LETTER OF THE DAY - Stop playing politics
Published:Friday | January 21, 2011 | 12:00 AM
THE EDITOR, Sir:
Masquerading their proposals as efforts to uplift the working and lower classes from dependence on government has proven to be the main reason why Jamaicans do not trust either political party.
We always hear both leaders articulate a bold vision for restoring our nation's middle class and productive sector, but are unwilling to challenge their own members to stop putting politics before the people's prosperity.
The last three years have been so politically toxic and has proven that political gamesmanship is what obtains in Parliament. Speeches, accusations and political undermining will not suffice to bring results to our nation. While both parties are focused on presenting themselves as the best option for Jamaica, criminals backed by special interests are undertaking a coordinated attack, rooted at the state and local level on the predominantly working class. This attack could accelerate the end of the working class as we have known it.
Legislatures, for years, have continued to sit idly by and watch as the safety and prosperity of our nation's productive workforce has been whittled away. Some even go as far as to scapegoat those in the middle and working classes for economic and social problems which are actually facilitated by those at leadership level. Recently, both parties have been very smart, tactically, by framing the debate around these issues. We can only hope that people will not fall for their misdirection.
Nationally, politicians keep talking about reducing crime, budget constraints and job creation; their arguments are more about rhetoric than real action. Not only is this talk disingenuous, but two-faced, as this talk is nothing more than to seize power and continue the rot that is synonymous with each party. In truth, we already know what we will be hearing six months or a year from now. They tried to build Jamaica but are being prevented by the opposing party.
Political neglect
Rather than seeking to bring everyone up to a standard to attain a decent life and having relative security, it seems politicians are so focused on bringing down those who still have jobs that afford people hope and a dignified retirement.
Time and again, these policies and political battles have not led to trickle-down prosperity, but have taken away gains made by average Jamaicans and given them to criminals and big businesses at the very top. We draw a line in the sand with politicians and demand that the prime minister lead the way in recognising the crisis of the middle and working class.
I am, etc.,
IVA ROLLE
Nassau, Bahamas