Eli Matalon

Eli Joseph Matalon, OJ (January 9, 1924 – October 31, 1999) was a Jamaican businessman and politician representing the People's National Party (PNP).

[1][4][5] During World War II, Matalon served as a flying officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force.

In February 1973, after the PNP's victory at the polls in the 1972 general election, Matalon was appointed as Senator and Minister of State in the Ministry of Education in the Michael Manley-led administration.

He served in this capacity until he was elevated to the position of Minister of Education, succeeding Sir Florizel Glasspole, who has been appointed Governor General.

Matalon successfully contested the resulting by-election, becoming the first Jamaican of Jewish descent to be elected to the House of Representatives.