THE EDITOR, Sir:
I KNOW that several people are going to come at me for this but as a Jamaican who lives in the United States I want to have a say in the running of my country.
Recently, the Minister of Education speaking at the NAJASO function held in Hartford, Connecticut, lauded the efforts of Jamaicans for not only strengthening the Jamaican community both at home and in the Diaspora but for making significant contributions to the areas of education and health in our country.
That is very good, at least we are recognised for our efforts, but if we are so important in the development of the country, how come we are not given the opportunity to vote in the elections that take place in Jamaica?
Many countries have absentee ballots, which afford their citizens living abroad the chance to vote during elections. I know this can be done in Jamaica too. Yes, Jamaicans always find a way to beat the system but they should be given the opportunity to participate in the running of Jamaica.
Another thing is the lack of enthusiasm shown towards elections in Jamaica. I was there during the last Local Government elections and somehow some people in Jamaica don't even take voting seriously. One person told me that the people don't care anymore, and I told him point blank that nobody should complain then.
I am, etc.,
STEVE DOUGLAS
kellits@aol.com
New York, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
