Dear Editor,

The result of the Portland Eastern by-election is now written in history, and political pundits are expressing various opinions as to the reasons for the win and loss. These include the popularity and effectiveness of the leaders of both parties.

While there may be some truth in such conclusions, I think there is very little to ponder, as the result rests totally on the choices made by the electorate on the day.

Both candidates must be praised for helping to reduce the growing apathy which seems to have affected the national electorate over recent years, as voter turnout was over 50 per cent on the day.

It is natural for the winner, Ann-Marie Vaz, to be elated and to crow a bit on being successful, but Damion Crawford should consider himself ‘runner-up’, rather than loser, and should not be despondent. To lose by 306 after polling over 9,000 votes is an achievement and he must not run away. What comes next is what counts; the extent to which promises can be kept and how much the real needs and expectations of the people can be satisfied will be defining factors.

I congratulate both candidates on their showing, and wish happiness and prosperity for all members of the constituency.

Ronald R Fagan

Kingston 5

ronniefagan@gmail.com