Dear Editor,

I write this letter for all Jamaicans, both at home and abroad, with a feeling of deep regret and remorse for a reggae artiste known and loved by many worldwide. Our brother, Mark Myrie (Buju Banton), was found guilty yesterday on three of four charges laid against him in court in Tampa, Florida. It is very sad that the verdict came back guilty, as many of us prayed for a not-guilty verdict to be returned by the jury. But such is destiny. Now is the time we should unite and stand behind our brother. Buju, we all love you, the fight is not yet over.

With all that has happened in the struggle with Buju, we hope that if there is an appeal, all Jamaicans would stand behind him, both with faith and funds. This way he would know how much we love him. Jamaicans, let us all unite, as any other nation would do, and stand with our black brother. This should also serve as a lesson to all Jamaicans involved in wrongdoing to step away now. Jamaica, let us all join hands and hearts for a brighter day for Buju.

Christopher Smith

christafari_smith@yahoo.com