Dear Editor,

We are now in the last lap before the general election. Just like in athletics, the last lap is when champions dig deep, push harder, and refuse to get complacent.

This is the moment when Jamaicans must decide whether we continue on the road of growth and progress or slip back into the failures of the past. The achievements of this Government are clear economic stability, record-low unemployment, infrastructure improvements, and bold steps in education and health. Even if you can point to just one achievement, let that be enough to remind you why your vote matters.

This is no time for complacency. The only poll that truly matters is the one on election day, and every Jamaican must approach it as if the future of the country depends on his/her single vote, because it does.

We must also confront the ugly side of politics that has resurfaced. The recent incident involving People’s National Party (PNP) Dr Alfred Dawes and his supporters blocking the prime minister and Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) supporters was nothing short of disgraceful. That is gutter politics at its worst, and Jamaicans must reject it outright.

This generation is fortunate, we can proudly wear our colours, wave our flags, and openly support our leaders without fear of victimisation or political violence. Our parents and grandparents could not do that in the 70s and 80s. We owe it to them and to ourselves to safeguard this freedom and never allow the country to return to that dark era.

Some believe they can afford to stay on the sidelines, that their lives won’t be affected by politics, but bad governance has real consequences. Poor leadership creates poor policies, and poor policies can cripple the economy. Jobs can vanish in an instant, families can struggle overnight. Neutrality does not protect you.

We must also question why the Opposition has suddenly discovered so many “ideas”. Where were these ideas when it held power? History has shown, in my opinion, that the PNP is loudest in Opposition but weakest in Government. That is why it belongs in Opposition.

This Government has proven that it not only makes plans but also delivers on them. A third term is not about politics, it is about continuity, stability, and protecting Jamaica’s future.

The last lap is here. Let us dig deep, stay focused, and make the right decision for Jamaica.

Chenae Lord

chenae.lord@yahoo.com