The culture of 'divide and rule'

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE VIOLENCE that is being experienced in western Kingston on the eve of general elections is evidence of the emergence of a culture that I once thought had taken the back burner in the wake of globalisation, and the fact that people have become aware of what is best for the development of themselves and the nation.

This culture I speak of is a 'divide and rule' culture practised by colonials in the slavery era, by local politicians in the 1980s, and is now emerging once again in the new millennium. The senseless deaths of members of our armed forces, the deaths and injuries of citizens of our nation Jamaica Land We Love, should make the politicians demand an end to the senseless killings. Let us not fool ourselves by thinking that it is out of their hands. The fact is that it is very much their call and since there is not the aggressive demand for cease-fire, it therefore leads one to consider what benefits are there for individuals in gaining political power.

People are driven out of their homes they have worked so hard for to shelter their children. Children will be psychologically scarred and will live with fear, anger, uncertainty and hatred all the days of their lives. Let us just consider above all else the future of our country and its young children. What examples do we want them to follow, what foundation are we laying for them when we have turned away investments and tourists that provide economic development directly or indirectly?

Since we have been depending on ourselves to promote peace, security and love for all and have failed, I think that it is prime time that we turn it over to Jesus. He will guide us and keep us safe. He will allow our children to grow with love and positive self-esteem. These qualities will spill over to their children and then we will begin to have a 'Jamaica Land We Love'.

I am etc.,

WENDY SHAWN PRINCE

princewendy@hotmail.com

Lauriston

Spanish Town

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