Nelson's error
Published:Monday | July 5, 2010 | 12:00 AM
THE EDITOR, Sir:
MINISTER OF National Security Dwight Nelson should not have publicly criticised former Commis-sioner of Police Hardley Lewin, particularly in the way that he did. In verbally lashing Rear Admiral Lewin, the minister has streng-thened media and public interest in this story.
Minister Nelson should have simply responded to Admiral Lewin in this way: "I will not engage in a public battle with a former commissioner of police. Christopher Coke has been extradited and the Government is fully focused on and engaged in dealing with the monster of crime in a critical and meaningful way at this crucial time in our history. This is all I am prepared to say on the matter at this time."
Sometimes, it is better to either say nothing at all in response to a strong allegation - particularly if that allegation has been made by someone whose credibility has never been questioned - or choose one's words very diplomatically when responding.
It seems that 'foot-in-mouth disease' remains alive and well in the ruling party. They should perhaps take a page out of PJ Patterson's playbook on how to respond to harsh public criticisms and/or allegations against a member or members of the ruling party. 'Silence is golden' is the new mantra that the current Jamaica Labour Party administration should adopt when dealing with highly sensitive issues. Lest they forget, words often come back to haunt politicians, particularly at election time.
I am, etc.,
PATRICK GALLIMORE