Oops! This policeman took some of the seriousness out of Bruce Golding's impending Budget speech yesterday, as he lost his hat and almost his balance in downtown Kingston. The cop was part of Golding's cavalry guard. The prime minister was on his way to Parliament for its first day of business for the year. - Norman Grindley/Chief Photographer
There's nothing in the Constitution that says supporters have to turn out for the ceremonial opening of Parliament, but they sure make it enjoyable.
The Jamaica Labour Party candidates positioned to the north of Gordon House (above the intersection of Duke and Charles streets) and the People's National Party supporters to the south (below Beeston Street's intersection) added as much colour and vibrancy to the proceedings as the military personnel and the dignitaries (fresh from the fashion houses with their new outfits).
"Best PM fi di year" and "Best poor man PM" were just two of the many quotes to greet Prime Minister Bruce Golding by the green-clad fanatics. Not to be outdone, their orange counterparts shot back with "Bruce, you too loose" and "Paper government" when the members of the ruling party were strolling into the House. The Opposition's supporters took the honours in the impromptu singing contest that broke out, voicing, "We nuh want no badderation" and, of course, a rousing rendition of their party song.
Even though all members of both major parties were given welcomes worthy of royalty from the rabid fans, Finance Minister Audley Shaw held a special place for the lungs of those present, as the "man a yaad" chants downplayed all other taunts and cheers.
There were some loud hoots for the immaculately clad Lisa Hanna and shouts of approval for the still-popular Phillip Paulwell.
'Dash it pon me without warning'
One supporter, for some reason, also occasionally yelled a current popular phrase, "Dash it pon me without warning."
Not even Governor General Dr Patrick Allen, taking part in his first opening of Parliament as head of state, was immune from the comments.
"(Come) Dung yah so, GG," said one Opposition supporter who wished for an audience as His Excellency inspected the guard of honour.
The dignitaries now inside, the supporters eventually made their way home.
The proceedings inside Parliament over the next few weeks will decide how much these same supporters will have to pay for basic necessities. Then we should hear some talk.
daviot.kelly@gleanerjm.com