Government to Begin Process of Detachment from Monarchy

As the country celebrates its 50th year of Independence, the government intends to begin the process of removing all ties with the British monarchy, thereby becoming a truly independent nation.

This was stated by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, during her swearing-in ceremony, today (January 5), at King’s House.

"This 50th Anniversary year will be a time for reflection on the lessons of the past; and, as we celebrate our achievements as an independent nation, we now need to complete the circle of independence. In this regard, we will initiate the process for our detachment from the Monarchy to become a Republic, with our own indigenous President, as Head of State," Mrs. Simpson Miller said.

Currently, under the Jamaican Constitution,the country’s Head of State is Queen Elizabeth II. The Prime Minister is formally appointed into office by the Governor-General of Jamaica, who represents the Queen.

In the meantime, the Prime Minister called for the nation to work together as "we embark upon a new phase of our Jamaican journey."

"I believe that today marks a critical turning point in our journey. You must believe this with me and you must play your part in this process of transformation," she implored.

Mrs. Simpson Miller added that the nation requires the strength, the creativity, the innovation and the steely courage of every Jamaican man, woman, youth and child to place the country on a path to prosperity.

"Let us form a strong bond of patriotic unity and let us move forward together on this journey into our collective future," the Prime Minister urged.

Mrs. Simpson Miller, the nation's 7th Prime Minister, is being installed for the second time.

By Alecia Smith-Edwards, JIS Reporter