Diplomatic row looms between Jamaica and the United States over gay diplomat.

According to Radio Jamaica, a diplomatic row has been brewing between Washington and Kingston over Jamaica’s refusal to accredit the spouse of an American diplomat.

According to the report, earlier this year the United States government wrote to the Jamaican government requesting approval of full diplomatic immunity and all the privileges for the married partner of an American diplomat about to be posted to Jamaica who is in a same-sex relationship.

The report states that the Jamaican government did not respond to the request at the expected time. The United States is said to have sent another diplomatic note demanding a response. The Jamaican government, then, responded and allegedly rejecting the request.    

According to Radio Jamaica News, a senior government source informed them that an approval of the request would mean Jamaica recognises same-sex marriages, which is illegal in this country. They went on to say that the sources told the media outlet that the United States then responded rejecting a request from the Jamaican government to extend the stay of three diplomats in Jamaica’s embassy and consulates in the United States. The United States issue a notice that the three diplomats must leave immediately after their five-year diplomatic visa expires.

The report states, the refusal to extend the diplomats visas are in contrast to other agreements, whereby extensions to diplomatic visas for Jamaican diplomats beyond the five-year period, are routine.

Two of the affected ambassadors are Jamaica’s ambassador to the United States Audrey Marks, and Consul General Oliver Mair, based in Miami. The two are ordered by the Americans to return to Jamaica this year.

The dispute, is said to have strained diplomatic relations between the two the allies and it is not known what other diplomatic measures, if any, the United States government might take against Jamaica.