Clueless Portia
published: Thursday | July 7, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

NOW I feel so sorry for Portia Simpson Miller, senior Cabinet minister and now a contender for the top job, hoping to become Jamaica's next Prime Minister. Seems like every time she opens her mouth, one is forced to laugh. Ironically this is not even a joke! First she says "the country needs the nurturing hand of a mother", then she says, she will "rule with advisors", when asked how she would manage leading Jamaica on the international stage as the next Prime Minister.

A recent media article "I will rule with advisors" said it all; I recall a few years ago she was also asked, "Why Portia for PM"?, her response was plain and simple, "Why not"? And that's your problem, Ms. Simpson, simplicity cannot run a country! It takes certain skills and qualities and decorum to effectively lead a nation, and represent it on the world stage!

I fear the worst with Ms. Simpson at the helm, certainly not the best the country could put forward as PM. Her competence, leadership and public service, though much appreciated, should clearly remain local. How can someone hoping to be PM, now tell the media, and the world, they will do like other world leaders, and "rule with advisors"? Clearly she doesn't have a clue!

I am, etc.,

P. CHIN

chin_p@yahoo.com

Toronto, Ontario

Canada