AFTER four decades of dedication to public service — spanning roles as councillor, Member of Parliament, and Government minister — Daryl Vaz was left awestruck and honoured on being named a 2026 recipient of the Order of Jamaica (OJ).

Serving currently as the minister of energy, telecommunications and transport, Vaz shared that being appointed to the rank of OJ left him overcome by gratitude to those who helped him along his political journey.

“I’m absolutely, truly humbled and appreciative. The news of me being awarded the Order of Jamaica has been overwhelming. I want to thank first of all my family who have stood by me through all these years of public service. My constituents who have voted for me in five consecutive elections,” Vaz told the Jamaica Observer.