Beverley Anderson-Manley
DURING THE COURSE of last week there were two news reports that were revealing particularly for those of us who have been involved in the political process and who would therefore have a particular type of understanding of the changes taking place in the partisan and general political environments. These stories have to do with the report of the presentation made in the Sectoral Debate in Parliament by National Security Minister Dr. Peter Phillips, which included the announcement that the DNA law is coming this year, and the story that Matthews Lane strongman, Donald 'Zekes' Phipps has been sentenced to life in prison. Peter Phillips made his presentation on the same day that the sentence was handed down against 'Zekes'. Matthews Lane remained quiet. We are seeing the breaking down of the links between crime and politics, which many see as critical to reducing crime to tolerable levels, whatever those are.
REFLECTION
Every now and then in life it can be instructive to take a break, pause and reflect on some of the changes we see taking place. From as far back as I can remember, the police force has had inadequate mechanisms to deal with the area of intelligence. In 1976, when the society was rife with fear from criminal elements and the opinion polls showed upwards of 80 per cent support for a state of emergency, the Government delayed calling one until the police could confirm even minimal investigative and intelligence-gathering capacities.
This year, Government intends to further strengthen the country's national intelligence system by spending $350 million to enhance its technical capabilities. Kingfish operatives will tell you that their success to date is based largely on their improved capacity for intelligence gathering. Kingfish is going after the 'big ones' whether they are aligned with politicians or political parties. They are going after the 'big ones', no matter which gangs they belong to. Thirty-four of the big ones have been apprehended in recent times. We are seeing a difference.
CRIME REDUCTION
The number of homicides has declined by 21 per cent this year, compared to the same period in 2005. Our homicide rate is one of the highest in the world, so a 21 per cent may not be immediately felt by the populace. Shootings, larceny, break-ins and rapes are also down, compared to 2005. Minister Phillips himself noted that because of the continued high levels of crime, it is difficult to celebrate the reduction. In spite of this, we need to pause and recognise that any decline in crime is a sign that perhaps we are beginning to take these matters seriously.
In his speech, Minister Phillips pointed to a whole raft of legislation that the Government intends to introduce this year as part of its crime-fighting strategy. Other areas involve further amendment to the Firearm Act, a port security bill and a review of legislation to do with immigration and citizenship. Then there is the introduction of a bill to establish a national independent investigative authority to strengthen the State's ability to probe corruption, financial crimes and abuse of authority. If we can get this raft of legislation through Parliament this year, it will make a difference.
SUCCESS FACTORS
Citizens are beginning to play a critical role in giving the police information. Elements in the leadership and following of the police force are acting professionally and doing a great job. In addition, the participation of foreign cops is making a difference along with the overall support from regional and international partners. Perhaps, too, Jamaicans are simply tired of crime and colluding with criminal elements across the social classes. This change of attitude among Jamaicans will definitely make a difference.
Beverley Anderson-Manley is a political scientist, transformation coach and broadcaster. Email: BManley@kasnet.com.
