THE EDITOR, Sir:
IT WAS with great amazement that I read Ian Boyne's and Arnold Bertram's articles in The Sunday Gleaner on May 22, 2005. Both articles have provoked further need for analysis and frankness about garrison politics. For the benefit of objective reading, I want to state succinctly that I am a supporter of the JLP. I have nothing personal against Arnold Bertram and I hold Ian Boyne in very high regard.
Mr. Bertram seems to be suggesting that the problem of garrison politics is a JLP phenomenon which has its genesis in Tivoli Gardens. He posited that the chief architect was Eddie Seaga who taught Bruce Golding how to replicate the model in Central St. Catherine. Not only is Mr. Bertram being dishonest and disingenuous, but he is clearly indicating to me that he is still held hostage in the old 'blame game' politics.
Yes, it is true that West Kingston is a garrison constituency with dons, drugs, guns and other criminal elements, but it is inaccurate to paint a picture that once you get rid of West Kingston, the problem of garrison politics is solved. Why is it that Mr. Bertram did not speak of the other garrison constituencies controlled by the PNP, some of which are 'walking distance' from West Kingston.
'EXPLOSIVE' COMMUNITIES
To the north of Tivoli Gardens in South St. Andrew are the 'explosive' communities of Denham Town and Rema, which are represented by Dr. Omar Davies. There is also the PNP garrison of South West St. Andrew represented by Mrs. Portia Simpson Miller which is a 'hot bed' for criminal activities. I could also draw attention to the 'wasp nest' garrisons of Dr. Peter Phillips, O.T. Williams, Victor Cummings et al, but time won't allow.
As harsh as it might sound, the PNP is guaranteed at least 13 seats in Parliament no matter what time or condition an election is held, while the JLP is guaranteed two. I dare someone from either of the parties to dispute this fact. The person does not necessarily have to be a dishonest person, just brave enough to publish the facts. Are there no brave men in the JLP or the PNP? Not even one? Not one? This is a serious indictment on our democracy and it is wrong!
Ian Boyne seems to believe that both Bruce Golding and P.J. Patterson are going to make
a difference in dismantling garrison constituencies, P.J. has already had a long stay at the wicket and he is not likely to change his batting style near the end of the innings.
Bruce has just arrived at the crease having faced a few overs in which he gave two chances. He is not likely to 'play across the line' or go for the 'cover drive' early in his innings, especially with fragile batting behind him. To be honest, I don't expect anything new and different.
I am, etc.,
ANDRE A. O. WELLINGTON
Christiana, P.O. Box 6
Manchester
