LETTER OF THE DAY: The path of reform for a better Jamaica

The Editor, Sir:

A basic summary of our political history is one characterised by successive governments who have consistently brainwashed and exploited the poor and ignorant, who have been systematically kept that way. It is a history that has seen governments colluding with the rich and powerful, while alienating the bourgeoisie; hence, the high incidence of industrial actions among the our teachers, nurses and security forces.

Now that we have started on a path of reform, we must carry on well beyond the geography of Tivoli, and the person of Dudus. But it is of no small significance that we are starting where we are, for somehow there is the sense that the successful completion of this task will give us the impetus, and moral authority to move across the island.

As we move, however, we must not just tear down, we must simultaneously rebuild, or we may find ourselves right back to square one. The role of the don must now become the role of the political representative, whose job is not to merely issue handouts, but to truly empower the community members.

This course of change must channel us to a redefinition of powers, which will make politicians punishable for violations. It is noteworthy that things did not get to where they are now because the existing framework of law necessarily produced what now is, but simply that people are immoral and have enjoyed insulation from prosecution. Hence, the critical change that must take place is making the politician more accountable to the citizenry, and that within the law, they may be prosecuted and duly punished for their misdeeds.

Another important area of change has to be the issue of transparency in campaign fund-raising of political parties. Perhaps funds should not go directly to parties, but should be channelled through an independent body, such as a PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Civic bodies such as Jamaicans for Justice, chambers of commerce, social and professional clubs and associations, must become more intentional and proactive in seeking to garner the populace into deliberate nation-building thinking and actions. As far as possible, these bodies need to move away from the elitism and exclusivism that they are known for, and embrace the idea that it will make for a better standard of living in the country.

I am, etc.,

Charles Evans

charles.evans@ncu.edu.jm