Dear Editor,

It is heartening and of national importance that there is growing public interest in the subject of constitutional reform. It is also clear that some of the basic concepts and relevant terms are not clearly understood.

Unfortunately, civics has not been treated as an important subject in our schools and for a long time was removed from the curriculum of many schools. It is, therefore, commendable that the Jamaica Observer, in association with Citizens Action For Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE), has initiated a series of presentations on important topics and questions relevant to the constitutional reform process.

There is no doubt that in a constitutional reform process great scope for varying views and innovative proposals exists. As such, we must be tolerant and respectful of the opinions of our fellow citizens.

It is, therefore, unfortunate that Kemar M Newman, in his letter published in the Observer on April 28, 2023 under the heading ‘Let’s get it right this time’, has condemned the members of the Constitutional Reform Committee as individuals who do not have the best interests of their fellow Jamaicans at heart.

Let us continue our discussions with tolerance and courtesy.

Dr Lloyd Barnett

dr.lgbarnett@gmail.com