Andrew Holness for PM

The Editor, Sir:

If you have taken a few minutes to contemplate the dilemma of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and that of the country, then certainly you would need to ask: who within that party commands the respect of the majority of its members and that of the nation? Who should take over the reins as prime minister?

I humbly submit Andrew Holness.

What this nation needs is a changing of the guard. Although many of the old guard in the JLP may be jockeying, albeit subtly, and hoping 'dat what drap offa head wi drap pan shoulda', none of them fits the bill.

To my mind, politicians over 50 years old in both parties are tainted, jaded and ought not to be the ones to lead this country in this era. (Let me declare, in two weeks I'll be 57.)

New thinking needed

Their role should be as members of a council of elders - elders who are not only available but willing to share their experience and also to accept that there is urgent need for new thinking and radical mindset change.

While the JLP is at this crucial cross roads, the People's National Party (PNP) should not be smug. 'Tek sleep mark death'. I am recommending a similar remedy. Rather than hope for a general election, use the time to prepare and position the new, younger leaders; younger members who understand that the old way of doing things cannot be successfully employed in the 21st century.

So, Mr Holness, after serious contemplation, you have emerged as my 'candidate' at this time. At 38 years old I know some will see you as too young. I believe you may well have the confidence of the majority of JLP and that of the nation. If not at first, they'll eventually come to it.

Yes, you misspoke on a few occasions, but overall you have done a good job at the Ministry of Education and conducted yourself well as leader of government business in Gordon House. I have no inside story on you, so if you know you have skeletons in the closet say so. Because believe me, this nation is at a new place and we will find out in short order.

I am, etc.,

A CONCERNED CITIZEN

Kingston