Why Constitutional Reform?

Saint Lucia became independent in 1979 and since then the world has changed dramatically. Further, the people of Saint Lucia have never, as a nation, had the opportunity to comment on the content of the Constitution. Additionally, the Saint Lucia Constitution, like that of most of the former British colonies, is a document of the British Parliament so that its source is therefore not the Legislature of our country. Within our own region several significant events have taken place, such as the ongoing evolution of a Single Market and Economy and a Caribbean Court of Justice. The environment and circumstances, within which Saint Lucia today operates, are considerably different from those which obtained thirty years ago.

Some people have also expressed the following views:

1. There was insufficient public participation in the preparation of the present Constitution.
2. Too much power resides in the position of Prime Minister.
3. The present Constitution tends to hinder the proper governance of the country. 

A revised Constitution therefore must:

1. Emerge from the expressed wishes of the people and must reflect their aspirations and expectations;
2. Enable all citizens to guard and enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms;
3. Make it easier for the people of our country to unite with others within the OECS and CARICOM;
4. Be simple to read, understand and apply; and
5. Deepen the process of democracy; enable the participation of all citizens, wherever they may reside, in the development of the country, as well as protect, defend and safeguard the interest and welfare of all Saint Lucians.
    

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