Dear Editor,

Hurricane Melissa has unearthed not only the desperation of its victims but also the deeper cracks in our national response system. Amidst this catastrophic disaster affecting mid-central to western Jamaica we are witnessing how selfishness, individualism, and disorganisation can hinder our humanity and our recovery.

In times such as these the Government must make full use of the existing political infrastructure — our parish municipalities, parish disaster committees, and the Social Development Commission (SDC). These institutions were established precisely for moments like this: to coordinate, collect vital data, and ensure the equitable and efficient distribution of relief to all affected people.

Too often we bypass these local structures, leaving Members of Parliament (MPs) to function as if they were mini-emperors controlling aid. MPs are lawmakers, not relief commanders. What is needed now is unity of purpose within each parish. MPs, regardless of political affiliation, must work hand in hand with the municipal corporations to serve the entire parish, not just their constituencies.

By strengthening these local partnerships Jamaica can move from chaos to coordination, ensuring that every family, every community, and every parish receives timely assistance and the hope to rebuild.

Dudley McLean II

dm15094@gmail.com