#BudgetDebate2025: Golding repeats promise to name Marley, Miss Lou national heroes
Opposition Leader Mark Golding has repeated a promise to make King of Reggae and Jamaica’s most famous son, the legendary Bob Marley, a national hero.
He has also committed to making folklorist Louise Bennett Coverley, affectionately called Miss Lou, a national hero.
Golding spoke to the issue on Tuesday as he made his contribution to the 2025/26 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives.
“Last year I committed to conferring the Order of National Hero on the Honourable Robert Nesta ‘Bob’ Marley. This will be a priority action when we form the government, the year in which we celebrate the 80th year of his birth,” said Golding.
“As we cement the spirit of “One Love” in Jamaica, we will also commemorate the significance of “Fi Wi Language” in our expressions and identity. We will also confer the Order of National Hero on the Honourable Louise Bennett Coverley, making her our second female National Heroine,” Golding added.
Jamaicans have long debated making both Marley and Miss Lou national heroes and Golding appears keen on making it happen.
