Dear Editor,

In his recent budget debate contribution, Mark Golding, the leader of the Opposition, delivered a speech that, while wrapped in the cloak of compassion for the Jamaican people, ultimately lacked the substance and clarity that we desperately need in our national discourse. His proposals, though ambitious in rhetoric, are devoid of the critical components that define a credible budget presentation: a clear outline of costs and funding sources. Furthermore, much of what he proposed is not new; it is a rehash of initiatives that the current Government has already implemented or is actively pursuing.

Let’s be unequivocal: any budget proposal must be anchored in financial reality. Golding’s presentation was a parade of platitudes, filled with lofty aspirations for inclusive growth and social justice but devoid of any concrete financial framework. How much will these initiatives actually cost? Where will the funds come from? Will he resort to raising taxes, cutting essential services, or plunging us further into debt? His failure to address these fundamental questions is not just an oversight, it is a profound irresponsibility.

The Jamaican people deserve more than vague promises and empty slogans. They deserve transparency and accountability. By neglecting to provide a financial roadmap, Golding has left us with nothing but hot air — an exercise in political theatre rather than a serious plan for the future of Jamaica.

Moreover, let’s not mince words: much of what Golding is proposing is not innovative, it is a regurgitation of existing government initiatives. For instance:

1) Transportation assistance for needy students: The current Government has already allocated funds to assist needy students with transportation to school. This is not a new idea; it is a continuation of a commitment that has already been made.

2) Expansion of the school feeding programme: Through the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), the Government has made strides in expanding the school feeding programme. Golding’s insistence on this issue is not a demonstration of leadership, it is an admission that he has nothing new to offer.

3) Revamping PATH: The Government is actively revamping the PATH programme to better serve vulnerable populations. Golding’s proposals here are not groundbreaking; they are merely echoes of what is already in motion.

4) Affordable housing for young professionals: The National Housing Trust has been mandated to allocate 30 per cent of its housing projects to young professionals. This is a proactive step that Golding seems to overlook in his desperate bid for relevance.

By failing to acknowledge these existing initiatives, Golding reveals a troubling lack of awareness or, worse, a willingness to mislead the public into thinking that he is offering solutions where none exist.

Furthermore, Golding’s focus on crime and security is overshadowed by his failure to recognise the significant strides that have been made in this area. Crime rates have plummeted, with a historic reduction of 23.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. This is not just a statistic, it is a testament to effective governance and community engagement. Instead of celebrating these achievements, Golding chooses to dwell on fearmongering, presenting a narrative that ignores the realities of progress.

Golding’s budget proposals are a disappointing display of political posturing devoid of substance. His lack of financial clarity and reliance on recycled ideas demonstrate a fundamental failure in leadership. The Jamaican people deserve more than half-baked proposals masquerading as solutions. They deserve a leader who can articulate a clear vision backed by a realistic financial plan.

As we continue this budget debate, let us demand substance over sound bites. The challenges facing Jamaica are too significant for political gamesmanship. It is time for all leaders, including Golding, to step up and provide the clarity, accountability, and genuine innovation that our nation needs. Anything less is an affront to the hard-working citizens of Jamaica who seek real change and progress.

Christopher McCurdy

Kristophe60@hotmail.com