Readers’ reactions

Golding warns against misuse of Speaker’s powers

The suggestion itself has merit but the rationale is a sly piece of political theatre. For nearly 65 years, we have functioned with the existing model from one JLP/PNP administration to another. So, what is the problem with this cohort of the Opposition? Why the intransigence? - @Zemi66

Republic status and a domestic final court of appeal could be paired with an independent Speaker. Let talks begin! Let’s ALL truly embrace Constitutional reform. - @LodricAtkinson

It sounds nice, but wholly unnecessary. The Speaker is not the issue, it’s the deplorable conduct of the Opposition in the house and their seemingly unwillingness to abide by the rules they help to create. - @rayandbaretingz

Leadership is not robotic. If it’s simply about following standing orders to the letter, then perhaps we should replace the Speaker with AI. That might be more orderly! Effective leadership requires sound judgement, fairness, discretion, and the ability to navigate situations beyond rigid rules. Standing orders should guide the process, not replace good leadership. - @lexymilli24

This country is so divided. - @thatboy_from_ja

There is a flaw in the system, the Speaker shouldn’t be aligned to any of the two political parties. The role should be independent and not partisan, until then, there will always be biases. - J

Barbados has no elected parliamentary opposition. Well, maybe we should copy that for the next election. - @clarendonlabourite

Jamaica is a small state. Hard to find an ‘independent’ candidate. We all have biases, whether perceived or otherwise. - @serious.talker

A House Speaker must be independent. - Amanda Smiley Love

Just asking for my own edification. What expectations the proposed new Speaker should bring to the House? And, should she follow through with those expectations, wouldn’t she be someone else’s puppet? Also, what if the new Speaker continues on the same path as the current Speaker, then what next? One thing I know is, if people decide to change, then everything else will fall into their respective place. - Mythical Bird

I totally agree with him. - Escoban Alli

That’s the way Parliament must operate; the Speaker of the House should be neutral. Not from the Government or the Opposition. Independent. No member of parliament. - Bailey Anthòney Karl

Readers’ reactions sourced from The Gleaner’s Responses are from X, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages. Compiled by Khanique McDaniel