Internal party campaigning
published: Thursday | December 4, 2003

THE EDITOR, Sir:

IT WAS most alarming when it was revealed the amount of money spent on internal party campaigning for one candidate in the JLP deputy leader contest. For the politically naive among us when this amount is factored into the general election mode the figure must be grossly astounding.

Cannot our politicians devise alternative means of inspiring voter support rather than squandering this massive amount of funds? Could not these funds, or a major portion thereof, be used to establish more educational (extra-curricula); vocational or cultural activities in lower-income communities which would uplift the minds of the residents, giving them the capability of making rational decisions? Could not a major portion of these funds be used to establish productive or small business enterprises in these communities, targeting idle youth and getting them gainfully occupied as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour, as well as for the positive upliftment of themselves and their communities? Should not a priority be accorded to enhancing the intellectual capability of these individuals so that upliftment and brotherhood replace hostile behavioural patterns?

There is a tremendous amount of human resources in these communities waiting to be motivated, developed and nurtured to make positive contributions to nation-building. This positive approach is more to be desired than the hostility taking place between rival political groupings which is almost primitive and serves political interests rather than cultural advancement.

I am, etc.,

ALFONSO F. JACQUES

Padmore

St. Andrew