On failed politicians
published: Friday | February 24, 2006

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I HAVE been a watcher of politics and political parties in Jamaica since 1944. It was not necessary in those early years for MHRs (as they were then) or Legislative Councillors to sign any agreement as to conduct. The rules were unwritten and politics was conducted in a civilised fashion. Where one person abused another from a political platform, there was usually opprobrium heaped on that person. Remember when the late Wills O'Gilvie Isaacs said "The Bishop soak us", (a reference to the late Bishop John J. McEleny)? There was much shaking of heads and wagging of fingers at Wills O until he apologised.

What makes the Political Ombudsman believe that there will be any more 'toeing the line' with a non-binding agreement? After all, we have the legislated Integrity Law which is given scant attention. I fear that when persons who now practise politics as a profession face the hustings where their 'bread' is at stake, everything is fair game, including corruption.

What the voters must be concerned about is the success or failure aspirants have made of their lives and any occupation in which they were or are involved before they face the polls. Currently, we have failed politicians still hanging on the sidelines of politics as a potential feeding trough.

I am, etc.,

MIDDLETON WILSON

islandman10645492@aol.com

Miami, Florida

Via Go-Jamaica