Whither Jamaica's democracy?

The Editor, Sir:

Benito Mussolini has been credited with the assertion that "democracy is beautiful in theory; in practice it is a fallacy". Conventionally defined, democracy is a form of government in which power ultimately comes from the people who are governed, whether through direct voting or through elected representatives.

What is it that elicits the cynicism of Mussolini and many others who care to be analytical, inquisitive and critical of this much-vaunted societal-power arrangement? It is the perversion, hijacking and shameful exploitation of this imperfect system of government by agendas and interests. And, while there are plausible reasons to be cynical, there is also a considered variant view that, notwithstanding its deficiencies, democracy is still a far better proposition than any other method the human race has ever tried

Jamaica has embraced democracy as its preferred system of government, and the jury is still out as to whether it has served us optimally, or even well. Arguably, the will of people has reigned supreme, notwithstanding the influence of big money on electoral outcomes. Big money is a part of the people equation, no matter how irksome the practice of 'buy-elections' may be.

governance bar

In recent times, the lowering of the governance bar has been there for all to see, whether or not one is politically tribalistic, non-partisan or genuinely disinterested. The current administration appears to be severely encumbered by the distracting weekly gaffe or crisis. Most of these remain unresolved, and the Government appears to be overwhelmed by them. The litany of stumbles have eclipsed what the government struggles to hold up as major achievements, and spin doctors have found the marketing job to be an up-hill task. Meanwhile, a more sophisticated electorate is demanding more and tolerating less, and our leaders have come to discover the following:

Persistent failure to engage and level with the people when there are myriad opportunities to do so (without being arm twisted), will dampen their willingness to listen when future attempts are made to sell rhetoric in the silly season. People don't like lies. Responses to the Manatt and Trafigura issues bear this out.

One can credibly posit that the imperfect system of democracy has a life of its own, and throughout its chequered history has demonstrated an uncanny capacity to correct its mistakes. Let the leaders, whether current or aspirant, beware!

I am, etc.,

WAT CHING

wat.ching@yahoo.com