As Jamaica continues its push for major constitutional changes, this is the second in a series by constitutional expert Dr Lloyd Barnett to be published by the Jamaica Observer highlighting some of the main proposals from the Constitution Reform Committee (CRC).

THE Jamaica Constitution, 1962 was drafted by a bipartisan joint committee of the Jamaican legislature, approved in the United Kingdom, and included as the Second Schedule of the Jamaica (Constitution) Order in Council, 1962. The CRC has suggested that:

1) Our aim is that we should have a constitution that is made in Jamaica and approved by the Parliament and people of Jamaica.

2) This constitution will be a Jamaican instrument with distinct Jamaican features.

3) This constitution of Jamaica will be as reader-friendly as practicable.

4) It must have a preamble which expresses our ‘Jamaicanness’; our national pride; and our aspirations for unity, peace and prosperity.

5) This constitution will exhibit our nation’s anthem, flag, emblems and symbols.

Proposals for the head of State:

1) In our new constitution we will have a Jamaican as our head of State.

2) He or she will be a non-political, non-partisan person who embodies Jamaican identity, culture and aspirations.

3) He or she will be chosen by a bipartisan process, with the approval of our parliamentary representatives.

4) He or she will serve for a fixed term of office of seven years, with scope for an extension of five years.

5) His or her appointment can only be terminated before the expiration of the term by an impartial and fair process.

6) Our president will have similar formal powers and the same executive functions as are now performed by the governor general but he or she will be acting as the representative of the people of Jamaica, and not the British king.

Dr Lloyd Barnett is a member of the CRC. Send feedback to editorial@jamaicaobserver.com