Dear Editor,

Jamaica’s democratic identity is strong, yet our political system remains dominated by two major parties — the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP). While spirited competition between these parties has long defined our elections, it also means that smaller voices — environmental advocates, indigenous Maroon communities, and other civic interest groups — are effectively absent from formal parliamentary representation. That limitation contributes to tribalism, concentrated power, and limited political engagement among citizens.

Across the world, other democratic systems offer lessons worth considering. Canada’s 2025 federal election is one such example. The Liberal Party, led by Mark Carney, won the most seats, but fell short of a majority, resulting in a minority Government. At the same time, the Conservative Party, New Democratic Party (NDP), Bloc Québécois, and the Green Party all hold seats in the federal Parliament, giving multiple perspectives a formal voice in national decision-making. This structure requires negotiation and compromise, and it provides a wider range of citizens with meaningful choices about who represents them.

The impact on civic engagement is significant. Canada’s federal election saw about 68.7% voter turnout, one of the highest levels in decades. That contrasts sharply with Jamaica’s 2025 General Election turnout of about 39.5%, only slightly higher than our low turnout in 2020. When voters feel that even smaller parties and minority interests can influence governance, they are more likely to participate in elections and feel that their vote truly matters.

This raises important considerations for Jamaica’s democratic development:

• Broaden representation through electoral reform: Introducing proportional or mixed electoral systems — where seats in Parliament are allocated not purely by winner-take-all constituencies but also by overall vote share — would allow minority parties and interest groups to secure representation in proportion to their support. This would give voices for environmental stewardship, cultural communities, and advocacy groups a seat at the table.

• Support the growth of issue-based platforms: Facilitating fair access for smaller parties and civic movements — including equal access to ballots, public debates, and funding frameworks — would ensure that diverse perspectives are not just heard, but can win representation and influence policy.

• Strengthen citizen engagement initiatives: When people believe their participation matters, turnout improves. Systems that enable realistic representation for a broader range of voters can inspire more Jamaicans to participate in elections and civic life, enhancing accountability and trust in democratic institutions.

Canada’s experience shows that diversity of representation strengthens democracy. Minority parties enrich policy debates, hold governments accountable, and offer voters meaningful alternatives. Jamaica should consider steps that would open our parliamentary system to a broader set of voices — not only to strengthen democratic choice, but to repair trust, reduce tribalism, and improve civic participation.

As citizens and policymakers, we must push for reforms that ensure every Jamaican feels represented and motivated to engage in the democratic process. True democracy is not only winning elections; it is about ensuring everyone has a rightful place in shaping our nation’s future.

Michael M Myles

michael.myles@utech.edu.jm