Recognising the anniversary of Ja’s first step to democracy

THE EDITOR, Madam:

This year, 2024, Jamaica celebrates the 80th anniversary of its first constitutional step on the road to representative government and parliamentary democracy. Universal adult suffrage was introduced and for the first time in Jamaica’s history, all resident Commonwealth citizens who were adults had the right to vote without the need to own property. In addition, an Executive Council was established which included elected members of Parliament and had the responsibility to be “the principal instrument of policy”. Thus, the first step towards popular parliamentary Cabinet government was taken.

The first general election on the universal adult franchise was held in December 1944. It was contested by popular political parties, two of which, the Jamaica Labour Party and the People’s National Party, remain active and represented in our Parliament today.

Thus, 1944 was a year of history making. It has provided a foundation for our democracy. It is disappointing that there has been no official notice taken of the significance of this anniversary nor announcement of any plans to celebrate it.

LLOYD BARNETT