Letter of the Day | Political ombudsman needed

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Imagine a school without a principal, a church without a pastor, and a summer camp without a manager. Chaos, confusion and, indeed, mayhem, would ensue.

Likewise, the absence of a political ombudsman, given Jamaica’s irreverent, competitive, and combative political arena, historically and presently, is like putting a bull in a China shop, driving down a steep hill with no brakes, or operating a liquor store without a functioning fire extinguisher.

Moreover, during election season, when campaigns, on both sides of the political arena, are pumped up, the presence of a political ombudsman is even more critical.

To this end, my choice for the job of political ombudsman is a man who commands great respect, nationally, is a strong and dedicated Christian, has a solid résumé and a proven track record of honesty, integrity and outstanding leadership skills, as reflected and proven, via his successful leadership of numerous important organisations in Jamaica, including the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC), and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).

Lt Commander John McFarlane, OD, JP, is exactly the kind of person needed to fill the role of political ombudsman.

PATRICK GALLIMORE