After Rihanna, Usain Bolt and Reggae Legend Bob Marley Could Be Named ‘National Heroes’

Usain Bolt ruled the tracks in his heyday and was second to none for the most part of an explosive career. The Jamaican snagged a total of eight Olympic gold medals throughout his run and redefined speed for the track world. 

Despite receiving many honors, the biggest seems yet to come for Bolt- ‘National Hero’. Following a recent meeting in the Jamaican Parliament, ‘The World’s Fastest Man’ being named ‘National Hero’ for Jamaica is a possibility. 

Opposition Senator Floyd Morris proposed that Bolt, along with reggae legend Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, and Louise Bennett be named National Heroes in the Upper House meeting. He also wants this motion to be passed before the 60th anniversary of Jamaica’s political independence, which will be on August 6, 2022.

In his notice, Morris described a National Hero as “a citizen of Jamaica who has given most distinguished service to the country…. these citizens have presented Jamaica in a positive light across the world and contributed to the dominance of the country in reggae music, sports and culture, since the country gained political independence in 1962.”

Bob Marley is set to finally receive the prestigious honor

This proposal will undoubtedly have the support of a very driven public, given that Bob Marley is also in question. Pop icon Rihanna was named National Hero for Barbados earlier this year, which has doubled up the demand for Bob Marley to receive the same status given the effect of his works. 

Marley, who pioneered Reggae to the stratosphere, introduced a new way of life to not just Jamaica, but to the world. Being named National Hero of Jamaica sounds only right. However, before that action is taken, there will be investigations into the lives of the individuals by an advisory committee to deem whether they are fit to receive that award. The findings of said investigations will be presented to the Prime minister. 

Usain Bolt carried on the baton of Jamaican pride on the tracks, being the kingpin in an era of dominance in which he broke records to set new ones that are yet to be bested. To this date, no runner has come close to his 100m world record and it may just be like that for a while. 

Read more: Simone Biles vs Usain Bolt- Which Olympian Pulled in the Most Millions from Endorsements?