THE EDITOR, Sir:

The registered voter in Jamaica is once again confronted with the recurring choice of voting for one party or the other. Both these parties are organised and dedicated to gaining control of the Government of Jamaica, and then to maintain control of Government in the interest of the parties and not in the interest of Jamaica. The voter is the means to gain control of the country, and the value of your vote expires on election day. Voters are not given a voice, choice or a system to demand accountability, once a government is voted in.

Now what if the voters were able to organise and demand that the candidates/party sign a legal and binding contract, undertaking to bring a list of specific bills by way of private member motions and/or to support all such bills once presented in the House of Representatives?

As an example of bills to demand:

1. Limit the tenure of Prime Minister to two terms.

2. Fixed date for elections, on the first Wednesday in August every four years.

3. A referendum law that can be instigated by the people that would be binding on the Government.

4. Recall legislation: the ability for a constituency to fire a Member of Parliament.

5. Constitutional Reform, to create checks and balances on the Prime Minister's powers.

Now these would be laws that would help to strengthen our nation and the people, not the 'rulers'; separate those that would be in government for the island and people of Jamaica, from those who would be in it for the wrong motives.

Jamaican voters should form a 'voters for Jamaica coalition'; it would be a better movement to support than a no-vote movement; a way to create a powerful vote and not a powerless vote; a way to get something for your vote, versus nothing for your vote. It has been said that you get the government that you deserve. Jamaicans, it's time to put the shoe on the other foot, and for a change, demand the government that we deserve. Responsibility with accountability, not arrogance!

I recommend to interested parties the League of Women Voters website www.smartvoter.org as an example of what is possible, if we want it, if ...

I am, etc.,

DAVID A. GUILFOYLE

daggcm@hotmail.com

Claremont, St. Ann