THE EDITOR, Sir:
The Jamaican Bar Association (JBA) has recently warned the ruling People's National Party (PNP) not to interpret a victory in the general election as approval by the electorate for the establishment of the proposed Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). As a member of the association, I am embarrassed by the association making such a statement without consulting its members while the PNP by its manifesto is not only consulting the people but also seeking their approval for the establishment of the CCJ. Universally, mandates are obtained through manifestos where referendum is not constitutionally required.
I am further embarrassed that the statement of the JBA demonstrates ignorance of the meaning and effects of a manifesto and that a manifesto is the most economic route for consultation and approval of the public while a referendum is just the opposite by its very high cost to taxpayers.
A manifesto is defined by New Webster's Dictionary of English Language as a public declaration of principles, objectives or opinion by a Government or political faction. By usage as indicated above, it gives mandate to a Government and this is Constitutional Law.
The statement of the Bar Association, is intentionally or unintentionally, tainted with the colour of frustration and obstruction of steps of the Government to further our independence while lowering our esteem in perpetuating British hegemony, which the British do not want to do by the promise of contribution to the establishment of the court and the expressed desire for us to do our own thing in this respect.
Forward with the CCJ, and by extension our Independence, by manifesto.
I am, etc.,
OWEN S. CROSBIE
3 Hotel Street
Manchester
