The Editor, Sir:

The incessant call by the JLP for early elections highlights without a shadow of a doubt that the JLP has not the patience to wait for the constitutional due date, which is no later than October 2007, and not surprisingly, seeing that it has been in the political wilderness for the past 17 years. However, such a call must be accompanied with concrete projections as to why we, the Jamaican populace, ought to entrust that party with state power.

Making noise about transforming the Jamaican society if a JLP government is elected can't be taken as gospel. Jamaicans have heard better music than the sankey that is currently being tuned. I can recall a former elderly politician echoing similar sentiments when he told the Jamaican populace, "A gwine mek money jingle inna yuh packet," a saying that was greeted with much fanfare, but its fulfilment never saw the light of day. What we need are specifics. Thus, the following questions must be asked of the JLP and its leader:

1. How will they address the macroeconomic model, so that there will be a reversal of the current trend of 'bang-belly' economic growth?

2. How will they address the meltdown that is affecting the world economy and, of course, Jamaica's?

3. How will they make Jamaica attractive so that investor confidence will be strengthened?

4. How will the budget deficit be tackled?

5. How will they address the issue of CARICOM, its single market and economy and regional integration?

6. Where will the money be sourced to cater for the needs of the public sector wage bill?

7. How and in what ambits will they transform the education system?

8. What strategies will be employed to fight the hideous monster of crime?

9. What assurance can they give to young professionals like me, that after returning home from medical school, we can have the security of a job?

It can't be that we just go replacing one party with another without knowing the tenets on which their government will be formed; with such an attitude our country will never achieve that level of growth and development, where the highest potential of our people can be explored. The time is now when our political leaders are scrutinised and their words weighed, so that they can be judged accordingly if their action is not coherent with what was said.

Instead of threats of bangarang and social disorder if the Prime Minister does not accede to their demand, the JLP ought to outline to us through policy documents, press conferences, and a 21st century vision of plans and projection, why they are deserving of forming the next government. I'd suggest to the JLP and its cadre of leaders to rethink their strategy and not become too consumed with the aspiration for political power, that they undermine the well-being of the Jamaican state, but articulate in clear terms how they intend to improve the lot of each and every Jamaican, so that we can walk with our heads high both at home and abroad. This indeed may be your moment, but for the good of Jamaica, land we love, don't squander it on the altar of political expedience.

I am, etc.,

MARVIN GAYE WILLIAMS

Margaye98@yahoo.com

Universidad Del Plata

Argentina