Jamaica: republic legislation in September

Submitted by LJ Holden on 17 August, 2012 - 17:45

The Jamaican Gleaner reports a draft bill, aimed at creating the framework for making Jamaica a republic, to be ready for tabling in the Jamaican House of Representatives in September. Justice Minister Senator Mark Golding said the Government was far advanced with plans to replace Britain's Queen as the country's head of state.


It remains to be seen if the Bill will include provision for a referendum on the issue. As many readers will know, this is our position for the transition to a New Zealand republic. However under Jamaica's constitution it is not a legal requirement - only a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of parliament and a six-month deliberation on the changes is needed.

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