Bruce Golding and the Seaga syndrome
published: Friday | November 28, 2003
THE EDITOR, Sir:
THANKS TO an inept PNP government and an economy that will not experience any meaningful recovery (no matter the strategies), the stage has been set for the JLP to form the next government. Although the JLP (like the PNP) have good intentions, Jamaicans will continue to wilt under the social and economic quagmire that has plagued our country for years. Those in leadership (across the public and private sectors) must bring to the table, the intellectual honesty that is needed to guide us out of the wilderness. Decision-making in the national interest cannot be made upon the foundation of partisanship and deception.
In preparing itself to take over the reins of leadership, the JLP is making sure that a Seaga-type leadership psyche persists even after he demits office. Bruce Golding was allowed to return to the Party under his terms. The JLP executive saw it fit to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Golding. Labourites need to understand that Bruce Golding needs the JLP more than the JLP needs him.
I refuse to believe that the JLP will be at a disadvantage without Bruce Golding. Others, stuck with the party through thick and thin. This pool of JLP loyalists must be fished to provide the next party leader. Bruce Golding will perpetuate the Seaga syndrome of exercising near absolute power within a democratic organisational structure. This will return the JLP to the political widerness after one term in office. The organisational pathology of having a leader who thinks that only he is capable of leading must end when Edward Seaga steps down. Its time for the JLP to embrace enlightened leadership.
Notwithstanding his type of leadership, Mr. Seaga must be honoured for his time and energy. He has worked hard and has been devoted to the people of his constituency. His spirit of devotion to his constituents must be emulated. Peace and love!
