THE EDITOR, Sir:
Permit me to use this medium to join the Prime Minister in warning both the leadership aspirants and the delegates of the People's National Party to be careful about how they conduct themselves in the upcoming race to elect a leader for the party consequent on Mr. Patterson's retirement.
To the leadership aspirants I say be careful how you seek to distance yourselves from the decisions of the Government, mainly those taken by Cabinet of which three of the aspirants are a part. When Dr. Peter Phillips, for example, criticises the economic policies of the Government, he is clearly criticising a decision of which he was a part and even if he was in disagreement with what was a majority decision, he ought to respect the principle of collective responsibility. At the same time, I would not hold Mr. Phillips totally accountable for the failure to solve the crime problem and he certainly seems to feel that he is not to be called to answer for this failure.
personal performance
The point is that a candidate should not seek to influence the public, mainly the delegates, by unfair tearing down of other candidates. Such an act in itself reflects badly on the candidate. The selection of the leader should take into account, among other criteria, the personal performance of the candidate in his/her ministry and in his/her constituency, the potential of the candidate to set the vision for the party and the government, the candidate's potential to elicit support among the Members of Parliament and to engender team spirit within Cabinet, the ability of the contender to represent our proud country overseas including at international institutions and to offer leadership within certain spheres.
be careful
To the delegates I say be careful in your choice. Vote with your head and not with your heart. If the PNP and this country could be run by someone who possesses only those soft skills which are attributed to Mrs. Simpson Miller, then she would be the right choice. However, delegates should know that that is not enough. Our prospects would be worse if delegates allow themselves to be wooed by gifts or promises of money. Delegates, be aware of the awesome responsibility that you owe to this country and to the party.
None of the candidates is perfect for the job. If we could unite all the great qualities each one has we could be close to finding that perfect fit. In the circumstances, we must consider the needs of the party and the country and select the best candidate.
I am, etc.,
REBECCA CLARKE
Constant Spring Road
Kingston 10
