Electoral Reform and Good Governance: The Case of Jamaica

Abstract

Jamaica has enjoyed a relatively stable democratic system since independence in 1962. The two main political parties have alternated in power. Election results have been accepted as reflecting the majority view. Nevertheless, recognised flaws have led to periodic reform efforts, these escalating between 1997 and 2007. This article questions the effectiveness of these reforms. The first section locates the Jamaican experience of electoral reform within the broader concept of good governance. While Jamaica has not been required to implement good governance programmes, it is evident that these discourses have permeated the political and electoral reform agenda. The second section of the article examines the specifics of electoral reform. I argue that while there has been a positive impact in terms of decreasing levels of fraud and impersonation, reform has failed to significantly alter voting cultures in the garrison areas.