Dear Editor,

I wish to add my voice to the call by two social commentators, Yvonne McCalla Sobers and Kevin O’Brien Chang, that there ought to be a live debate among the contenders vying for the position of JLP party leader – most important, Jamaica’s ninth prime minister. Indeed, the Deputy Prime Minister and aspiring Prime Minister Dr Ken Baugh has called for a debate of the issues facing the country and for the use of that platform to present their curricula vitae to the people.

As we approach our 50th anniversary, it is crucial for Jamiaca to have a post-Independence prime minister. There has been much debate that age cannot be the only criterion for selecting the next prime minister, and I agree. But in four years the young Andrew Holness has demonstrated excellent leadership qualities in his dual role as education minister and leader of government business.

Holness has always made himself available to the press on any issue. He has never used a press conference at the education ministry to speak about political matters; when the House descends into the gutter, he is always the one to add some level of civility and he is one of the few politicians whose character is not tainted. If Andrew does take over as prime minister, I would recommend that he appoint Dr Baugh as his deputy, to add a blend of youth, seniority and experience. Dr Baugh should prepare Chris Tufton to take up that position if they are successful in 2012.

Andrew King

abking020@gmail.com