The Editor, Sir:

In response to Vernon Daley's article published October 31, I must agree with Mr. Daley that politicians can exploit homeless persons' plight. However, I do believe that each and every Jamaican citizen that meets the criteria for voting should have an opportunity to do so. Homeless persons who are of sound mind should be allowed to exercise their democratic rights.

If homeless persons are continually refused the right to vote we could be setting a dangerous precedent. How so? If we are to consciously or unconsciously select who votes or who does not, we must ask the question who or which group will we next deny the right to vote? In a democratic society, we should ensure that the rights as prescribed by the constitution are protected. Consequently, we can't on one hand say that some members of the society have a right to vote and others don't by virtue of them being homeless.

The fact that voters trade their votes to the benefit of partisan politics should not be a deterrent in allowing homeless persons to vote. What we need to do is to encourage persons to vote based on the issues presented by the respective parties. Homeless persons do not commit acts of fraud in elections and frauds will continue with or without homeless persons voting.

This is not an attempt to refute Mr. Daley's argument and the valid points that were raised. However, we should try to ensure that each Jamaican citizen who has the right to vote can do so. Finally, we should remember others who fought for this right.

I am, etc.,

RAYON STORER

ramzom74@yahoo.com

Sav-la-Mar

Westmoreland