Letter of the Day | A leader should fear failing the people ...

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I write today not from a place of politics, but from a place of deep pain shared by many Jamaicans in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. What this nation experienced was more than physical destruction — it was a moment that exposed how unprotected and unsupported many of our citizens truly feel.

When Melissa struck, it did not discriminate. It destroyed the homes of the wealthy and the poor alike. But the painful truth is that the most vulnerable Jamaicans — the very people who needed urgent help — felt forgotten.

Prime Minister, the country watched and waited. Entire communities were left standing in flood waters. Families slept under wet, damaged roofs. Children lay on soaked mattresses. Elderly citizens struggled alone in unstable homes. For far too many, the message was clear: help was delayed, uneven, or entirely absent. This is not a personal attack — it is a national cry.

The Prime Minister publicly stated that he “fears nobody.” But leadership is not proven through bold declarations. Leadership is proven through compassionate action in moments of crisis. As the Bible reminds us:

“ To whom much is given, much is required” ( Luke 12:48),

and “ A righteous leader defends the cause of the poor” ( Proverbs 29:7).

Fearlessness is admirable.

But a leader should fear failing the people who placed their trust in him, failing the oath he swore,

and failing to uphold justice, compassion, and timely disaster response.

OBLIGATIONS

Our Constitution guarantees every Jamaican the right to security, humane treatment, and equitable protection, especially during national emergencies. The Disaster Risk Management Act requires that government responses be swift, coordinated, and effective. These are not optional guidelines — they are obligations.

Prime Minister, the stories of Hurricane Melissa are heartbreaking:

The mother who used her body to shield her child from rain blowing through a broken roof.

The elderly man sweeping out muddy water, praying someone would finally come.

The child sitting on a soaked mattress, unsure if anyone in authority remembered her community at all.

These are not headlines. They are human beings. They are Jamaicans. They are your people.

I urge our leaders to reflect deeply on this moment. Jamaica does not need a leader who stands above the people. Jamaica needs a leader who stands among them. A leader present in the devastated communities, hearing the cries firsthand, and acting swiftly to bring relief and hope.

This letter is not written to shame, but to awaken.

Not to insult, but to challenge.

Not to divide, but to demand better for the people of this country.

Prime Minister, the nation is asking you to show heart, show courage, and show that leadership is more than speeches — it is service.

For the sake of every Jamaican who suffered through Hurricane Melissa, we need you to rise to this moment.

CHOSEN BROWN

St Catherine