Constituency boundaries panel directs ECJ to open electoral review for 2026–2028 cycle

Parliament's Constituency Boundaries Committee convened on 23 June 2026 to advance Jamaica's latest review of voting districts, responding to a reminder from the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) that the current statutory period runs from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028.

The panel formally acknowledged an ECJ letter dated 2 April 2026. Members underscored that the commission cannot begin technical work without a directive from Parliament, and that the committee carries a constitutional duty to keep constituency numbers and borders in line with the law. Jamaica presently has 63 constituencies, though the constitution permits up to 65.

Several lawmakers argued against creating additional seats at this stage, preferring to realign existing boundaries where elector rolls breach upper or lower limits or show wide disparities. One member pointed to imbalances in Westmoreland and St. Catherine, where registered voters in some divisions range from roughly 30,000 to more than 48,000, while North East St. Andrew reportedly sits below the minimum threshold. Another raised equity concerns, noting that constituencies with vastly different populations still receive similar Constituency Development Fund allocations.

The committee also asked the ECJ to review parish council divisions that are unusually large in population or geography, and to recommend new divisions where needed. Adjustments affecting Portmore were understood to fall within the broader review.

Rather than authorising fieldwork without further engagement, members agreed to invite ECJ officials to a later session once preliminary analysis is ready. The commission was asked to report identified anomalies, limit breaches, a projected timeline, and any other matters requiring the committee's attention. Legislative counsel noted the panel has not historically operated on a fixed timetable, though past cycles have typically produced draft recommendations within about 18 months.

A draft response to the ECJ was to be circulated to members the same afternoon for approval, with transmission to the commission targeted for the following day. The panel's next sitting was set for 1 July 2026; further meetings would depend on when the ECJ completes its initial update.

Officials present included parliamentary research officer Angelica Patterson, legislative counsel Ashley Simmonds, and committee clerk Brandon Nash. Apologies were recorded for member Dennis Daley, while member Williams indicated he might arrive late.