Letter of the Day | Consensus on inclusive and participatory constitutional reform process

THE EDITOR, Madam:

At his swearing-in, many Jamaicans were encouraged to hear the prime minister commit to “an inclusive and consultative government” and to partner with the opposition leader in completing the work of making Jamaica a republic. Many now hope that both leaders will quickly move beyond the exchange of letters to the Vale Royal Talks, where “frank dialogue and principled compromise” can take place.

While consensus between both leaders is necessary for changing parts of our Constitution, it is not sufficient to yield meaningful constitutional changes that can impact the lives of the Jamaican people. Importantly, it is hoped that the talks will produce consensus about how Jamaican people can influence these important constitutional decisions that directly affect them.

The good news is that both leaders have promised an inclusive and participatory constitutional reform process. The Jamaica Labour Party manifesto promised: “We remain committed to an inclusive and participatory process that advances the phases of reform and strengthens our democratic foundations.”

The People’s National Party manifesto promised: “We will pursue constitutional amendments through a transparent and participatory process that engages all stakeholders from the ground up.”

But, how will we achieve this participatory process where “the voices of all Jamaicans are heard and respected”? Forging consensus around the answer to this question should be the top priority at the Vale Royal Talks.

Should the approach be to replicate the Constitutional Reform Committee as an advisory body to Cabinet? Or should we embark on a new process led by a Special Joint Committee of Parliament, which could provide a more inclusive platform for engagement with all citizens, civil society bodies, and Jamaicans in the diaspora?

The latter would be recommended, including equal representation from the legislature, the Senate, and local government, with a special role for the independent voice of the Judiciary. The process should be supported by research and a public education campaign using our diverse cultural expressions.

Early consensus on these issues would place the Jamaican people at the centre of the constitutional reform process and shift the focus from what appears to be a “political leader–centric” approach to a “people-centric” one. Jamaicans want an inclusive constitutional reform process with outcomes that empower them to influence and make important decisions that can improve their living standards. Achieving consensus on this is a “low hanging fruit”, since both leaders have already committed to pursuing an inclusive and participatory process.

ROSALEA HAMILTON

Founding Director, Institute

of Law & Economics

rosaleahamilton@gmail.com