The Editor, Sir:

Recently, there have been many claims by the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and some their supporters in Jamaica that democracy on the island would be threatened if the ruling PNP were to win the next election. Is this really true? While the JLP has every right to fight bare knuckles to win the upcoming elections, it should be won based on real solutions, not rhetoric designed to deflect from real issues. If an election was held and the PNP should win, then the blame would be on the political strategy employed or otherwise be a rejection by most of the electorate. This would in no way indicate a one-party state, as would be the norm in countries where democracy is suffocated by state machinery.

Therefore, I would suggest to the Opposition that they establish a clear difference in their message on the issues that have broad political appeal. In this regard they should push for reforms in the economy and government that have both positive long- and short-term socio-economic impact that ordinary Jamaicans can identify with. These programmes should encompass, but not be limited to continuing to improve education, health and security. Along with those areas, they seemed to have forgotten about local government reform - an issue that most Jamaicans would possibly embrace if delivered to them as a necessary and beneficial change.

The Opposition could also capitalise on recent calls from the private sector to provide an enhanced business environment to promote entrepreneurship, a mandatory requirement if Jamaica is seriously contemplating providing opportunities for those who are economically disenfranchised. The result of a more vibrant economy through increased productivity is the possibility of increased wealth creation. The struggle in Jamaica must be for economic freedom as it does a person no good to have any other freedom if he/she cannot live and provide a dignified life for the family.

Government alone of anycolour or ideology cannot provide all the necessary solutions to the many ingrained societal problems in Jamaica. However, through leadership and effective policies, it can provide the private sector the necessary tools to help more people into becoming productive citizens.

A clear vision of Jamaica over the next decade is a much more effective political message than innuendoes about losing our long-held democratic values. The interest of Jamaica (all of us) must be foremost, above our own partisan interests. Therefore, both political parties should make it a requisite to keep the conversation and tone of campaigning focused on advocating what in their mind is the best way forward. Let the electorate decide whose message resonates best on election day through the democratic process.

I am, etc.,

VINTON M. GRANT

Washington, D.C.