The Editor, Sir:

The continuing character assassination of Dr. the Hon Vin Lawrence in and out of Parliament smacks of a witchhunt. It appears that there are those led by Mr. Karl Samuda who can hardly contain their disappointment in the findings of the forensic audit that the money spent in construction of the luxurious Sandals Whitehouse is accounted for, that the property is making money, and fulfilling the UDC objective of driving development on the South Coast.

Further, the apparent attempt to vilify Dr. Lawrence for purchasing, at market rate, a run-down unit that nobody else wanted at Seawind, Montego Bay leads all who are fair-minded to question why talented and hard-working people should serve in any public capacity in our country. It is no wonder there is a dearth of capable persons willing to assume leadership positions. Public service does not mean a requirement to forego legal business endeavours.

Thank you, Dr. Lawrence for your contribution to so many areas of national life. You will not be the first outstanding Jamaican to leave public life under a cloud created by self serving politicians, bureaucrats, and certain iconic private sector businessmen who are displeased by not being subsidized by Government ad infinitum.

I am, etc.,

M. FRANCIS

Liguanea P.O.