THE EDITOR, Sir:
Living in a free society is a wonderful thing. We can choose our associates and leaders without regard for what others might think of our choice. It is only in this light that I can make sense of the JLP's recurrent selection of Mr. Seaga as leader. It is clear that they do not care what even the electorate thinks. How else does one explain their persistence with a leader who has lost four straight general elections. It has been suggested, rather unkindly I believe, that they really enjoy being in opposition and see Mr. Seaga's continuing in office as the only guarantee of that happy state. I think the PNP shares that belief.
Has a party leader anywhere else in the world lost so many elections on the trot and continued to enjoy such overwhelming support to continue as leader? The unfortunate Ian Duncan-Smith, former British Conservative Party leader, didn't even have a chance to lose an election before getting the boot. His party thought he could not lead them to victory, and out he went.
The JLP should be aware though, that it is their infatuation with the One Don that has effectively condemned the country to the PNP's ministrations. When next they pour scorn on the PNP's stewardship, they should reflect on the part they have played in making it possible. If ever there was an election that they should have won, and could have won, it was 2002. The people were more than willing to give the PNP the shove, but not enough of them could bring themselves to vote for a Seaga-led JLP. The principal reason the JLP lost was that Mr. Seaga was its leader.
One's amazement at their fixation on the man has recently gone to an even higher level. Even as his financial woes escalate, he receives yet another overwhelming endorsement of his leadership. How do they see this as enhancement of his and their electoral fortunes? What about Jamaica? They may be gluttons for punishment, but their fickleness might also be seen as a lack of care for this country. This period might contribute to an unfavourable assessment of their judgement when they next present themselves for electoral consideration.
I am, etc.,
MICHAEL NICHOLSON
Kingston 6
