Time Come vs. Choose Jamaica (Jamaica Elections 2025)

When Prime Minister Andrew Holness called the general election for September 3, 2025, he did more than set a date — he kicked off a sprint to the finish line between two very different campaign messages. On one side, the People’s National Party (PNP) has been chanting “Time Come” with a sense of urgency. On the other, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) is telling us to “Choose Jamaica”, appealing to a broader vision of national pride.

Now, these aren’t just catchy phrases. In Jamaica, slogans often capture the heartbeat of a campaign. “Time Come” suggests that the PNP believes their moment is now — that after years of being in opposition, change is overdue, and they are the ones to deliver it. It’s a rallying cry to their base, but it also doubles as a challenge to those on the fence: if not now, when?

Meanwhile, “Choose Jamaica” from the JLP is as much about continuity as it is about choice. It plays on the idea that sticking with their leadership is the patriotic decision — the one that keeps Jamaica on its current path of economic growth, infrastructure projects, and stability. The message leans on a positive, aspirational tone, reminding voters of what they believe has been achieved and promising more to come.

Why These Messages Matter

These election slogans in Jamaica are never just words — they are condensed manifestos (although that's another story). But they shape how the average voter feels about the race. For some, “Time Come” resonates because it carries a promise of renewal and opportunity. For others, “Choose Jamaica” feels safer, more grounded, and less risky in uncertain global times.

The interesting thing here is that both slogans speak directly to identity — one to a moment in time, and the other to a sense of belonging. The PNP’s phrase is about timing, the JLP’s about direction. And in a country where loyalty to party colours runs deep, but swing voters can still tip the scales, the emotional pull of these messages could decide the outcome.

Where This Election Could Be Won or Lost

Both parties will be leaning heavily on their slogans to set the tone in the short, intense campaign ahead. Expect the PNP to frame their rallies, ads, and speeches around urgency and inevitability — the idea that Jamaica can’t wait another term for change. On the flip side, the JLP will be reminding voters of the risks of switching course midstream, painting their leadership as the “steady hand” that can keep steering the ship.

For everyday Jamaicans, though, the real question might be: which message lines up with my personal reality? Am I ready for a change in direction, or do I feel we’re on the right track and just need to push further? On September 3, the slogans will fade, but the choice we make will shape the next chapter of our island’s story.

So, JamHeart family — what do you think? Is it really time come, or is it better to choose Jamaica? Drop your thoughts in the comments here — I’m curious to hear where you stand.