The Editor, Sir:

The general election is now over and while the results are considered preliminary at this time, we must all agree that the people of Jamaica have spoken. They have spoken in a manner not heard of since the first election under universal adult suffrage in 1944. But, are the politicians listening - are they hearing the message being sent?

A lot of persons expected a keenly contested election, with one of the two parties winning by a small majority. But even while one pollster was predicting - based on empirical evidence - that it was almost too close to call, not even the politicians paid much attention to this.

While we await the official results emanating from the recounts, our leaders, in particular, must make a concerted effort to effectively manage the period of uncertainty. To a large extent, Jamaicans take their cue from their leaders, and it is for this reason why I believe that it is critical that our leaders act responsibly at this time. If there is a time that our leaders must walk the talk it is now. They must make a conscious effort to manage their utterances and control their emotions. Jamaica should be at the forefront and not partisan politics and every speech should be punctuated by this.

This is a time when we need all Jamaicans to bond together to build Jamaica. Our political process has remained tribalistic for far too long and this may be the fundamental message being sent by the electorate. This is a time for cooperation. For both leaders it should be a time of conciliation and not a time to lay blame at any system or process. The win/loss must be accepted with humility and this is where the effectiveness of leaders should emerge.

The business of the country has been on 'hold' for too long a period. And, while we appreciate the fact that some of the results will be challenged, the hiatus cannot continue indefinitely. While we await the official announcements, the responsibility must be on the shoulders of both leaders not only to provide the guidance and effective leadership required at this time, but also to lessen or defuse any potential tensions that may arise.

I am, etc.,

PAT BIGNALL

wilbig@cwjamaica.com