Jamaica Roundup: Constitutional reform, fading republic dream, dilapidated cities

G2K slams Mark Golding for approach to constitutional reform

The Generation 2000 (G2K), the young professional arm of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), has issued a strong rebuke against Opposition Leader Mark Golding over his handling of constitutional reform matters. The group accused Golding of demonstrating poor leadership and a lack of maturity in engaging with the bipartisan process meant to guide Jamaica’s transition to a republic. G2K’s statement described his stance as obstructive and politically motivated, arguing that his approach undermines the cooperative spirit necessary for such a critical national transition. The organisation emphasised that constitutional reform should be treated as a matter of national interest rather than partisan politics. It urged the Opposition to return to the table with a genuine intent to collaborate on reshaping Jamaica’s governance framework for future generations.

PNP’s Gordon calls for urgent action to address Sandy Gully

Dennis Gordon, a representative of the People’s National Party (PNP), has called for swift government intervention to address the worsening conditions in the Sandy Gully area. He raised concerns about the dilapidated drainage systems that have led to flooding, infrastructure collapse, and health hazards for residents. Gordon warned that continued neglect could result in further environmental degradation and displacement of vulnerable communities. He stressed the need for a dedicated rehabilitation plan to restore the gully and prevent future disasters. His plea was framed not only as an environmental issue but also as a matter of social justice, urging the government to allocate the necessary resources to protect lives and livelihoods in the area.

Jamaica becoming a republic remains a pipe dream

In a widely circulated Letter of the Day, a commentator argued that Jamaica’s dream of becoming a republic remains distant, despite ongoing political discourse. The letter criticised both major political parties for lacking the political will and cohesive vision required to execute the transition from a constitutional monarchy to a republic. It suggested that while there is widespread public support for the idea, political leaders have failed to translate rhetoric into action. The author lamented the slow pace of reform, attributing it to entrenched political divisions, bureaucratic inertia, and public apathy. The letter concluded that unless Jamaica’s leadership can rise above partisan considerations and commit to decisive action, the dream of full sovereignty and a republican system will remain unrealised for years to come.

'Arrogant and immature’, G2K criticises Golding

In a follow-up to its earlier remarks, G2K intensified its criticism of Mark Golding, calling his behaviour in the constitutional reform discussions “arrogant and immature.” The group contended that Golding’s refusal to engage with the Constitutional Reform Committee fully reflects a disregard for the collective will of the Jamaican people. G2K further accused him of prioritising political optics over meaningful dialogue, suggesting that his attitude threatens to stall progress on critical constitutional amendments, including Jamaica’s move toward full republican status. The statement called for all political leaders to demonstrate maturity and patriotism, reminding them that constitutional reform is about the people’s empowerment and the modernisation of Jamaica’s democratic institutions, not personal political gain.