Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness told Britain’s Prince William and Kate that the Caribbean island intends to become fully independent in unexpected announcement that comes like the others countries Consider parting ways with Property.
holiness also He noted that there were “unresolved” issues as he welcomed Prince William and Kate in In front of me of a media Scrum.
“we moving on,” he said. “We are intent on… an investigation true independent ambitions and destiny, developedProsperous country. “
The former It will only become a British colony second Caribbean island to cut ties with Queen Elizabeth II in Last few years, with Barbados do it in November.
royal couple, who surrounded by holiness on As for side when is made The announcementShe didn’t reply right away for just a couple of Brief head Gestures.
The announcement surprised many on Al Jazeera of nearly 3 million people Unleashed a wave of Text messages and phone calls.
“I was not know that prime minister He will say what he said today. I think it is very important step forward Carla Golotta said, director of stand up for Jamaica, a non-profit human rights organization organization who – which joined dozens of Other groups and leaders in Signing of a recently published letter demanding Britain’s apology and compensation.
She told The Associated Press (AP) that her phone started ringing just After minutes of holiness made The announcementwhich comes a day after Golota et al joined A demonstration was held hours Before the arrival of the royal couple in Jamaica on Tuesday as part of 1 week tour of Central America and the Caribbean organized on request of Queen This coincide with 70th Anniversary of her coronation.
“I brought this visit back to light that many Jamaicans are looking for forward Until Jamaica becomes a fully independent republic,” she said, adding that the island has every opportunity and potential to do so.
However, she indicated that many concerned about the continuation of government Corruption that erodes people’s trust: “If you don’t trust those leading country will be hard for people to take a stand.”
Veteran lawmaker Mike Henry also He told The Associated Press he’s worried about the demands for Apologies and reparations for slavery would not be dealt with if Jamaica chose independence.
Meanwhile, Golota said she doesn’t support compensation in Sample of Shake, which she described as “ridiculous.” Instead, the Jamaicans said should be compensated in other ways with Including scholarships and access for health care.
“What is not served in the past should Apply now,” she said.
Britain ruled Jamaica for more More than 300 years, forcing hundreds of in thousands of African slaves toiling the land under harsh conditions. Jamaica gained its independence in August 1962 but remained within the Commonwealth.
