Phases of Constitutional Reform Not Piecemeal Effort – Minister

Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Marlene Malahoo Forte, is reminding Jamaicans that the phased process of constitutional reform is not a piecemeal effort.

Speaking at a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank, she said the Ministry has a very clear picture of what should be achieved.

“We are implementing the changes in phases and it’s important for Jamaicans to understand that phasing implementation is not piecemeal reform. We are seeking to achieve a new Constitution reflecting the will and aspiration of the people of Jamaica, with institutions that will serve the people of Jamaica, with processes that are fair to the people of Jamaica; the rights and responsibilities that are guaranteed to ensure that all Jamaicans can realise their place in the community,” the Minister said.

Mrs. Malahoo Forte explained that the work being done is designed to have the machinery of government better serve the people of Jamaica.

“We are working through the challenges and we are working to reform government to better serve the people. I want to say to my fellow Jamaicans that government is going to be a reflection of the state of the people… . I want you to view this journey of the Road to Republic as a journey that is allowing us to take full responsibility for ourselves,” she said.

With the Constitution (Amendment) (Republic) Bill, 2024 to amend the Jamaican Constitution to transition the country towards a republic, tabled in the House of Representatives in December, now before a Joint Select Committee for review, the process is more than 50 per cent complete.