THE EDITOR, Madam:
THERE ARE many journalists who like to compare American and Jamaican political dynamism. However, while there are some similarities the so-called "race card" is not one of them. This so-called "race card", which they (journalists) probably copied from watching United States political talk shows does not factor into Mr. Seaga's political misfortunes. Mr. Seaga's problem is his attitude and lack of charisma.
For most Jamaicans, Mr. Seaga is viewed as a Jamaican with the profound ability to lead the nation. However, Jamaica's politics has matured and Mr. Seaga is stuck in a time zone. Mr. Seaga is a relic of the old JLP Bustamante guard. He is seen as true Labourite "who will follow Bustamante till 'im dead". He is also seen as someone who opposes Caribbean unity, just like Bustamante and is fearful of delegating responsibilities, just like Bust-amante.
Prime Minister Patterson has played to Jam-aican political maturation. It was Prime Minister Patterson who called for Jamaica's first televised political debate (Patterson, Seaga and Golding) in the last election. It was Prime Minister Patterson who explicitly denounced political violence and established a code of ethics for his political party, the PNP. It is Prime Minister Patterson who is currently trying to establish an independent Election Commission, free from political intrusion. Prime Minister Patterson is like a (U.S.) President (Bill) Clinton, he will accept ideas from wherever it comes. He is a listener and a people person.
Mr. Seaga can win the next election if he transcends the JLP. Yes, that is his base, but he must go beyond Tivoli Gardens. Start meeting, listening and speaking to the Jamaican people. Delegate responsibilities, accept ideas from other people and start smiling more, Mr. Seaga. Outline a major policy such as "Privatising Primary School without Fees to Responsible Parents", to the nation. You can win the heart of the Jamaican people once again.
I am, etc.,
MICHAEL BROWN
E-mail: miguelbro@yahoo.com
Via Go-Jamaica
