The Editor, Sir:

While on the subject of the need to review citizenship policies, I was deeply alarmed by one apparent new policy on citizenship as it relates to overseas-based Jamaicans.

I was made to understand from official sources that a minor who has been validly issued a Jamaican passport at least three times since birth in 1984, based on having parents who are Jamaican nationals according to applicable law, is not eligible, to receive a registration certificate as an adult unless application is made on the basis of residency. The reason given was a change in the constitution in 1977.

Jeopardy

I wonder how many nationals among the diaspora would be placed in jeopardy by virtue of this requirement?

It also raises a serious concern of whether a sovereign government has the right to deny a citizen by descent of his or her statehood, which was acquired legitimately in accordance with applicable law.

I respectfully suggest that this must be an anomaly that has to be rectified for the benefit of all overseas Jamaicans who may wish to ensure that their future generations may always enjoy the right to live in the homeland of their parents.

I am, etc.,

LALU N. VASWANI

laluvaswani@caribsurf.com

25 Clapham Close

St Michael, Barbados

Via Go-Jamaica