Constitutional Reform Town Halls Continue

The series of town halls to engage Jamaicans on matters related to constitutional reform continued on Tuesday (October 1) at the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) in Kingston.

The session, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, enabled students, staff and other stakeholders to gain insights and give their perspectives on the ongoing reform process.

Portfolio Minister and Constitutional Reform Committee (CRC) Co-chair, Hon. Marlene Malahoo Forte, who addressed the session, noted that the constitutional reform process “is really to further the goals of independent Jamaica. Each stage of that journey has been met with mixed results, but the journey continues”.

She reminded persons that a phased approach is being undertaken focused on two primary objectives. The first is to “Jamaicanise” the Constitution by removing it from its imperial roots and incorporating national symbols, emblems and a preamble, and the second goal is to transition Jamaica from a constitutional monarchy to a republic with a Jamaican president.

“We will be abolishing the monarchy as our form of government… and put a Jamaican president for the Republic of Jamaica,” she reiterated.

Minister Malahoo Forte noted that public participation is a critical aspect of the reform process.

She noted that for the changes to be deeply entrenched provisions in the Constitution necessitate a referendum.

As such, she is urging all eligible Jamaicans to ensure that they can vote in the referendum and actively engage in shaping Jamaica’s future.

Minister Malahoo Forte reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that all Jamaicans, particularly young people, have their voices heard during the reform effort.

She commended the CRC youth strategic advisor, Sujae Boswell, for his dedication to engaging with young individuals and incorporating their views into the reform process.

The town halls serve as a forum for open dialogue as Jamaica progresses towards a new era of constitutional reform and national identity. The meetings highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in the reform process.

By actively involving citizens in discussions surrounding constitutional changes, the Government aims to build trust and confidence among the populace.

This approach aligns with the vision for a more participatory democracy where every Jamaican feels empowered to contribute to the nation’s future.