THE EDITOR, Sir:I DO believe, that knowing when and when not to use firmness and unflinching authority is one of the most critical criteria for effective leadership.
This type of leadership, whether popular or unpopular, requires an understanding of social pressures, especially in an environment where the alleged leader does not opt to hide or become a prisoner shackled by lawlessness and anarchy.
There is brazen evidence all around us of a 'let it happen first before I deal with it' culture and this seems to be fodder for those chomping at the bits to wallow in the troughs of criminality and social disobedience.
ACCEPTANCE AND RESENTMENT
The manner in which the lawful and political authorisation is being used to handle and solve the problems created by social unrest and decadence is spelling (and reading) the difference between acceptance and resentment of regulated authority and effective governance.
Once upon a time (not such a long time) the zones of indifference to law, order and disorder were almost confined to the plains of the city. Rural folks could brag about the tranquility and peace in their rural environment, but the hills are no longer joyful as there are now no boundaries to lawlessness and mayhem.
ROADBLOCKS
From those seeking 'justice' to those justifying and dispensing their own brand of justice, we are all now getting indirectly caught up in the tide of road-blocking, vigilante killings and 'fire-bunning'.
It should not be and cannot be business as usual when citizens choose to become judge and executioner and then gloat about their illegal deeds on national television, much to the amusement and support of those with like minds.
This type of behaviour has been flourishing because whenever and wherever there is an absence of good governance and effective leadership, the mob rules supreme. It was pathetic to see and hear citizens instructing a policeman to "leave town before sunset".
A leader should lead and some of us expect good leadership, whether it is from the Prime Minister, the parliamentarian, the parson or the police.
There are now too many existing situations where delegation of their assigned responsibilities is not enough to get the job done. Our social expectation of those elected and selected to lead can only be evaluated on results and not promises.
Citizens are now less tolerant with leadership ineffectiveness and questionable performance. Those aspiring for leadership positions should take heed and note that leadership is not only about winning a popularity contest. They must talk the talk and walk the walk; we should expect nothing less.
I am, etc.,
SONIA CHRISTIE
Stewart Town, Trelawny
