Dear Editor,

In recent weeks we have seen several acts that resemble the dark political days of the 70s and 80s, where the nation hung on the edges of a civil war. Let us as a people and a nation condemn all forms of political intimidation, ‘goonery’, and the infringement of one’s constitutional right to freedom of association and freedom of speech.

Political parties and their leadership must cease and desist from making inflammatory statements that may incite supporters to commit acts of violence. Since the 1993 General Election, Jamaica has become a more mature nation as it relates to accommodating divergent views in the political landscape. Our political leaders P J Patterson, Edward Seaga, Portia Simpson Miller, Bruce Golding, and Andrew Holness have all contributed in some way to the easing of political tension. Recent happenings on the political front, which have caused the political ombudsman to intervene, are not good for an election that is supposed to be free and fair, and free from fear.

If the truth be told, as a nation we are actually running after a bus that has already left the nation, unable to seriously look at political reform, political education, and a true and honest vetting of the candidates that wish to represent us at the local and national levels. Mainstream media must become involved in these processes to look seriously at candidates and to improve the attitude of the electorate in accommodating divergent political views.

The candidates themselves must also vocally encourage their supporters to conduct themselves in a civil way, as oftentimes those involved in situations of political violence and intimidation are operatives “defending the boss”.

Come on electorate and the media; there needs to be a paradigm shift! Let this upcoming election be one of issues and of the party that is best able to effectively deal with those issues.

Fernandez “Bingy” Smith

fgeesmith@yahoo.com