Political cultism vs patriotism

Suzanne Leslie-Bailey, Contributor

BEING A bell-ringing Labourite or a heady comrade, as well as a Jamaican, seems to be a precarious balancing act in Jamaica's political landscape. Many people who are willing to 'bell the cat' or put their 'head on the block' for either of the political parties are often confronted with that uneasy choice between party and country.

It is expected that one must display an undying loyalty for one's political party. Contrastingly, if a personal relationship breaks down and no longer provides the happiness that it should, then either person can end it and go in search of the fulfilment that they seek. It is their right to do so, and people will understand this. A banker or media personality can move on to a competing bank or media house that offers them the professional satisfaction that they seek - it is their right to do so. We see it played out daily in the private sector, and people understand this. With politics, this is not so easily understood; and this is where the cultic nature of politics emerges. Just listen to the obsessive and vociferous declarations, such as "Mi a Labourite/ Comrade 'til mi dead. Nah switch!"

Blind loyalty

Even if the political party no longer fulfils an individual, to go in search of a competing political organisation which may better serve one's ambitions and bridges the gap between personal values and party, is euphemistically frowned upon and viewed as opportunism. It is the right of anyone to choose to walk through a door of opportunity that has been opened, or to 'knock on doors' seeking the best and most fulfilling opportunities for their happiness and development. Why should politics be any different and held to this dangerous standard? I am not discounting the need for loyalty to any organisation, but let us not blur the lines that separate a healthy display of loyalty from blind cultism.

I am firm in my support of Jamaica Labour Party Leader Andrew Holness, and my stance is that he represents the best hope for Jamaica; but this has not blurred my admiration (which I vocalise) of the current prime minister's resilience and warmth, although, admittedly, I am frustrated with her less-than-impressive leadership style.

This scourge of political cultism has been nurtured and allowed to take root by our nation's political leaders over the years. Political cultism reared its ugly head in the 'flag fiasco' early in the People's National Party administration, as well as the debacle (he said, she said) that led up to the Jamaica 50 celebrations. What should have been a sweet occasion from the get-go hit a sour note as politicians engaged in the usual political wrangling and one-upmanship. Again, regrettably, at such a momentous time in our nation's life, political cultism trumped patriotism!

I have heard persons admit that the member of parliament of the political party to which they are opposed is the better candidate, but they are reluctant to vote for that candidate, as it translates into a vote for the opposing party - political cultism trumps patriotism!

I am now going to tread some dangerous waters, but I proceed bravely. Maybe the time has come for Jamaicans, in exercising their constitutional right to vote, to dispassionately and rationally assess the merits of each political candidate; and vote accordingly, rewarding the better candidate with their vote. No longer should politicians be able to find comfort in the 'bosoms' of slavish supporters, snuggle up and fall asleep on the job. A 'vote of no-confidence' would serve to jolt them from their slumber!

Politicians, people to blame

In recent times, I have heard powerful private-sector leaders trouncing politicians for their populist approach to governance and laying blame at their feet for the stagnation of the Jamaican economy and society over the years. Some senior outgoing public-sector leaders have joined that chorus, although less stridently, but their concurrence is clear.

The reason for this very sad state of affairs is simple: politicians give pride of place to political expediency while our nation's interests are left to languish on the 'back burner.' Political cultism trumps patriotism!

However, the politicians are not the only ones guilty of this offence. Many Jamaicans also allow their overzealous support for a political party to take precedence over what is good and right for our beloved nation. Take a peek at social media. What should be intelligent and objective discussions on national issues often descend into politically prejudiced and blatantly disrespectful comments and name-calling - just some of the negative effects of political cultism.

I urge all of us Jamaicans to let the flame of patriotism burn bright and to put out the flame of political cultism!

Suzanne Leslie-Bailey is former research coordinator to then Prime Minister Bruce Golding. Send comments to columns@gleanerjm.com or svclb@msn.com.