US Attorney Everett Smith Responds to Educator and Author, Veronica Blake-Carnegie

Everett Smith - Attorney

The recent commentary by Veronica Blake-Carnegie posted on your blog and the comments posted in response thereto regarding the political system Jamaica should adopt, highlights the complexity of transitioning from a constitutional monarchy to a republican form of government. The core issue revolves around whether Jamaica should remain a member of the British Commonwealth with King Charles III as the head of state or become a republic with a president. Your insights into the necessity of educating the populace about this significant change, especially in today's fragmented communication landscape, are particularly pertinent.

Historically, Jamaica had a more centralized media environment, where the government could effectively control and disseminate information through limited channels such as the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), Radio Jamaica Rediffusion (RJR), and the Daily Gleaner. Today, however, the proliferation of social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Tic Toc, Twitter (now X), and others, has decentralized information flow, making it challenging to reach a consensus or educate the masses uniformly.

This decentralization necessitates a multifaceted approach to public education and engagement. Traditional media still plays a role, but it must be complemented by a robust digital strategy that leverages social media and other online platforms such as Bark Di Trute Blog and your daily show on Omega Radio. Engaging with influencers, producing accessible educational content, and fostering online discussions are critical components of this strategy, which this Blog has done.

Moreover, your comparison between different republican systems, such as Haiti's and others, presumably that of the United States', underscores the importance of choosing a model that fits Jamaica's unique political and social context. The role of a neutral arbiter, akin to a president who is not deeply entangled in partisan politics, could provide stability and continuity, mitigating the risk of political upheaval seen in other republics.

Very truly yours,

Everett Smith, Esq.

Law Offices of Everett Algernon Smith, P.A.
POB 8487
Coral Springs, FL 33075
Tel: 954-693-3566
Fax:954-693-3567

Contributor

Everett Smith, Esq.

Everett Smith, born in Jamaica, is a distinguished alumnus of Cornwall College, Montego Bay, graduating in 1968 with notable achievements in track and field, particularly as the reigning cross country champion at his graduation. He pursued higher education in the United States at Marymount College of Fordham University in New York, where he excelled academically, graduating summa cum laude with dual degrees in accounting and business administration. His outstanding academic performance earned him the Business Department Gold Medal of Honor, awarded for achieving the highest grade point average in the department.

Continuing his academic pursuits, Mr Smith attended the University of Maryland School of Law, where he was honoured with the University of Maryland Public Service Award, recognizing his contributions to public service through law. Upon completing his law degree, he successfully passed the bar and was admitted to practice in Maryland and Florida. His legal qualifications extend to practising in the United States District Court and the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the legal profession.