ST JAMES, Jamaica — Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Marlene Malahoo Forte, says all Jamaicans who are registered to vote will have a say in whether or not Jamaica transitions away from a constitutional monarchy to a republic.

In April, during a Royal Visit of Prince William and his wife Kate, Prime Minister Andrew Holness informed them of the country’s intention to cut ties with the royal family and become a republic.

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“Now, Jamaica is about to make some important changes. Changes at the level of the constitution and the constitution is our highest law. Every other law must be consistent with the constitution. Prime Minister (Andrew) Holness indicated the intention of the Government to put in a local head of state and move on from her majesty the Queen of England and that work will involve you because it’s not just the members of parliament who will vote on that important change when the time comes,” Malahoo, the Member of Parliament for St James West Central, stated during the launch of the Universal Service Fund community Wi-Fi initiative in Bogue Hill, St James on Thursday evening.

She added, “The constitution says that matter has to go to the people, those of you who are registered to vote in a general election.”

Malahoo Forte told her constituents that she intends to utilise this well-needed internet connection to further communicate on this major change.

“I look forward to engaging with you, not only in person but through this new internet tool, the free WiFi. We are going to be talking a lot about what it means to be Jamaican, and what are the values of Jamaicans as we go forward. This year, we mark 60 years of independence, what will the next 60 years look like? We adults may not be around but the young children here will come into their own,” she stated.

In April, during a post-Cabinet press briefing, Minister Malahoo Forte advised that this constitutional change could not be made in time for the country’s 60th anniversary of Independence in August.

“The constitution sets out its own process for amendment and we cannot deviate from it. The commitment of the Prime Minister to transition Jamaica away from a constitutional monarchy is one that will be kept, but I know persons are wondering whether we will have it done in time for the celebration of Jamaica 60. Unfortunately, the procedures set out in the Constitution will not permit that timing to be met,” she said.

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Along with the votes of the people, Malahoo Forte told reporters that there are deeply entrenched reform issues that have to be addressed, noting that the process will need to be carefully sequenced. A two-thirds majority vote in each house is also required plus a referendum, where the electorate will also have their vote on the issue.