Dear Editor,

If the current bickering and blame-shifting between rival supporters of the major political parties in Jamaica regarding the issue of government corruption is any indication of the way forward, then as we say in typical yard style, “Dawg nyam wi suppa.”

In order to begin the repair job necessary in moving forward, Jamaicans at home and abroad must first acknowledge and accept that we should unite around a common cause to set in place and abide by guidelines that place competence before party loyalty. We must also agree to work towards the establishment and strict enforcement of mechanisms to identify and punish corrupt leaders in both the public and private sectors.

We must also desist from the common practice of rumour-mongering designed to discredit persons who strive for excellence and success, and instead recognise and reward such efforts. Individuals who make the effort to promote developmental initiatves should be encouraged. Instead of castigating them for mistakes and failures, we need to learn from the mistakes made. Trying and failing through mistakes is far better than failing to try.

Jamaica is much more than a little island in the Caribbean Sea, and with more than half the nation’s population residing outside its shores, it is absolutely ridiculous to continue with a system that does not allow non-resident Jamaicans to participate in the electoral process.Jamaicans residing overseas are often more patriotic and committed to the country’s development than many living at home, and in the majority of cases they also possess skills and resources to aid in the country’s development.

In moving forward we need to design appropriate rules to enable Jamaicans living outside the country to participate in the electoral process. We need new or fresh-thinking political leadership that subscribes to and promotes the above with a view to getting buy-in from the average “Joe”.

Lloyd Stanbury

Entertainment Attorney and Consultant

Florida, USA

lloydstanbury@hotmail.com