The Editor, Sir:

The call for national unity will never be too late, as this seems to be the surest method of solving strife and murders. In my view, of all the prime minister's recently announced anti-crime plans, the solutions finally rest with the entire citizenry - in unity.

I have no problem with the strategies given to deal with all the other breaches of the law, but the one that the nation is focusing on is the instant cure for the daily killings of innocent citizens.

Anti-crime proposals are a recurring decimal, because every successive government and opposition had been doing this for umpteen years without the desired results.

Punishment

Instead, these programmes are defied by the criminals who are becoming worse in their notorious activities. The fact of the matter is, when these perpetrators are caught, tried and found guilty, the punishment handed down to them does not send the real message to others with such criminal intentions.

In any national proposals, there will be those for and against. Therefore, I am inclined to agree with one of Jamaica's human rights groups in saying that legislation won't guarantee catching criminals, in reacting to the prime minister's anti-crime plans.

The thirst for political power is a negative factor which retards growth and confidence in nation building. The political tug of war will certainly destroy unification.

Mr Editor, please permit me to ask the prime minister to use the following prayer in Parliament:

"O Lord our God, direct this nation in the ways of justice and truth. Give wisdom to all in positions of public trust and authority; that they may promote the prosperity, godliness and peace of your people everywhere. Amen."

We all must be steadfast in joining forces to crush this monster of crime and violence plaguing our beloved Jamaica.

I am, etc,

E.N. PERKINS

Mandeville