Opposition Leader Mark Golding has threatened to withdraw opposition members from the Joint Select Committee reviewing the act to make Jamaica a republic if the government does not address his party’s concerns about the process.

In his opening remarks at the committee’s first meeting this morning, Mr. Golding emphasized that the Opposition stands firm on Jamaica delinking from the British monarchy.

He noted however, that the People’s National Party (PNP) advocates for full decolonization, where Jamaica not only moves to a republic but also distances itself from the United Kingdom-based Privy Council as its final appellate court.

Mr. Golding stated that the government must explain to the people why the bill to move to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has not been tabled and why it is proceeding with the constitutional reform process in a piecemeal fashion.

He called on Prime Minister Andrew Holness to provide answers to the opposition’s questions on the way forward.

In response, Chair of the Committee and Constitutional Affairs Minister, Marlene Malahoo Forte noted that the request is not an unreasonable one, and she will do her best to ensure that answers are provided.

She added that the government’s approach is not a “piecemeal” one and is guided by research from the region.