Letter of the Day | Jamaicans rise under pressure

THE EDITOR, Madam:

In science, morphogenesis describes how form and growth emerge from the interaction of internal and external forces. A baker witnesses something similar: yeast produces expanding gas within the dough, while the rigid metal pan restricts its outward movement and forces it upwards. Jamaica’s development often follows this pattern. Many of our most consequential achievements have emerged when internal advocacy has interacted with external pressure.

Consider the difficult macroeconomic reforms undertaken across successive political administrations. Internal voices, including economists, civil society, trade unions and the Economic Programme Oversight Committee, called for fiscal discipline and accountability. At the same time, the International Monetary Fund’s stringent requirements reinforced fiscal responsibility. This combination helped Jamaica achieve greater macroeconomic stability. Similarly, the Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke extradition controversy demonstrated how domestic demands for accountability and pressure from United States law enforcement eventually overcame political resistance.

This pattern surfaced again in The Gleaner’s August 27 report, ‘Senior Cops Targeted in Cocaine Probe’. Discussing international interest in the investigation, a senior law enforcement source remarked: “Our external partners are down our backs on this one.” That revealing statement raises an uncomfortable question: Why must external partners be “down our backs” before some matters receive the urgency they deserve?

The recent controversy surrounding the Class One certification of the National Stadium track provides another example. The Opposition demanded proof; the responsible ministry subsequently produced the international certificate. Yet, why stop at the track? Perhaps, if the maintenance, functionality and aesthetics of the entire Independence Park came under the scrutiny of international pressure and standards, its poor and deplorable condition would no longer exist.

Belonging to the global community has this value. International relationships can expose mediocrity, strengthen accountability and encourage adherence to higher standards. Civil society must therefore speak more consistently, the Opposition must scrutinise responsibly, and international organisations must challenge our leaders when necessary.

However, pressure must remain constructive. Jamaica’s turbulent 1970s warn us that external involvement can become destabilising. Likewise, the leaked NaRRA voice notes, allegedly discussing delay and smear tactics, demonstrate how internal opposition can become destructive rather than patriotic.

Jamaica needs ethical pressure directed towards truth, accountability and the common good. As the new academic year begins, the education stakeholders - parents, school administrators and the Ministry of Education - need to hold firm to this principle. Like dough in a pan, children rise when responsible internal and external forces enable them to spread comfortably into mediocrity.

FR DONALD CHAMBERS

frdon63@hotmail.com