Opposition Leader Mark Golding appointed Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Western Lothan Cousins as Opposition spokesperson on land and works on Friday [1].
This appointment shifts the leadership of the land and works portfolio within the opposition, ensuring continued oversight of critical infrastructure and land management issues in Jamaica. The transition allows the opposition to maintain a focused critique of government policies in these sectors.
Golding said the appointment occurred July 10, 2026 [1]. The move follows a decision made by Richard Azan, who serves as the Member of Parliament for Clarendon North Western [1].
Cousins now assumes the responsibility of challenging the government's performance regarding public works and land administration. As the representative for Clarendon South Western, Cousins brings a regional perspective to a role that oversees national development and land use [1].
The reshuffle in spokesperson roles is a standard procedure for the opposition to align parliamentary expertise with specific government ministries. By appointing Cousins, Golding said he aims to stabilize the opposition's voice on land and works matters following Azan's departure from the role [1].
Details regarding the specific nature of Richard Azan's decision were not provided in the announcement [1]. However, the appointment of Cousins ensures that the portfolio does not remain vacant during the current legislative session [1].
“Mark Golding has appointed Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Western Lothan Cousins as Opposition spokesperson on land and works.”
This appointment represents a strategic realignment within the Jamaican opposition. By replacing Richard Azan with Lothan Cousins, Mark Golding is ensuring that the land and works portfolio remains active. This allows the opposition to continue providing a check on government infrastructure projects and land management, which are often central points of contention in national politics.
