THE EDITOR, Sir:
PORTIA SIMPSON Miller is now Prime Minister of Jamaica and many are euphoric while most are optimistic.
The JLP, slightly worried, started a number of advertisments on radio and the present catch phrase is: 'New driver, same rickety old bus'.
They may be right, but most of Jamaica is not listening right now and perhaps rightly so. It is only fair that we give the new Prime Minister a chance. Maybe she will not only get a new conductor, but a brand new mechanic as well.
The departure of some former ministers of their own volition assists her greatly, as she cannot now be accused of being vindictive.
Her first loyalty is to the people of Jamaica, and the delegates of her party who had unwavering faith in her. The smile on my face for her ascension is as bright as the frown when I think of P.J. Patterson's tenure. To say I am delighted is mild.
If what she says about running her campaign with her own funds and the 'kindness of strangers' (to quote Tennesse Williams) is true, then the private sector need not be repaid.
This gives her the opportunity to lower interest rates and introduce social policies alongside economic policies, without two much fear of the business class; programmes that will benefit the majority of Jamaicans.
Maybe today is not only a rebirth for Jamaica, but also for the PNP. Maybe it can in fact become the People's National Party. The way has been cleared for Mrs. Miller to truly lead.
I am, etc.,
HAROLD MALCOLM
bruce_26@hotmail.com
University of the
West Indies
Faculty of Law, Cave Hill,
St. Michael, Barbados
Via Go-Jamaica
