A report containing recommendations for proposed changes to the constitution by the Constitutional Reform Committee (CRC) was tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, May 21.

The report was tabled as a ministry paper following a meeting by Cabinet on Monday (May 20). This is the first phase in Jamaica’s transition to republic status.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the meeting marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey to constitutional reform.

“I am deeply grateful for the dedication and hard work of the Constitutional Reform Committee. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where Jamaica stands as a sovereign, independent republic, reflecting the will and aspirations of our people. The Jamaican people are watching, and their government will continue working to build consensus to deliver for them,” he said.

Leader of the Opposition, Mark Golding, has instructed representatives on the CRC not to sign off on the committee’s report until the government has responded to calls from the opposition for the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to replace the Privy Council as Jamaica’s final court.

However, the prime minister says his administration remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving consensus on the first phase of reform, replacing the British monarch as head of state with a Jamaican president.

Constitution Affairs Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte says the adoption of a phased approach to constitutional reform reflects the government’s commitment to thoughtful and inclusive change.

“By engaging with all stakeholders and building consensus, we are ensuring that the process is deliberate and reflective of the will of the Jamaican people,” she said.

The Ministry of Legal and Constitutional Affairs is set to launch a public education campaign to inform the Jamaican people about the committee’s recommendations.