Buchanan warns against interference, defends Ja’s democracy and Maroon freedom
Published:Thursday | January 8, 2026 | 12:08 AM
WESTERN BUREAU:
Isat Buchanan, Opposition member of parliament for Portland Eastern, has issued a forceful defence of Jamaica’s democracy, warning that no external force should interfere in the will of the Jamaican people, while underscoring the country’s constitutional protections, human-rights legacy, and the historic freedom secured by the Maroons.
Buchanan said that while political rivalry is natural in any democracy, respect for electoral outcomes and national leadership must never be compromised. He was speaking at the 288th Maroon Treaty celebrations in Accompong, St Elizabeth on Tuesday,
“Politics is nice. Politics is a time when your side don’t like the other side. But the beauty of democracy is respecting its outcome and respecting its leaders,” Buchanan said. “No matter how small our country is, the same respect given to the most powerful leader in this country (Jamaica) must also be given to the leaders of my country (Accompong).”
Grounding his argument in international law, Buchanan, an attorney-at-law, invoked the principles of the United Nations, stressing the equality of nations and the sanctity of sovereignty.
“I am relying on the United Nations principle that every nation is equal. No nation should ever intervene in our democracy, especially after the people have spoken. That decision must be respected,” he said.
Buchanan cautioned against fear, suppression, and intimidation in public discourse, noting that Jamaica’s Constitution ranks among the strongest guarantors of freedom of expression in the democratic world.
“There must not be fear. There must not be nervousness. There must not be suppression, and there must not be punishment when people speak out about the freedom of our brothers and sisters,” he declared.
Linking modern democratic rights to Jamaica’s Maroon heritage, Buchanan highlighted the significance of the 18th-century peace treaties, particularly those associated with Accompong and the wider Maroon struggle for autonomy.
“If you understand the significance of the 1738 and 1739 treaties, then you understand the importance of freedom, independence, and recognising the indigenous people of Jamaica,” he said.
He also pointed to the contemporary leadership of Accompong, urging national respect for ongoing efforts to preserve Maroon identity and self-determination.
“We must understand and respect the work being done now for Accompong,” said Buchanan, referencing Richard Currie, chief of the Accompong Maroons.
He used the opportunity to appeal to all Jamaicans to treat freedom as sacred.
“Pray for the protection of your freedom – your thoughts, your actions, your speech. Respect yourself and know that Jamaica is a great and powerful country. Human rights, fully lived and protected in our lifetime, will be what gives meaning long after we are gone.”