By Markelia Rumble

People’s National Party President Mark Golding has defended the Opposition’s decision not to participate in the joint select committee examining Jamaica’s transition to a republic until the government addresses key concerns with the process.

Specifically, the Opposition Leader is seeking clarification on the country’s final appellate court and whether the government plans to abolish the Privy Council in favor of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

Speaking at a political meeting in Western St. Mary yesterday, Golding emphasized that the Opposition is taking a firm stance on what it views as a matter of national pride and self-sufficiency.

He insisted that any move to make Jamaica a republic, severing ties with King Charles as head of state must be coupled with making the CCJ Jamaica’s final appellate court.

Golding argued that the two reforms should happen together for a coherent and meaningful transition and reiterated his call for Prime Minister Andrew Holness to clarify the Jamaica Labour Party’s position on the CCJ.

In response, Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Marlene Malahoo Forte called for stronger leadership from Mr. Golding regarding Jamaica’s transition to a republic.

The Minister warned against using the reform period to divide the electorate on key national issues.