Dear Editor,

Sharon Hay Webster has come under increasing pressure to resign from parliament in the long-standing dual-citizenship controversy. She has clearly outlined the special circumstances of her dual-citizenship status, and in addition, the reasons for reversing her decision to cancel her American citizenship.

In August 2009 when she went to the American Embassy to cancel her citizenship, the dual-citizenship controversy, court battles and rulings (resulting in two resignations from parliament and subsequent by-elections) had been ongoing for almost two years. The parliamentarians who were unseated were shown to be dual citizens at the time of their nominations. She would have been well aware of those developments and that, at some point, she would also be targeted to defend her status.

The decision to acquire or cancel any citizenship is a major one. Hay Webster is a seasoned politician and legislator. She would have had more than enough time to consider, ponder and plan her defence and strategies. There were more than enough competent legal experts in the United States, Jamaica and within her own party who could have advised or represented her on this crucial constitutional issue. It was more than surprising that she acted initially without legal advice, based on her own admission.

I have no reason to doubt the sincerity and veracity of Hay Webster’s story, neither her love nor commitment to the development of this country and her passion for representational politics. However, in accepting all these, one cannot help but conclude that her initial decision to cancel her American citizenship, perhaps without first getting legal advice on such a very important matter, was a serious lapse in judgement.

Leadership at all times requires clear, focused and strategic thinking. There should be no less from our elected representatives in parliament.

Daive R Facey

dr.Facey@gmail.com