THE EDITOR, Sir:THERE HAS been much controversy over the United States Embassy's proposed new location in the residential area on Bamboo Ave. Not only has the proposal got the go-ahead from Government, but recent media reports indicate that the KSAC, the local arm of government, has now given the green light for the work and construction to commence shortly!
I find it amazing how the Government of Jamaica at all levels, tend to be so arrogant, not even opting to debate the issues or listen to the voice of the people!
Here in Toronto, City Council elections were held recently. A major issue was the proposed building of a large bridge, linking the mainland of the city with a small airport on the popular Toronto Islands (no different from an idea to link Kingston mainland to Port Royal). The project was started by the previous Mayor and his Council, despite the disapproval of most city residents. It cost them the election, and the only candidate who opposed the construction became new Mayor by landslide. He stopped the construction immediately.
Opponents had many arguments, mostly environmental. Now our Federal elections are coming up in June, and again, the bridge is an issue as the Government has not been decisive about their support to help kill, once and for all, the city bridge idea. This goes to show how strong and effective the voice of the people can be.
Persons voted to public office should never take their positions for granted, they are accountable and responsible to the electorate who voted them to office. Arrogance and ignorance should never be entertained. The same way they are voted in, they can be easily voted out. Jamaicans must stand up for what they want an make known in no uncertain terms, what they expect from those who govern. It is time we start voting on issues, performance, competence, responsibility and accountability.
I am, etc.,
P. CHIN
chin_p@yahoo.com
Canada
