Waiting in vain for the president

Scores of Jamaicans gathered at the roundabout at Sir Florizel Glasspole Boulevard last night to witness the arrival of United States President Barack Obama, but they would look in vain as the president never travelled by road to his hotel as they expected.

"We deh out here from about 4 o'clock a wait to see Obama," said Shericak who lives in Shooter's Hill.

Another resident of the same community, Apryl Williams, said, "I am happy for the visit. However, they should not have removed the vendors because they need to make a living."

Kaydian Rose, who was looking forward to see the president said, "mi did want him to spend some more time because mi wanted to carry him up to Bath Fountain."

Another woman said, "I hope he arrives and reach back safe, but we need him to make food cheap."

Students from the nearby Caribbean Maritime Institute also gathered at the roundabout shouting "Obama, Obama, Obama, in anticipation of a presidential motorcade.

Even after Obama was whisked away in the helicopter - Marine One, many refused to budge as they still expected him to drive by.

While roving the Corporate Area earlier, The Gleaner team found that the announced traffic changes were in place. The police and members of the military were diverting motorists away from the roadways that were closed ahead of Obama's visit.

Residents of Hart Lane, off Old Hope Road, who also came out with hopes of seeing the president said they were proud that he was visiting the island.

Not everyone was happy to have the US president here, though. One man who declined to give his name said he was not pleased about the visit because it would not improve life for ordinary citizens.