The Editor, Sir:

Jamaica's political/constitutional privileges and rights can be equated somewhat with the Apprenticeship System that followed the abolition of slavery.

Legislation was enacted about 1834 abolishing slavery; but the provisions did not apply until 1838. Abolition of slavery was replaced with subtle camouflage, 'Phase 1' of the Apprentice System. These two developments, emancipation and apprenticeship, were replicated, in type, since 1944, as 'Phase II'. In 1944, adult suffrage abolished that socio-political/economic aspect of slavery that had prohibited one man with one vote for all citizens.

Unlike some former British colonial territories, Jamaica, having gained independence and therefore having moved from 'Phase 2' (slavery by apprenticeship and colonialism), has unfortunately, self-imposed a similar type of apprenticeship, though less brutal, namely: political tribalism, garrison constituencies, donmanship and special favours etc.

Sophistication

'Phase 3' of this type of apprenticeship, however, is firmly rooted in 'sacrosanct' legal terms and subtleties which obscure as gloss for sophistication that effectively deny political and constitutional rights, privileges and respect entitled Jamaicans, to freely elect their prime minister. It is, rather, the few executives from the party victorious in a general election, who determine for all Jamaicans, the person to be prime minister! This is also simulated, as 'Phase 3' with respect to the election of mayors.

Our particular constitutional appendix, camouflaged in appren-ticeship as political independence, should, after 64 years since 1944, have been retired at 2004; for it is overdue to undergo emergency surgery, having burst as an excruciating appendicitis for us all.

I am, etc.,

N. BRENT HARRIS

Lot 449

Charlemont Housing Scheme

Linstead, St Catherine