Dear Editor,

It must have been a meagre news day on Sunday that caused your esteemed journal to make front-page headlines of Mr Michael Lorne’s wishful thinking. Despite his legal training, it appears that a sudden onset of political ambition has made him forgetful of the fact that a person born in Jamaica cannot lose his citizenship unless by personal application via a legal process.

The act of swearing allegiance to a foreign country does not deprive a Jamaican of citizenship, because this country by law approves and often encourages its people to become dual citizens. What is more disturbing than his lapse of knowledge or memory is Mr Lorne’s use of the venerable name and reputation of National Hero Marcus Garvey in the attempt to draw attention to his lost cause. Although but a minor defender of the faith of Garveyism, I desire to protest and to question whether it is morally acceptable for anyone, in any way, to lay unsubstantiated claims to the endorsement of a hero, long dead and of course unable to defend his ideals through representational politics. Mr Garvey’s works and worth are recorded for the guidance and inspiration of generations. The UNIA , Liberty Hall and faithful individuals have been encouraging this with vigour, respect, and little thought of personal gain. Better that Mr Lorne should run in that direction rather than towards the elusive Gordon House.

Ken Jones

Kingston 8

kensjones2002@yahoo.com