The Editor, Sir:

I write with great interest and somewhat amusement on reading the comments out of Washington, USA, regarding Cuba.

Cuba, under Fidel Castro, is a much more realistic country and the great Castro has succeeded where many others have failed. For example, in 1995 literacy rate was 95 per cent. This could be looked at as 100 because there is the percentage which constitutes the mentally challenged where learning cannot be facilitated.

Regardless of the so-called food rationing, there is no malnourished person in Cuba! Cuba is also the safest place to visit because the police can boast 100 per cent success in solving crime in terms of tourist protection. Your chances of being knifed, raped, carjacked, etc, are minuscule.

Better or good life

So when Americans comment on freedom and the concern for Cubans to have a better/good life, I ask of these persons: What constitutes a good life? I also ask: What is it that give people the permission to destroy themselves: Is it an overdose of democracy? I am curious 'cause I don't know! However, if this is the freedom of democracy, then it cannot be such a good thing.

As a follower of Christ, I cannot say I agree with all of Fidel's decisions nor can I say he is a perfect man, but I am obsessed with results not 'a bag a talk'. I am also impressed by intelligence, common sense and strength in human beings.

With the exception of Jesus Christ, Nelson Mandela and a few other religious men, Fidel Castro is the greatest human being who walk this Earth because he has succeeded where many have failed and ventured on paths where others have refused/failed to trod.

I am, etc.,

NCL TOMLINSON

uniquegirl5-@hotmail.com

2 Trevennion Park Road

Trevennion Towers

Kingston 5