Dear Editor,

Recently, Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) firebrand politician Everald Warmington used expletives on the election campaign trail, encouraging Labourites to vote for the JLP in the upcoming general election, which is expected to be hotly contested, especially as the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has dignified themselves as “blood and fire Comrades”.

PNP General Secretary Dr Dayton Campbell called for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to prosecute the senior politician, as it is illegal to use bad words in an open forum, such as on a political campaign platform. Dr Campbell argued that if it were an artiste that did that, the authorities would move with alacrity to arrest him or her.

Warmington subsequently retracted his comments and apologised for his utterance. However, nobody is really surprised at his behaviour, as he often speaks candidly and raucously.

A few days later, PNP President Mark Golding ‘chipped a @#$%’ at a PNP rally, after seemingly getting frustrated with a malfunctioning microphone. In his defence, many Comrades sought to downplay his reaction, citing that it is an authentic response to what he was experiencing in the moment. In fact, even some Labourites have said that his utterance was probably the most Jamaican thing he has said.

Golding subsequently apologised for the use of the expletive. However, it was an ironic incident, given that a few days earlier he had chastised Warmington for his use of profane language.

Our politicians are public figures and will be carefully scrutinised with regard to their overall decorum. Consequently, they have to be careful of how they present themselves, not only in dress but also in speech.

Socioculturally, expletives are seen in a negative light in our country; therefore, one should be careful not to use them at political rallies, bearing in mind that children also show up at these meetings. What examples are we setting for them?

These recent incidents have led some former politicians to propose that this specific subsection of the Towns and Communities Act be amended. But why couldn’t it have been amended before? Are politicians so great and mighty that because they have been found wanting the law should change to suit them?

Although our political system does not allow us to vote directly for the head of Government, it would be interesting to see who the electorate would choose, Golding or Dr Andrew Holness.

A critical part of governance is leadership. As we enter a consequential general election, Jamaicans may want to think about the qualities demonstrated by both Golding and Holness. Who is more visionary, sober, and tactful? Who is more relatable, inspiring, and trustworthy? Who is more personable and has a commanding presence? Which of them causes you to give an attentive ear or cringe whenever he speaks? While there are many other factors to consider in running a country, these are some critical questions upon which to contemplate.

The JLP is clearly building momentum as the political campaigning intensifies. The Government has rolled out “bus pon bus” and the prime minister has been announcing numerous projects and cutting many of Damion Crawford’s daughter’s ribbons. It is anticipated that very soon Dr Holness will put on his symbolic green pair of Clarks and announce the election date.

The PNP definitely has work to put in. Perhaps it is time for it to decide on a strategic and coordinated message to convince the people. So far, it seems the party is promoting “blood and fire” instead of real, transformational policies.

Oneil Madden

maddenoniel@yahoo.com