The Editor, Sir:

Prime MINISTER Portia Simpson Miller has been seen brandishing an abeng, the traditional Maroon horn, on the campaign trail in recent times. We take that as a signal that she draws inspiration from the only female National Heroine, Nanny of the Maroons, who showed that gender did not reduce her natural ability, and who established the tradition of strength among Jamaican women who were given minor roles in public affairs during her time.

Now, this Ashanti Princess, (referred to as Queen Nanny) by many, on learning that members of her family had been sold into slavery in Africa, came to Jamaica and set up a community of free people in the hills of Portland. By 1720, according to the British, she led the Maroons in a war of attrition against the mightier British army.

Vision

'Queen Nanny' had a vision for her people. She used the art of guerrilla warfare as well as psychological warfare in fighting against the British army. When there were hard times, due to the destruction of the fields by the enemy, the Maroons stuck together under Nanny's leadership.

One of her attributes was that of her honesty in all things, which developed trust among her people and made them willing to follow her under all circumstances.

The Rt. Excellent Nanny of the Maroons dedicated her life to keeping her people together and attending to their well being. In other words, for her it was 'service above self' as she dealt with all the needs of the people, acting as planner, judge, teacher, commander-in-chief, architect, medical advisor and spiritual leader.

Prime symbol of love

The Ashanti Princess was a prime symbol of love and service, as she was first in the heart of battle, first in treating her wounded soldiers and first in comforting the families of the fallen. The love of Nanny was that God-given quality which comes about as a natural process from associating with the Maroons.

Indeed, our only female Prime Minister must have drawn some amount of inspiration from the only official female Jamaican national heroine, as she seeks her mandate in the upcoming general election on August 27.

I am, etc.,

VALENTINE PEARSON

Cornwall Courts

Montego Bay