Local News

Why Grenada Should Not become a Republic

Grenada is a beautiful Caribbean nation with a rich history and culture. The country gained independence from Britain on February 7, 1974 under the late Prime Minister Sir Eric M. Gairy and since been a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, with King Charles III as its head of state. However, there have been calls in recent years for Grenada to become a republic, with a president as its head of state instead of a monarch. While the idea of a republic may seem appealing to some, there are several reasons why Grenada should not go the republic way.

Firstly, the monarchy has been a symbol of stability and continuity for Grenada. The King’s role as head of state is purely symbolic, but it provides a sense of unity and tradition for a tiny island. Grenada has a unique and complex history, including a revolution on March 13, 1979 and a US-led invasion on October 25, 1983. Through all of this, the monarchy has remained a constant presence, providing a sense of continuity and stability for the country. By removing the monarchy, Grenada risks losing this sense of continuity and stability, which could be detrimental to the country’s political and social stability.

Secondly, becoming a republic would involve significant costs and resources that could be better used elsewhere. The process of transitioning to a republic would require changes to the constitution, the creation of new institutions, and the election of a president. This would require a significant amount of time, effort, and money, which could be better used to address more pressing issues in the country, such as poverty, unemployment, and healthcare. Furthermore, the cost of maintaining a presidential system could be significantly higher than the cost of maintaining the current system, which could put a strain on the country’s already limited resources.

Thirdly, the monarchy provides Grenada with a unique international profile and diplomatic advantages. As a member of the Commonwealth, Grenada has access to a network of 54 countries, which provides economic and diplomatic benefits. The King also serves as a symbolic link between Grenada and the rest of the Commonwealth, which can be beneficial for trade and investment. By becoming a republic, Grenada would lose these diplomatic advantages and would have to negotiate new relationships with other countries, which could be difficult and time-consuming.

Constitutionally, Grenada will be required to have a referendum with a 66.66% support from the people. In the past Grenada has had two referendums for constitution changes which failed. With our politics as it is another referendum will fail miserable.

In conclusion, let me remind Grenadians that much larger countries like Canada, Australia and New Zealand are still carrying the King as head of state. Grenada still uses the British awards to honor its citizens. Let us put all our efforts and resources in developing our lovely country, bringing back our agriculture and spices that makes us who we are today.

By T.L. Neckles

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