Royal Welcome Despite Controversy: Prince William and Kate’s Invitation to Jamaica

Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness said he would finish his efforts to put an end to the monarchy in his country. Yet, he emphasized that the Caribbean island extends a warm welcome to Prince William and Kate Middleton, despite facing protests during their controversial royal tour last year. While expressing admiration for the royals, Holness mentioned his inclination towards concluding the monarchy after the Queen’s demise.

Holness stated that there had always been love and respect for the Queen in Jamaica and mentioned that the appropriate time to do it would have been on a transition. Holness noted recent polls showing a tendency towards republic change and stressed public support for transitioning to that form of government. Currently, 49% of Jamaicans back becoming republicans while 40% prefer staying monarchs and 11% are still undecided about which should be chosen. Kingston is one of eight Caribbean nations retaining ties with the British monarchy.

The process is not linear, and it will take different forms in different settings, Holness pointed out. They have started a journey of public education and consultation. There will be a legislative phase as well as tabling legislation in Parliament after which there would be a six-month passage period before reaching the referendum stage. The timeline for Jamaica’s republic status would depend on the pace at copy number. 

While no specific date was given for becoming a republic, Holness expressed intentions to pass the legislation within a year from the start of the constitutional reform process. He acknowledged that public education and consultation extended the timeline. In contrast, Jamaica’s Minister for Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Marlene Malahoo Forte, criticized King Charles: Many Jamaicans identify with Queen Elizabeth II but not with you.