- Jamaica has begun the process of removing Queen Elizabeth as head of state, sources told the Independent.
- Prince William and Kate Middleton visited to the island this week.
- They have been met with protests in the country with citizens demanding reparations for slavery.
Jamaica has begun the process to have Queen Elizabeth removed as the country's head of state, government sources told The Independent and Harpers Bazaar.
The country will continue to work towards becoming a republic following Prince William's and Kate Middleton's visit to the island this week, a government source told The Independent's Race Correspondent Nadine White.
According to the publication, a senior figure has been appointed within the Jamaican government, who did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment, to lead the nation's journey towards becoming a republic, as Barbados officially did in November.
William and Kate's visit to the island was part of a week-long tour of the Caribbean countries that are part of the Commonwealth, to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. The couple was met with protests when they arrived in Kingston, Jamaica on Tuesday, with Jamaicans demanding reparations and apologies from the royal family for years of slavery.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had to cancel the first stop on their Caribbean tour — Belize — because of similar protests against the royals.
Representatives from the British government, Buckingham Palace, and Kensington Palace did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment.
This story is developing. Please check back for updates.
