Letter of the Day | What next after the state of emergency?

An open letter to the Prime Minister.

 

THE EDITOR, Sir:

In light of the ending of the state of emergency across the island, the big question on the lips of many is, what next?

It is no secret that many persons have benefited significantly from the states of public emergency. As a citizen of St James now living in Hanover, the effects of the state of emergency are far-reaching. Many have spoken about been able to sleep at nights, while others have spoken about the harsh treatment and unlawful detention. It’s no doubt that the state of emergency has impacted many areas across Jamaica. Here are 10 points that I believe should be the way forward.

1. Invest heavily in the social ­intervention programme.

2. Restore discipline in schools, workplaces and on the roads through education, curriculum development, training and ­consistent advertising.

3. Put more funding in the security forces and in the training in law enforcement.

4. Implementation of a single taskforce for crime prevention, suppression and alleviation. This taskforce should be separate and apart from the police force.

5. Have a gun amnesty, allowing all users of illegal firearms to surrender guns without prosecution.

6. Have a values and attitudes programme implemented throughout schools, workplaces, hospitals and government ­facilities. This lack of values and attitudes has led to the harsh and hostile climate in the country.

7. Making justice available to all on a speedily and effective basis. This unavailability of ­justice has led to frustration and reoffending.

FORMALISE LANDS

8. Address the issue of land ­acquisition. Many informal ­settlements are high producers of crime. Formalising lands will have a significant impact on the reduction of crime.

9. Implement a day for prayer and fasting each year for the nation.

10. Be consistent with the message on the approach to crime and ­violence. Both the Opposition and the Government need to be strategic about crime ­prevention. The message must be the same, irrespective of which administration is in power.

I am of the firm conviction that Jamaica can be a better place if we all work together. Put politics aside, put tribalism aside, put self aside and do your part in restoring law and order. Can Jamaica be rid of crime and violence after the end of state of emergencies?

Christopher Johnson

Minister of Religion

Hanover