Jamaica is ready to shed Queen Elizabeth as its head of state, according to several January 6 reports. For all that the Queen is celebrating her Diamond Jubilee this year, newly re-elected Jamaican Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller of the People's National Party, has stated that she would start constitutional reforms before Jamaica turned 50 on August 6. Jamaica declared its independence from the United Kingdom in 1962 and now wants independence from the Crown Court which has, on several occasions, commuted capital sentencing to life sentences on appeal.
Nevertheless, the new Prime Minister of Jamaica still said that the Queen was a “wise and wonderful lady.” Sky News reported that the Queen is as likely to congratulate Jamaica on its new adventure as to be disappointed; since Jamaica will remain in the Commonwealth, the countries' relationship will still remain close. (Story continues below.)
Queen Elizabeth is head of state of 16 Realms, a leftover from the time of the British Empire. It's been a long time since the sun didn't set on the Empire; as the monarchy moves slowly from its last Queen to its next two Kings, it's not surprising that some countries will seek a change.
Prime Minister Miller will perhaps have an opportunity to discuss these matters with Prince Harry, who is set to visit Jamaica in March as part of a worldwide tour of British Royals. It will be his first time officially representing his grandmother in any other capacity than as a member of the Armed Forces. For its part, Buckingham Palace has said this is a matter for the Jamaican people, and that has been its stance through every move into republicanism through the last several decades.
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