Opposition Leader Mark Golding insist on full decolonization of Jamaica from the British Monarchy
Opposition Leader Mark Golding is standing firm on his position for full decolonization of Jamaica from the British Monarchy. He insists that the country’s bid to become a republic must align with ridding itself of the UK-based Privy Council as its final appellate court. As a part of this stance, Golding has directed the representatives of his party in the Constitutional Reform Committee not to give their approval to the committee’s report until full decolonization is achieved.
Golding’s position could potentially impact the first phase of the government’s constitutional reform efforts, as the administration will need a ‘yes’ vote from at least one Opposition senator to make the republic transformation. Golding points out the importance of a local or regional court system that is accessible to the citizens, stating, “Jamaicans need a final court where they don’t need a visa to go there, and where the costs are not way out of their reach.”
The Opposition Leader announced he had conversate with Prime Minister Andrew Holness on the matter.
On a post on social media he wrote, Good Morning Jamaica! It’s important that the facts are made clear in regards to our stance on Constitutional Reform. Therefore I am sharing with you a letter I sent to the Prime Minister last Tuesday, May 7th; after a brief discussion with him a fortnight prior on April 23rd; I still await his response on the Government’s position.
The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC) is a legacy that dates back to the British colonial era, where individuals from the colonies could appeal to London as a last resort. The CCJ, established in 2005, handles civil disputes involving the 12 signatory countries. Out of these, only Barbados, Guyana, and Belize have replaced the JCPC with the CCJ as their final criminal court of appeal.
The Constitutional Reform Committee, however, has already signed the list of recommendations designed to cut ties with the Monarchy and establish the Republic of Jamaica. These adaptations are deeply entrenched and will require a referendum.
Furthermore, Golding has reiterated his call for the institution of a regulatory mechanism for impeaching public officials and recalling “non-performing” elected representatives. He has already tabled an impeachment bill in the House of Representatives. Additionally, Golding suggests that opposition party members should chair most parliamentary committees.
For continuous developments and the next steps, Golding anticipates a response from Prime Minister Andrew Holness for clarity on the government’s stand on this pressing issue. The country awaits the formal report that will be presented to the Cabinet and Parliament and made available for public debate.