⁠PNP Abstains From Vote Stripping King of Authority in Enacting Local Laws

The Opposition PNP has abstained from a bill which would see future Jamaican laws passed on the authority of the Parliament and the people of Jamaica, rather than the British Monarch.

The bill was carried through all its stages in the House of Representatives on Tuesday by legal affairs minister, Marlene Malahoo Forte.

As it now stands, laws are enacted on the authority of the King, with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Representatives.

The bill proposes the amendment of Section 61 of the Constitution to remove reference to the “King’s Most Excellent Majesty” in enacting Jamaican laws.

However, Opposition leader, Mark Golding questioned the logic and timing of the move.

Mark Golding, Opposition Leader.

The bill, which required a simple majority, passed with 33 ayes and three abstentions. Twenty-Four MPs were absent, including Mr. Golding, who left the chamber before the vote was cast.

Minister Malahoo Forte dismissed Mr. Golding’s concerns.

Marlene Malahoo Forte, Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs.