A new chapter in Jamaica’s hurricane recovery has taken an unexpected turn as Accompong Maroon Chief Richard Currie announced that the community will not accept the Government of Jamaica’s offer to deploy members of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) to assist with rebuilding efforts.
The decision, made after what Currie described as a “deep, comprehensive internal review,” underscores long-standing cultural protocols, trauma concerns, and the Maroons’ treaty-recognised rights to govern their own recovery.
“We Are Grateful — But We Choose Our Own Path”
In a public statement, Currie expressed appreciation for the government’s willingness to mobilise resources to help Accompong rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. He acknowledged Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s offer and the readiness of international partners — including Ethiopia, Ghana, and Rwanda — to support Jamaica’s wider recovery.
But despite that gratitude, the Maroon Council reached a different conclusion.
Currie said that while the JDF’s intent may be humanitarian, the militarisation of Accompong’s space during recovery goes against their laws, cultural practices, and the emotional needs of residents still reeling from the storm’s destruction.
Emotional Trauma Played a Major Role
According to Currie, many elders, women, and families in the community have suffered deep emotional trauma due to the hurricane’s impact. He argued that the presence of armed soldiers — even in a humanitarian capacity — could worsen distress at a time when emotional stability is crucial.
He said reconstruction through civilian-led, community-based teams is the safest and most culturally appropriate path forward.
International Partnerships Already in Motion
Currie revealed that Accompong has already secured:
• International donations
• Technical sponsorships
• Volunteer engineering support
• Long-standing reconstruction partnerships
These efforts, coordinated through the Accompong Development Foundation, have been in place for years and provide what Currie calls a culturally aligned framework for rebuilding the Maroon territory.
Because of this existing network, the council believes that they can manage recovery without military involvement.
Government Support Not Rejected Entirely
Despite declining JDF assistance, Accompong has agreed to accept:
• Materials
• Equipment
• Supplies needed for rebuilding
Currie emphasised that the decision is not a rejection of cooperation but a deliberate commitment to cultural integrity, treaty obligations, and emotional well-being.
Treaty Obligations Remain Central
Currie also referenced the historic 1738 Maroon Treaty, which grants Accompong self-governance within its territory. He stressed that all recovery operations must remain consistent with Maroon laws, institutions, and protocols.
He stated that the council’s duty is to ensure reconstruction honors both the past and the people it protects.
A Call for Respect, Dialogue, and Stability
Currie reaffirmed Accompong’s commitment to peaceful engagement with the Government of Jamaica and international partners.
He said the decision reflects not a refusal of help, but a commitment to cultural survival, emotional sensitivity, and autonomous rebuilding in the wake of one of the most devastating storms to hit the Cockpit Country.
