The move to make Jamaica a republic has been described by Prime Minister Andrew Holness as an important step in completing the country’s journey to political independence.

Holness, who was speaking at a Diplomatic Week event on Tuesday (February 28), told more than 50 residents and non-residents that the matter is an imperative that will “consume our attention in Jamaica”.

He said that the Government is “working closely with various stakeholders, including the Opposition, to ensure that the preparatory process is seamless and allows for the full and effective engagement of our people”.

Marlene Malahoo Forte, minister of legal and constitutional affairs, revealed that the Constitutional Reform (CR) Committee, which will play a pivotal role in Jamaica’s seamless transition to a republic, has now been constituted and has commenced its work.

Malahoo Forte said the CR Committee will “provide advice and oversight as we move on the most comprehensive and impactful constitutional reform work to be undertaken in the life of independent Jamaica”.

Additionally, she said the CR Committee’s work will be supported by a Secretariat, which is now being formulated.

“It is our intention to transition Jamaica from a Constitutional monarchy to establish the Republic of Jamaica, within the Commonwealth, as a Parliamentary Republic with a non-executive president,” the minister noted.