Dear Editor,

As a former policeman carrying out duties during the 1980s, I have seen a number of negative incidents regarding politics and the different types of behaviour displayed by supporters of both major parties during election campaigns.

In those days many lives were lost and some people had a tendency “to war against” each other because of their affiliation. Although some people still harbour negative feelings towards their party opponents nowadays, I have seen a different kind of unity that is highly accepted by many.

For the past weeks leading up to nomination day, I have seen a different kind of solidarity between candidates and supporters of both parties. It makes me feel good that people are getting smarter and have a better awareness and understanding with regard to politics and respecting each other’s rights. I have seen many supporters (some of whom are couples) who support the PNP and the JLP dancing together, hugging, kissing, or having a wonderful time. This sends a strong signal that the people are getting a better understanding of politics. And I believe that it is a good thing, although some people may not like to see such unity.

I believe that the day will come when not a single drop of blood will ne shed before or after a general election, because people are getting a better understanding of politics by showing respect for each other. To my surprise, I saw some strange sights on nomination day. Apart from people showing their support by displaying different styles and fashions, I saw a goat clad in green and a donkey overdressed in orange. It was a sight as I watched a number of people throwing their support behind their candidates under the watchful eyes of the security forces.

Although I am not a political analyst, I believe that this is one time in the history of Jamaica’s politics where a few politicians will be rooted or booted from their seats. And I suspect that there will be a few surprise wins. While several candidates on both sides express confidence that they will remain in power, or a few will win new seats, let us wait and see the outcome of the December 29, 2011 election. While not asking for trouble, a question that is worth asking though would be: what if Peter Bunting, Andrew Holness and James Robertson should be defeated at the polls and Sharon Hay Webster wins for the PNP? What then? Nonetheless, whichever party wins, the PM will need to put some serious effort in trying to put more people back to work to lower crime and violence in Jamaica.

Now all we need is jobs, jobs, and more jobs.

Charlie Brown

charliebrown1004@hotmail.com