Crime and the Prime Minister's legacy THE EDITOR, Sir: THIS IS an open letter to the Prime Minister: I WAS born in 1962, Norman Manley died in 1969. I was 7 years old, and vaguely remembered the funeral procession. I am very familiar with Michael Manley. In my office, the only pictures on the wall are those of Norman and Michael Manley, and I say thanks for the Manleys every day. I do this, not because I am political, but because for me, these men left a legacy that impacts everything I do. This legacy is the field of Education. Daddy Manley for the Common Entrance, and Michael Manley for his attempt at free education - which gave me a chance to enter high school, since we were dirt poor and would not have been able to afford it. It was up to me to determine the rest of the Journey. I appreciate the Manleys because they showed their concern. Mr Prime Minister, what is the legacy you will leave the next generation? I may be wrong, but if I were given the task today to document that legacy, Sir, I would have to leave the page blank, because I am looking for something original and fundamental that has a far reaching impact on the lives of Jamaicans. You are alive, and you still have the biggest chance to be the greatest of them all. I am talking about taking swift and harsh steps to rid Jamaica of the illegal guns in the island. For once, make a strong decision, and act upon it without fear or favour. I can assure you that 99.9 per cent of Jamaicans will support you, if you at least attempt to deal with this issue NOW. Always remember, you were elected by the people of Jamaica, to act in the best interest of Jamaica... and although you may not succeed, let history say, 'You at least tried'. The children of Jamaica, more than anyone else, need your help, to help them see adulthood. You have a chance to do it before you make your exit. Remember, very few have been given this chance. Future generations will hear about and maybe see (I hope not) the vicious cycle of violence in the nation..and if an attempt to correct this problem is made, your pictures will also be hanging on their walls in the years to come. So I beg of you, stop the talking and use your office, the army, the police and the law-abiding citizens to rid the society of this menace. Leave no stones unturned, no place unsearched. History will vindicate you. I am etc., VEROL THOMPSON sonic-planet@mindspring.com Via Go-Jamaica
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