THE EDITOR, Sir:I HAVE BEEN fortunate to hear bits and pieces of the news around Edward Seaga's departure, and likewise the pre-emption of a change in the leadership of the People's National Party (PNP). There was also change of guard at the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).
I believe that this is the most significant opportunity for Jamaica to make a fresh start in all spheres of its nation-building endeavours since independence. While Mr. Seaga must be lauded for his contribution to Jamaica's development, I want to take a comment he made one step further.
Mr. Seaga said in an interview, it is time for members of the Opposition to put the party's interest before their own. I must say that in my opinion this statement was bereft of the singular purpose of the Opposition's existence.
Jamaica needs a sincere Opposition in government. Jamaica is riddled with corruption at all levels and yet the Opposition, elected and unelected, maintain a sense of reticence that sends a very negative message to the electorate.
Why don't you speak up? People get the feeling that all politicians are up to the same old tricks, they're just waiting for their turn.
It is obvious that the image of Jamaican politics only comes to life when there is an election on the horizon. After the party's victory the Opposition only sparsely punctuates the political debate until the next election is around the corner.
This begs the question about the Opposition's commitment, trustworthiness, work ethic and the general improvement in the standard of living for people of this country.
Crime remains a problem in Jamaica. We are frustrated by the imbalance with which the hand of the law functions. For example, Air Jamaica where is the transparency that is required of the Government and the persistence of the Opposition in seeking accountability?
It is one thing to protect both foreign and local investors and their investment; however this should never come at the expense of insulting the Jamaican sense of justice for all.
The Opposition must not be perceived as soft on white collar crime as the country stands to lose far more in wealth from such deeds compared to that of the common man whom the police are trying to keep in line.
The most impressive way for the Opposition to get the electorate on board is to make Jamaica's problems their problems. The Opposition should not tire of holding the Government to account with the help of those feeling the pinch.
A new start is possible in Jamaica and the Opposition should put politics on the backburner and relate to the nation at all levels.
I am, etc.,
GARNETT WAITE
garnett.waite@gmail.com
Kensington , Welcome Hall P.O.
St. James
Via Go-Jamaica
