Dear Editor,

There comes a time when a nation must pause and ask itself some serious questions about the standards of leadership it is prepared to accept.

Recent developments in Jamaica’s Parliament, particularly the increasingly heated exchanges among our elected representatives, should cause every well-thinking Jamaican to reflect. The confrontation on Tuesday, November 3, which reportedly came dangerously close to becoming physical, is another reminder that the dignity and decorum traditionally associated with our Parliament must not be taken for granted.

Parliament is more than a building, a political arena, or a place where opposing parties compete to advance their respective positions. It is an institution of democratic representation, where the business of the people must be conducted with maturity, responsibility, discipline, and mutual respect.

Disagreement is an essential feature of democracy. Robust debate, scrutiny, and even passionate arguments have their place in parliamentary proceedings. However, disagreement must never become an excuse for disrespect, intimidation, personal attacks, or physical confrontation.

Our elected representatives must understand that the manner in which they conduct themselves is as important as the positions they defend. What example are we setting for the nation?

Jamaica continues to grapple with crime, violence, domestic disputes, and inter-personal conflicts. We have repeatedly appealed to citizens to exercise restraint, resolve disagreements peacefully, and seek constructive ways of addressing their differences. When those entrusted with national leadership appear unable to model these principles, what message are we sending to our young people, families, and communities?

Unresolved domestic and inter-personal disputes can escalate when communication breaks down, anger is left unchecked, and peaceful avenues for resolution are ignored. Such conflicts can have devastating consequences for families and communities. We cannot afford to normalise hostility as an acceptable way of resolving disagreements.

The scriptures remind us in James 1:19-20 that everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. Proverbs 15:1 further reminds us that, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” These are timeless principles for human relationships, conflict resolution, and responsible leadership.

I therefore appeal to our elected officials, on both sides of the political divide, to remember the privilege and responsibility of public service. The people elected them to represent their interests, debate national issues, formulate sound policies, provide accountability, and advance the common good.

Let us return to the standards of parliamentary conduct, dignity, and respect that Jamaicans rightly expect of their representatives. Let the Speaker’s office be respected, let opposing views be heard, and let established parliamentary rules and procedures govern the conduct of debate. Accountability must be exercised without hostility, and authority must be demonstrated without arrogance.

The business of Parliament must be the business of the people, not the business of personal egos.

Our children are watching. Our young people are watching. Our communities are watching. The very citizens whom we encourage to settle disputes peacefully are also watching how their leaders settle theirs.

This is a moment for reflection, restraint, and a renewed commitment to responsible leadership. Let our Parliament demonstrate that strength is not measured by the loudness of one’s voice, the sharpness of one’s insults, or the willingness to confront another person. True leadership is demonstrated through self-control, respect, wisdom, and the ability to disagree without becoming disagreeable.

Jamaica deserves better. Our democracy deserves better. And the people who entrusted these offices to our elected representatives deserve better.

May the dignity of Parliament return, and may the business of serving Jamaica once again take centre stage.

Rev Dr. Stenneth Davis

betheldean@gmail.com