Legal and Constitutional Affairs Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte has expressed hope that the next stage of Jamaica’s constitutional reform process will proceed smoothly, with meaningful support from the opposition.

The Constitution (Amendment)(Republic) Bill, 2024, which will abolish the constitutional monarchy and transition Jamaica to a republic, was tabled in parliament a month ago on December 10.

It must lay on the table of the House for three months before the debate on it can begin.

Speaking during a virtual panel discussion on constitutional reform, Mrs. Malahoo Forte said those involved in the process must look beyond party positions and focus on the greater good.

She added that the government remains committed to hearing the concerns of the opposition and the Jamaican people.