Danielle Archer, Principal Director of National Integrity Action (NIA), has expressed concern over former Minister for Legal and Constitutional Affairs Marlene Malahoo Forté not being reappointed to the Cabinet, calling it “conspicuous” given the government’s stated ambitions for constitutional reform and the significant public investment in the process.
“Naturally this raises the issue: what happens next?” Archer said to the Jamaica Observer. “Has the reform agenda been paused, redirected, or quietly shelved?” She highlighted that the portfolio has now been reattached to the Ministry of Justice—a move some believe should have occurred from the outset.
Archer stressed that Malahoo Forté’s exclusion, combined with the portfolio shift, warrants scrutiny. “Is this a sign of institutional realignment or a political retreat? Is constitutional reform still a top priority, or has it become a matter of convenience?”
Malahoo Forté, the only former Cabinet member dropped by Prime Minister Andrew Holness, was reelected in the St James West Central constituency during the September 3 General Elections. She had led the Ministry of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, which was specifically created to drive constitutional reform. Delroy Chuck’s Ministry of Justice, previously named the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has now returned to that title.
Archer also voiced concerns over the return of politicians facing, or who have faced, serious corruption allegations. “When the public is unaware of which senators or MPs from the previous administration were under investigation for illicit wealth, and when the Prime Minister himself has not addressed inquiries transparently, it signals an alarming normalization of opacity,” she said.
She added that the reelection of such figures reflects a deeper issue: “For many voters, ideals like accountability, transparency, or ethical governance have not yet become decisive voting criteria. Until integrity is treated as non-negotiable, we will see the same patterns repeated; business as usual.”
Archer further noted that anticipated retirements among Cabinet members almost guarantee a reshuffle in the near future. “For now, ministers either continue in a business-as-usual capacity or serve as placeholders—drafted in to maintain appearances while the political deck is quietly reshuffled. The current configuration is provisional, and the public should watch closely what these transitional decisions signal about the administration’s priorities and long-term intentions.”
Prime Minister Holness has confirmed that several senior Cabinet members have indicated their plans to retire. He stated that the renewal process has begun and expects some ministers to leave during the current parliamentary term, with others departing towards its end.
