Time to discard Socialist nostalgia, Delano
Dear Editor,
Although, I do not hold much affinity for former Prime Minister Edward Seaga, I think it is full time for our so-called thinkers to give him his worth as a nation builder.
I have been following the ongoing debate between Delano Franklyn and Ken Jones on Eddie Seaga’s contribution to the development of Jamaica. Delano Franklyn, a confessed Socialist, is of the view that Seaga’s contribution to Jamaica’s development is at best minimal. On the other hand, Ken Jones believes that Seaga has made more than a lasting contribution to the development of Jamaica, for which he should be applauded.
I must say that I wholeheartedly agree with Ken. Edward Seaga and the JLP Administration of the 1980s saved Jamaica from the economic disaster brought about by the Manley government of the 1970s.
One will recall how the economic growth and development of Jamaica were stymied by the reckless Socialist policies pursued by the then PNP government of the 1970s. Seaga made a valiant effort at recovery in the 80s, but his efforts were to be cut short in 1989 when he was thrown out of office by the Jamaican people.
Delano Franklyn seems to hold a vendetta against Seaga. It is my observation that he is always quick to brush aside Eddie Seaga’s contributions to the development of Jamaica, and is generally contemptuous of those who seem to heap praise on Seaga. It must be noted that Seaga’s contribution to the development of Jamaica is undeniable, and will long be spoken of. He has created an enduring legacy, reflected in the institutions founded under his leadership.
While I did not support his leadership style and deem it a negative against him, the positive role that he played in attempting to place Jamaica among the developed countries of the western world is unquestionable.
Delano Franklyn, instead of continuing to assert negative opinions about Seaga, should reflect and try to make a positive impact on Jamaica’s development. It is full time now for him to divorce himself from the nostalgic views of the Manley era of the 70s, and join those of us who are thinking up big ideas about how to advance Jamaica’s development.
Kelroy Johns
Biloxi, Missisippi
