By Courtney Miller, ContributorHAVING LISTENED to and subsequently watched on television Bruce Golding's speech at the launch of his campaign for leadership of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) some interesting observations were made. First, it was interesting to note the dramatic shift from the customary political hype, empty rhetoric and noise so loud that you as a listener would have difficulty in grasping its content.
This shift from the expected was so quietly intense that it left certain media persons and self-proclaimed political commentators so confused that their comments on the speech ranged from missed opportunity, too long and boring, to too political. So shallow was their thinking that little or no consideration was given to the content of the speech.
TOO POLITICAL
That a politician, speaking at a political meeting, on political issues can be described as being too political is beyond me. The shift in the tone and delivery of Mr. Golding's speech could be likened to a cricket match with certain media persons being the batsmen. They (the media commentators) were caught off guard and befuddled by the quiet but intensely effective spin bowling that had suddenly been introduced. Unable to understand what to them were now complex deliveries, their comments sounded confused.
The speech may not have left Labourites and party supporters intoxicated as some media persons seemed to have expected. Instead, it provided them with sufficient food for deep thought and reflection; his speech was indeed light-years ahead of what we have come to expect from politicians in their speeches.
SPEAKING DOWN TO THE MASSES
With regard to the occasion, there were a number of other observations that made the nature of this political meeting different from the usual. For example, there was the absence of a political platform with selected persons pitched thereon looking down or perhaps speaking down to the masses. First world technology, organisation and application appeared to have been used substantially.
Attendance by Paul Burke who intends to contest the leadership of the PNP and his comments on the hospitable treatment afforded him spoke volumes.
In terms of content, the speech sought to address a number of fundamental issues requiring immediate attention in order to set the stage for uniting and mobilising the party.
The graciousness expressed to Mr. Seaga and by extension, those loyal to him should go a long way to quiet concerns and heal wounds.
The willingness by Golding to openly discuss the issue of his leaving the party to form the NDM should assist in purging the bitterness that may still exist among Labourites and NDM supporters.
NEXT GOVERNMENT
His criticisms of the PNP were adequate to demonstrate to Labourites and the Jamaican public that their main issues and concerns are understood. In respect of the party, the five areas highlighted, indicated an understanding of what needs to be done if it is to garner enough support to form the next government.
Finally, the vision for the country enunciated, may be easily embraced by Jamaicans when explained further. It is early days yet for Mr. Golding and a lot more will have to be done if he is to convince the delegates and subsequently the Jamaican people in sufficient numbers to become Prime Minister.
PREVIEW
However if this launch was a preview of the type and style of leadership he will exhibit then this may be the beginning of a much more serious, meaningful and sober approach to politics practised in Jamaica.
Courtney Miller describes himself as a Political Observer of 14 Charlton Road, Kingston 8.
