Michael Myles |The indispensable role of opposition in democracy

AS A concerned citizen and an educator, I am addressing the alarming statement attributed to Prime Minister Holness in the June 17, Gleaner article, ‘Golding slams Holness over dismissal of Opposition’s role’. The prime minister is quoted as saying, “We nuh really need an Opposition because our supporters hold us to account. In fact, our supporters are our staunchest constructive critics”. In a political climate already marked by significant voter apathy, such a statement from the nation’s leader is deeply troubling and demands clarification.

While it is hoped this comment was made “in the heat of the moment” during a party address, it fundamentally misrepresents the bedrock principles of the Westminster-Whitehall parliamentary system. Jamaica’s democracy, modelled after the British system and enshrined in the Jamaican Constitution, guarantees citizens the right to choose their government through free and fair elections. This is further supported by the fundamental democratic principle that the people rule, through a system of checks and balances on governmental power.

NARROW VIEW

Consider the implications of the prime minister’s statement. In the 2020 general election, only 724,317 of 1,913,410 eligible electors cast their votes – a mere 37.85 per cent turnout. The JLP secured 408,292 votes, representing 56.37 per cent of those cast. If the prime minister’s statement is taken seriously, it suggests that he and the JLP are only accountable to these 400,000-plus citizens. This narrow view completely disregards the remaining 1.5 million eligible voters and, by extension, the entire 2.8 million people that make up the Jamaican population. A group primarily composed of die-hard JLP supporters can hardly represent the diverse will of the entire nation.

One of the most critical checks and balances in the Jamaican system is the role of the Opposition. While the term “oppose” might suggest mere resistance, its primary function is to safeguard against the abuse of power. As the adage warns, “power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. Given Jamaica’s deeply ingrained history of tribalistic and partisan political culture, it is unrealistic to expect loyal party supporters to genuinely hold their leaders accountable. Therefore, the Opposition’s role becomes even more crucial in maintaining Jamaica’s democracy and system of governance by rigorously holding the government accountable, scrutinising legislation, and providing an essential alternative voice for the populace. The Opposition also plays a vital role in national discourse, offering alternative policy solutions and fostering healthy debate on issues critical to the nation’s progress. This consistent challenging of the Government’s agenda ensures a more comprehensive and robust decision-making process.

MORE INCLUSIVE POSITION

It is worth noting that the prime minister himself articulated a very different and more inclusive position on September 16, 2020, at the swearing-in ceremony for members of parliament. As reported by the Jamaica Information Service, he stated, “It is my intention to continue in a spirit of cooperation and in building partnerships for a prosperous Jamaica. I am very seized of the magnitude of all the challenges we face, but I am very motivated and I am very optimistic of the energy, the skill, the thoughtfulness and the commitment of the team that is assembled, not just on my side of the House, but of the entire Parliament … to overcome these challenges.” This earlier statement correctly acknowledges the importance of all voices within Parliament, including the Opposition’s.

As another election cycle approaches, it is imperative that the leaders of both major political parties urge their members, supporters, and the general population to uphold the respect, dignity, and integrity of Jamaica’s democratic systems. The system thrives on differing views and perspectives without undermining the core principle that allows the people to voice their concerns and hold their government accountable, especially through the legitimate role of the Opposition. Without a functioning Opposition, Jamaica risks veering towards an autocratic government led by tyranny.

CALL TO ACTION:

• Educate oneself and others: Understand how the system of government truly functions and the vital role the Opposition plays. Do not be swayed by divisive political rhetoric that undermines democratic principles.

• Demand accountability from leaders: Insist that political leaders uphold the tenets of democracy and respect the constitutional roles of all branches of government, including the Opposition.

• Participate actively in democracy: Overcome political apathy. Register to vote, encourage others to do so, and turn out in full force to exercise your franchise. Your vote is your voice, and it is essential for shaping Jamaica’s collective future rather than leaving it to a select few.

• Empowering people through revitalised civics education: To truly achieve the calls to action – for citizens to overcome apathy, register to vote, and actively participate in shaping the future – a crucial starting point is the reintroduction and comprehensive revamping of “civics” and related subjects within the national curriculum. While there have been recent efforts to reintroduce civics, its full potential as a tool for national development must be realised.

Michael Myles is a lecturer at the School of Business Administration at the University of Technology, Jamaica. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com