The EDITOR, Sir:
"Corruption erodes the moral fibre of a country. A glance around the world will demonstrate that corrupt societies are invariably at the bottom of the ladder of progress. I assert that it is impossible to operate an efficient society on the basis of widespread corruption.
Where there is corruption there is every likelihood that public action will not necessarily be in the public interest." these are quotations from the honourable Michael Manley former Prime Minister and president of the People's National Party (PNP) more than 30 years ago.
Regarding education he says, "let us create an atmosphere in which the humblest youngster entering school feels absolutely sure that his or her effort to acquire training will be valued by the country later, and when they are finished let us be sure that we pay heed to their ideals while they are young and energetic".
many issues
These quotations sum up many of the issues facing us today and point to a possible solution all in one. These sayings of Michael Manley I find very insightful and should be revisited and acted upon particularly by the PNP with the intention of building on aspects of this worthwhile
legacy.
The sad truth is that Jamaica does not have a publication containing useful ready references and quotations of our leaders, former leaders and persons of reputable character and influence. A publication of that sort is a business opportunity while at the same time contributing to the national pride, patriotic psyche, education and real progress. How cool and irie it would be to hear the president of the United States speaking at the United Nations General Assembly quoting Sir Alexander Bustamante, Norman Washington Manley or Peter Tosh instead of George Washington.
We should quote our own when possible instead of Kant, Aristotle or Plato when making speeches, in our writings or other presentations.
I am, etc.,
MICHAEL SPENCE
micspen2@ hotmail.com
P.O. Box 630
Liguanea
