Final preparations are underway in Accompong for the Annual Maroon Fest, even as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) contends the massively hyped event contravenes the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA). 

The Maroon village, nestled in the hills of St Elizabeth, is expected to be the background for a showdown between Accompong’s colonially revered sovereignty and whether the Jamaican State can impose its mandate over people who don’t recognise its authority. 

Historically, on January 6 each year, the Accompong Maroons celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the 1739 peace treaty with the British. Held in Accompong, St. Elizabeth, this festival marks the victory of the Maroons in the first war against the British in which they fought for their freedom, led by their late hero Cudjoe.

And this year would be no different.

In a December 23 Instagram post, Colonel Richard Currie, who leads the Accompong Maroons, invited all willing to the spectacle that will be Maroon Fest 2022, scheduled for Thursday, January 6.

Jamaicans not a part of Accompong can attend Maroon Fest and could even win an all-inclusive vacation in the rustic Cockpit Country; dining with Currie himself and his culture group in a virtual raffle. The enclave leader is also offering a VIP experience for those inclined to pay the US$50 fee.

Regular entry to the Maroon festival is J$1,000 for Jamaicans 16 years and older with secure parking offered for an additional $500. 

The Accompong Chief further assured that anti-coronavirus protocols would be enforced, with persons exhibiting cold/flu symptoms being denied access.

It was not immediately clear from the post whether Accompong took any preference towards vaccinated vs unvaxxed guests. 

Currie did clarify, however, that COVID-19 testing and isolation stations would be in place to safeguard patrons. 

“Maroons, friends and family, we invite you to support our 284th anniversary by purchasing our online tickets which offers an opportunity for a VIP experience in Accompong and chance to WIN the RAFFLE for an all inclusive vacation to Accompong Town, Cockpit Country to meet and dine with the Chief and Culture group (sic),” the Maroon leader said.

Today, Currie indicated that ‘Abeng Water’ would also be among the products on sale at 284th Annual Maroon Fest, which also features live music, live entertainment and an unnamed special guest. 

Meanwhile, the JCF, in a statement on Wednesday, said as far as the Jamaican Government is concerned, Accompong hosting a large gathering such as Maroon Fest breaches provisions of the DRMA. 

While acknowledging the historical importance of the festival to the Maroons, the JCF contended that public gatherings, even in Accompong, are limited at this time to 10 people. 

“The Police are also calling on the organisers of the event to comply with the instructions given by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and to cancel the planned event,” the JCF declared.

See the JCF’s statement in full below: 

“The Police have been made aware of an intended event in Accompong, St Elizabeth on Thursday, January 6.

The police are also aware that this event, traditionally staged each year, marks the start of the Maroon New Year and is usually attended by hundreds of patrons. However, under the existing Disaster Risk Management Act, (Order No. 12), public gatherings are limited to ten persons.

The St Elizabeth Police have also been informed by our partners in the Ministry of Health and Wellness that no approvals have been given for the staging of this event. We are therefore warning persons not to attend the event, as such action will constitute a breach of the COVID-19 regulations. 

The Police are also calling on the organisers of the event to comply with the instructions given by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and to cancel the planned event.

The public is being reminded that health officials have cautioned that cases of COVID-19 are currently on the rise, and as a result, it is crucial that persons adhere to the regulations to protect themselves as the Police do what is necessary to keep all Jamaicans safe. Persons are also urged to comply with any instructions given by the police in all circumstances.”