2. Advocacy and Visibility Are Strategic Tools
Isat Buchanan’s high-profile advocacy was more than legal expertise—his ability to champion visible justice battles made him a formidable, relatable choice for voters seeking a fighter rather than just a builder. Leadership sometimes requires championing highly visible causes that unite and mobilise.
3. Understand Your Support Base: Comrades vs. Confidants Know which relationships are grounded in genuine support for you, and which are forged in shared opposition or challenge. Lean into your confidants; respect your comrades for what they contribute, but don’t confuse them with lasting allies.
4. The Game May Change, Adapt! This election played out more like a spirited adult sports day, far removed from the raucous, turbulent contests of previous decades. Great leaders know when to change their playbook to fit the times, mobilising with humility rather than intensity.
5. Own the Trade-Offs of Popular Leadership
Not every battle is won with popularity, nor is every loss a sign of failure. Leaders must learn to accept that sometimes the most deserving do not prevail. What remains is your impact, your heart, and your ever-evolving story.
Podcast Reflection 🎙️
Rewrite Your Story: Human Behaviour as the Key to Leadership and Growth with Carly Pepin
What makes a leader truly impactful?
My #throwback guest Carly Pepin reveals that success is not a destination—it’s a journey of self-awareness, authenticity, and growth. Learn to leverage AI and introspection to break through imposter syndrome, align your life purpose with your business goals, and build lasting impact. If recent events have you reflecting on your journey, this episode will provoke deeper thought and inspire transformation.
Scripture Spotlight ✝️
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” — Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)
Whether you’re on the winning side or learning from a loss, purpose guides the journey.
Science & Perspective: The Changing Dynamics of Modern Elections 🔬
Political scientists note that today’s voters tend to rally more around opposition and momentary causes than unwavering loyalty. Real growth in leadership comes from serving with humility, adapting to shifting public sentiment, and maintaining credibility regardless of outcome.
Fun Fact of the Week 🤔
Did you know?
Historically, Jamaica’s most heated elections saw record turnout, but modern contests, like this “adults’ sports day,” emphasise unity, peace, and friendly rivalry over political pyrotechnics.
Interactive Poll 📊
When you choose a leader, what matters most to you?
Authenticity and compassion
Results and visible action
Advocacy and fighting spirit
Shared opposition to a specific cause
👉 Reply and share: What’s your leadership litmus test?
Resources of the Week 📚
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Get it here: https://amzn.to/3Vy0sZs
Option B by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant
Order here: https://amzn.to/415OyZF
Bulletin Board 📢
📺 The Entrepreneurial You TV Show Season 3 airs Sundays at 8 PM on Flow 1 & Fridays at 10 AM JA time.
🎙️ New podcast episodes drop every Tuesday at 7 AM JA time—catch up at henekawatkisporter.com
🏟️ Leadercast Kingston: October 7, The Summit, Kingston. Early birds save US$20 for cruise!
🚢 LeadHerShip Cruise 2025: November 3-7, 2025
🧭 Boundaries & Brilliance Masterclass for your org: Email heneka@henekawatkisporter.com
📋 Board memberships: PWD Credit Union, eMentoring Africa (Kenya), and Leadercast
Final Thoughts
Leadership is profoundly complex: sometimes you win with authenticity, other times with opposition, but always with service. Don’t let the cheers—or tears—of election night remove your purpose from focus. Remember, the most important battles are for hearts, not just for votes.
Stay humble, serve boldly, and keep adding chapters to your story—whether you’re a champion or a challenger!
With reflection, gratitude, and a decisive step forward,
Heneka Watkis-Porter
Podcast Queen | Leadership Visionary Architect | Coach | Grace to Grow Mentorship Founder
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