KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s democratic institutions are mourning the loss of The Honourable Dorothy Pine-McLarty, a foundational figure in the nation’s electoral reform movement whose legacy continues to shape the country’s political processes. The prominent attorney and former Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) passed away recently, leaving behind a transformed electoral landscape.
Pine-McLarty’s remarkable career in electoral governance spanned multiple decades, beginning with her extensive service on the Electoral Advisory Committee before making history as the sole member to transition to its successor organization, the ECJ. Her visionary leadership as Commission Chairman from 2013 until her retirement in 2019 was characterized by institutional innovation and an unwavering commitment to preserving democratic integrity. During her tenure, she implemented crucial safeguards that strengthened public trust in Jamaica’s electoral system.
Beyond her electoral contributions, Pine-McLarty established herself as a legal luminary, serving as managing partner at the prestigious law firm Myers, Fletcher & Gordon. She was particularly celebrated for her dedication to mentoring emerging legal professionals, shaping the next generation of Jamaica’s judicial talent. Her exceptional service to nation-building earned her the Order of Jamaica in 2007, followed by an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean in 2019.
Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE), which collaborated closely with Pine-McLarty during her ECJ leadership, acknowledged her profound institutional knowledge and praised the robust working relationship they maintained throughout her tenure. The organization emphasized that her passing represents a significant moment for Jamaican democracy, noting that her contributions have left an indelible mark on the nation’s governance structures. CAFFE has extended heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and numerous admirers across the legal and electoral communities.