The naming of Dr Patrick Allen as governor general-designate raises some interesting issues.

First, since Dr Allen is a pastor and a senior member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, this move breaches the principle of separation of Church and State, a principle that exists not only to prevent religious dictates in the country's politics but also insulates against the possibility of obligatory reciprocity by citizens on the basis of religion.

Constitution at risk

Second, the role of governor general is vested with much ceremonial authority, but no room for personal discretion in its disposition. The Government, having appointed a religious leader of one of the more intractable Christian denominations, has put the Constitution's smooth functioning at risk.

Third, the governor general's is an important diplomatic position - protocol and ceremony are essential aspects to his job. This new governor general, by virtue of his strict adherence to the Saturday Sabbath, will likely be absent from many state functions and the proposition that he would send a representative is simply not good enough.

In light of the above, it's clear that the Government was ill-advised on this appointment and that Dr Allen ought not to have accepted it.

I am, etc.,

PAUL DUNCAN

pduncan428@gmail.com

Kingston