Letter of the Day | Pray and vote for Jamaica’s future

THE EDITOR, Madam:

As Jamaica approaches another general election, I have spoken with some Christians who openly declare that voting is a waste of time. They have dismissed the entire democratic process as an exercise in futility, often repeating the line, “No better herring, no better barrel”. That attitude is deeply troubling, especially as the voter turnout in the last election was abysmally low, a clear sign of growing voter apathy.

Some Christians have gone further to indicate that they will pray, but not vote. While prayer is essential, prayer and voting must be twinned. Prayer seeks God’s guidance and favour, but voting is the action that helps shape the direction of our nation. Faith without works is ineffective, dead! (James 2:17). To pray for Jamaica yet refuse to participate in its governance is to neglect the stewardship God has entrusted to us.

Part of the reason for this growing apathy is the perception of corruption. Jamaica’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index score remains at 44/100, while our global ranking slipped to 73 out of 180 countries. This reinforces the public sentiment that elections do little to bring change. Citizens also feel that their interests are not always prioritised in governmental decisions, as if the machinery of the state often serves special interest groups over the common good.

Our election season is also marred by acrimony and indecent behaviour, from disparaging graffiti to the destruction of party paraphernalia and caustic language on political platforms. This regressive conduct does not reflect the democratic maturity that Jamaica boasts about. To our political leaders I say, “Cease and desist!” Rein in your supporters and lead with civility. Healthy, vigorous campaigning is welcomed, but if it turns citizens away from the ballot box, it harms our democracy.

Scripture calls us to care about the direction of our nation. In Jeremiah 29:7, God instructed His people to “seek the peace and prosperity of the city… and pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Likewise, Proverbs 29:2 reminds us: “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.” Silence and inaction only strengthen the forces of corruption and complacency.

I, therefore, appeal to every believer to pray for our nation, call for integrity in public life, and let your voice be heard at the ballot box. To refuse to participate is to abdicate a sacred opportunity to influence the direction of Jamaica for the glory of God and the good of its people.

REV DR ROY NOTICE

Administrative Bishop

New Testament Church of God – Jamaica