Dear Editor,

The second political debate, which focused on the economy, happened on Tuesday evening. Suffice to say, it was much better that the one on social issues.

As was expected, Jamaicans both at home and in the Diaspora weighed in on who they thought won and who was the most outstanding debater. It is interesting but not surprising to see the metrics viewers use to assess the debates. Some focus on tone — being loud, vulgar, and witty — another group places emphasis on facts and statistics, while others concentrate on policies and feasibility. Still, some are diehards and incapable of providing a valuable critique of the party they support.

What is also interesting to observe is the so-called ‘independents’ who are being exposed during this election season. It is quite weird because everyone has the right to support whichever party he or she chooses. Their discourse comes off as hypocritical, and many of them speak with condescension and disrespect to others.

During the economic debate the People’s National Party’s (PNP) Kisha Anderson asked Jamaicans if their lives were better off today compared to previous years — more than likely under her party’s Administration — in light of the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) book of achievements and constant rhetoric that the macroeconomy has been doing well.

The question was a good rhetorical one; it caused the listeners to critically assess their current state of financial health, given the high cost of living in the country.

The JLP has repeatedly reminded the populous of the economic gains the country has achieved, but are the people feeling it?

Some would want others to feel as though nothing has been done over the past nine years under the JLP. As much as I lived outside of Jamaica for the greater part of the JLP’s two-term tenure since 2016, I have seen several infrastructural developments taking place. There have also been gains in the digitisation of many public services.

Additionally, despite the chaos, debates, and disappointments that occurred due to the Government’s compensation restructuring exercise, there are many who are taking home significantly more net salaries.

Comrades would want people to believe that only supporters of the JLP benefited from handsome salary increases. Many are living better, but because it is somewhat taboo to discuss salaries in Jamaica, people often have modest conversations. I have friends and colleagues who have voluntarily provided information about their new salaries and have expressed how grateful they are for the increase. Several private sector employees have switched over to the public sector because salaries are even more competitive.

Does it mean that all is well? Of course not! Many teachers and other public service workers would do more with another bump in their remuneration. People are tired of living hand-to-mouth, even though there are many who spend unwisely.

Is the outgoing Administration ignorant of that? Not according to Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness. He is aware that life is hard for many. He is cognisant that good roads, water, and housing are essentials for many Jamaicans. He and his party have acknowledged that a third term is not guaranteed, but they are hoping to be given the confidence of the people to continue the growth and development agenda. Will Jamaica allow them, though, or has time really come? Dr Holness is very likeable, but that alone cannot secure political victory.

The PNP has proposed a $3.5-million income tax threshold should it form the next Government. The JLP has promised to reduce the income tax rate to 15 per cent, down from 25 per cent.

What is clear is that both political parties are cognisant that Jamaicans, especially the average working class, need more disposable income. Like many others, income tax eats up a significant portion of my salary. It could actually go towards my monthly mortgage.

September 3 draweth nigh. In a few days we will see which party will form the next Government to ease the financial burden off the citizens.

Oneil Madden

Maddenoniel@yahoo.com