The party's parliamentary group threw their support behind the 39 year old Holness, who when appointed, will be Jamaica's youngest Prime Minister.
Addressing the press conference, Holness thanked his colleagues who have supported him, God and the people of Jamaica who invest hope and faith in Jamaica's political system.
According to reports the deal was brokered by Dr.Christopher Tufton, who decided to forego his leadership ambitions in the interest of the party unity and the country. The announcement that the party leaders had reached a consensus on selecting Holness was made at a press conference this morning.
However, the decision will have to be ratified by the JLP secretariat and delegates.
Holness accepted the endorsement and thanked his colleagues for putting their personal ambitions aside. He noted that he has been preparing for this day for years, and stated that one of the important themes of his leadership would be unity.
The education minister also said he would lead a government of equity and efficiency.
Continuity was also a major theme of the speech delivered by Holness, as he promised to continue the policies, programmes and anti-corruption stance on which the party was elected in 2007. The party's ratification will pave the way for Holness to become Jamaica’s ninth prime minister.
Prime Minister Bruce Golding has already indicated he will soon step down from that position.
Nominations for leader of the JLP remain open until October 20.
