The Editor, Sir:
There are many contradictions within the Jamaican society. Arguably, the main one is the relationship between the legitimate state authorities (Govern-ment and Opposition members) and the illegitimate state authorities (the so-called 'area dons' or 'area leaders') who are gradually gaining prominence and legitimacy in the Jamaican society.
The 'area leader' ensures or safeguards political power for the politician (for a particular constituency) by mobilising votes within the community. In return, the politicians provide some form of immunity for these 'area dons', while at the same time facilitating their transition to legitimacy by awarding them Government contracts. In that regard, many are now seemingly legitimate 'business men'.
This relationship generates a conflict of interest that eats at the very core of our society, in that the legitimate state authorities who are responsible for upholding the rule of law, find themselves in a dilemma, since they must also shield these 'criminal elements'. In essence, our elected authorities are mandated to fight crime on behalf of the Jamaican society, but at the same time offer some form of protection for the criminals to the detriment of the same society.
At least two critical questions emerge: How can we effectively fight crime in light of this
dilemma?
Where will this situation lead us in the future?
The answer to the former seems to be that of collective political will by both political parties to 'dismantle' these so-called 'garrisons', while simultaneously implementing economic and social policies that will provide opportunities and facilitate the incorporation of members of these communities fully into the mainstream society a formidable task no doubt.
In regards to the latter, it seems that if this situation is not addressed urgently, the Jamaican society may become a society that is either not worth governing or one that is virtually ungovernable a society in which lawlessness prevails or both.
Can we deliver ourselves from this 'prisoner's dilemma'? I really do hope so.
I am, etc.,
GARY LYN
gar1lynny@yahoo.com
Kingston 19
