United approach on Jamaica’s road to republic

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Jamaica’s transition from a constitutional monarchy to a republic is a historic endeavour. The Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Marlene Malahoo Forte, recently said that the process is now over 50 per cent complete. While this reflects significant progress, discussions between the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP) continue to intensify around some aspects of the proposed amendments.

Opposition Leader Mark Golding, during his Budget Debate on March 18, voiced several concerns about the proposed constitutional changes, adding to the ongoing national debate. Among his main points were his party’s support for the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as Jamaica’s final court of appeal, concerns about the composition of the Senate and the process of selecting the president, as well as disagreement with the phased approach to the reform.

Minister Malahoo Forte has previously stated that Jamaica’s final court of appeal will be addressed in the second phase of the constitutional reform process. She noted that, while there is no consensus on the best option, the CCJ remains one of three possibilities. However, Golding reiterated his call to replace the UK Privy Council with the CCJ, while simultaneously removing the monarchy. Given the ongoing debate over the CCJ and the Privy Council, the government should prioritise educating the public on the benefits and the drawbacks of both options. This will help the public understand the positions of both the Government and Opposition, while also highlighting the option that best serves the nation’s interests.

Further, the opposition leader expressed the view that, when he becomes the prime minister, he does not want such an “awesome power” – yet, this process is similar to how the governor general is currently appointed. In fact, the proposed process involves consultation between both the prime minister and the opposition leader.

Mr Golding further claimed that the bill would “modify the composition of the Senate to remove the Opposition’s ability to stand in the way of oppressive changes”. However, his statement contradicts the bill, which clearly states that any changes require the support of at least two-thirds of all members. This means 16 out of 24 senators must agree. Since the prime minister appoints 15 senators, at least one senator from the Opposition must support a change for it to pass. Golding’s remarks were therefore inaccurate, and misrepresent the bill’s provisions.

While opposition is expected, a transition of this magnitude requires unity. The political back and forth risks overshadowing Jamaica’s future. Clear communication from both sides is crucial to assure the people that this change is for the people, not politics. Becoming a republic represents more than just a shift in our head of state – it is about national pride, self-determination, and ownership of our Constitution.

ANADEEN RICHARDS