The mood of the People's National Party (PNP) supporters last night at their headquarters on Old Hope Road was in stark contrast to 2007 when many hung their heads in disappointment following a narrow loss.

Last night, they had vuzuzelas and shouted atop their voices claiming victory even before the election was declared.

Among the supporters, there was Tamara, who stormed through the gates of the headquarters with her clenched firsts held high. "No more sufferation," she said with glee all over her face. "All a me bills pile up pon me when Labourites inna power and mi know seh Portia a go mek a difference."

As the results flashed across the big screen mounted on the grounds, supporters mockingly declared they were happy to make the JLP a one-term government.

"Me and me neighbour vote out Labour, me an mi neighbour vote for Portia," some of them sang.

In her celebration speech, PNP leader, Portia Simpson-Miller, thanked several persons for their support. "I am humbled by the support of the Jamaican people and I ask you to ensure that you greet JLP supporters with love," she said.

Over at the Jamaica Labour party's Belmont Road headquarters, it was like a graveyard as the party leader, Andrew Holness, conceded defeat some five hours after the polls closed at 5 p.m.

There was despondence and disappointment on the faces of the handful of supporters who braved the early evening signs of defeat to be at the party's headquarters.

Holness, he was a picture of desolation. "The Jamaican people have certain concerns apparently about the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and we will be reflecting on those and do deep searches within ourselves to find out what that is and to correct that," Holness told journalists.

Obviously disappointed, he said he wished the new government well. "I was privileged to have served in a short time. I really did not have much room. I had to make the decision that we made. I feel good that I have executed the duties of prime minister over the short time to the best of my ability and I look forward to another opportunity."

A section of the large crowd at PNP headquarters. - Errol Crosby

Three young women take time from their celebration to pose for the camera. - Errol Crosby

Party leader Andrew Holness addresses the media at the JLP Headquarters. - Ricardo Makyn

Former People's National Party member of parliament, Sharon Hay-Webster, who lost in her bid as a JLP candidate to win her seat, is comforted by Kingston Western candidate Desmond McKenzie. - Gladstone Taylor