Dear Editor,

One cannot underestimate the impasse between the governments of the USA and Jamaica over their failure to extradite Dudus, alias “the president”. Rev Al MIller hit the nail on the head in the Observer article, “We should be ashamed”. This is not so much an issue about extradition, but an issue of justice, and it took an external power – an outsider – to help us see some of our real problems concerning injustice, lack of good governance and the many flaws which exist to fight crime.

The issue with the US law firm. which supposedly was retained to represent the government’s interests in these matters, has not been fully explained. Their response is neither believable nor does it make sense. It is hard to comprehend why the government (if they stand to lose nothing), can’t put the extradition issue before the local courts and let them decide, instead of grandstanding arrogantly, risking all the political and economic repercussions.

Meanwhile, noted Jamaican DJ Buju sits in a Florida jail allegedly for dealing in drugs. Reports surfaced only last week that the Florida courts again denied him bail. It is their belief if he is released that he will find way(s) to flee to his homeland. What does this say about Jamaica fast becoming a safe haven? I’m sure the judge figured that if that happened, it would have been hopeless trying to get him extradited to face the charges.

So Audrey Marks, Paymaster founder, has been appointed Jamaica’s ambassador to Washington. She has her work cut out for sure. But who is Audrey Marks? She might be respected, but is she really experienced in foreign affairs to hold such a critical post?

Jamaicans need to start demanding efficiency, responsibility, accountability and overall good governance from elected officials. There is far too much at stake, too much arrogance and too much corruption (directly and indirectly) taking advantage of their “privileged position(s)”.

P Chin

Canada

chin_p@yahoo.com