Dear Editor,

Opposition Leader Mark Golding has stated that for the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Government “prosperity is a donkey” and lamented that the JLP has a “hee-haw” concept of what it means to be prosperous.

In the realm of Jamaican politics, catchy slogans and metaphors are often employed to convey a party’s objectives. The JLP Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke, has consistently emphasised the pursuit of prosperity for all Jamaicans. However, a unique metaphor has emerged to capture the essence of its approach: Prosperity is a donkey. This analogy draws a parallel between the tireless work ethic of the donkey and the JLP’s commitment to driving economic growth and development. Let’s explore how this metaphor encapsulates the JLP’s vision and the hard work its members have demonstrated.

1) The donkey symbolises diligence: The choice of a donkey to symbolise prosperity is deliberate and significant. Donkeys are renowned for their tireless work ethic and ability to carry heavy burdens. They are dependable, reliable, and possess unwavering determination. This symbolism perfectly aligns with the JLP’s vision of fostering prosperity by relying on hard work and resilience.

2) A Government committed to progress: The JLP Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to progress and development through its policies and initiatives. It has implemented a range of measures aimed at fostering economic growth, reducing unemployment, and improving social welfare. These efforts parallel the donkey’s relentless determination to carry its load, no matter how heavy it may be.

3) Infrastructure development and economic growth: The JLP Government has recognised the importance of infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic growth. They have prioritised the construction and improvement of roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure. This commitment to infrastructure mirrors the donkey’s unyielding nature as it tirelessly carries burdens to help reach destinations that were previously inaccessible.

4) Job creation and empowerment: Recognising that prosperity necessitates employment opportunities, the JLP Government has focused on creating jobs and empowering Jamaicans to secure their financial future. Through initiatives such as skills training and empowerment programmes, they have equipped individuals with the skills and tools needed to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. This dedication to empowering citizens reflects the donkey’s perseverance and hard work.

5) Fiscal responsibility and economic stability: The JLP Government has placed a strong emphasis on fiscal responsibility and economic stability. Through prudent fiscal management, it has implemented policies that promote sustainable economic growth, attract foreign investment, and reduce public debt. This determination to maintain stability and sustainability resonates with the donkey’s unwavering commitment to carrying its load, regardless of the challenges it faces.

The metaphor “Prosperity is a donkey” effectively captures the JLP Government’s approach to governance and economic development. By likening prosperity to the hard-working nature of a donkey, the JLP emphasises the importance of diligence, perseverance, and resilience in achieving sustainable growth and progress.

Through their commitment to infrastructure development, job creation, and fiscal responsibility, the Government has proven that prosperity is not a mere aspiration but a tangible goal that requires unwavering dedication. As the donkey tirelessly carries its load, so too does the JLP work diligently to create a prosperous future for all Jamaicans.

Ryan Anderson

St Thomas

ryanalaineanderson@gmail.com