Jamaica Marks 102nd Anniversary of Former PM Hugh Shearer’s Birth

KINGSTON, JAMAICA – Jamaica commemorated the 102nd anniversary of the birth of the Most Honourable Hugh Shearer, the nation’s third Prime Minister, with a floral tribute ceremony held in his honour.

Representing Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith laid a wreath in tribute to Shearer’s enduring legacy. The event was made more memorable by the presence of his widow, Professor Denise Eldemire-Shearer, and son, Howard Shearer, alongside Jamaica Labour Party Chairman and other dignitaries.

“It was an honour to represent PM @AndrewHolnessJM,” Johnson Smith stated via X (formerly Twitter), as she reflected on the occasion.

It was an honour to represent PM @AndrewHolnessJM by laying a floral tribute on the 102nd anniversary of the birth of the Most Hon. Hugh Shearer, 3rd PM of The presence of his widow, Prof. Eldermire Shearer, son Howard, Party Chair and other officials made it even more special pic.twitter.com/thi1Vdfb2M

— Hon. Kamina J Smith (@kaminajsmith) May 19, 2025

Shearer, who served as Prime Minister from 1967 to 1972, was also remembered for his remarkable 50 years of public service—holding roles as a Councillor, Senator, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, and President of the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU).

As Prime Minister, Shearer presided over one of the most productive periods in Jamaica’s development, overseeing the construction of 60 new schools and the massive expansion of public school enrolment, which laid the foundation for greater access to education islandwide.

The commemoration served as both a moment of reflection and a renewed call to honour the public servants who have shaped Jamaica’s modern history.

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