Dear Editor,

The saying that “truth is stranger than fiction” has never been truer than recent events are proving. Let’s have a look at the past:

*Michael Manley, whose flirtation and perceived direction towards communism was overturned despite laudable public programmes which depleted the country’s coffers, later changed his image and political direction in time for the election of 1989 and was once again returned as PM of Jamaica until his retirement.

*Edward Seaga rescued the country in the 8os, made many creative and innovative plans and programmes which put the country on a path for growth and development despite a serious recession and a destructive hurricane. But he was voted out in 1989. Later, as Leader of the Opposition, he called on then Commissioner of Police Trevor McMillian to remove 13 people from his constituency whom he knew to be dangerous and who included Christopher “Dudus” Coke. This courageous act which put Mr Seaga’s political future and life at risk was rewarded by inaction. The PNP was then government and the national security minister was, if I am not mistaken, Peter Phillips. Mr Seaga was never returned to power in the election of 1997 and in fact had great upheavals in his party (Gangs of 5 and 7) and loss of his party chairman Bruce Golding.These were Mr Seaga’s rewards.

* PJ Patterson succeeded Michael Manley as PM despite the Shell waiver scandal. He resigned saying “I shall return”, which he did and ruled uninterrupted for 15-plus years.

* Bruce Golding’s career covered many political twists and turns, including starting a third party, the NDM, which contested the 1997 elections. They did not win one seat, including the one which Mr Golding contested, but did take away needed votes from his past and future party – some say resulting in the loss for the JLP of that crucial election. We can only guess at this stage that if that election had been won by the JLP under Mr Seaga’s leadership, he might have helped to curb some of the excesses in borrowing and spending.

Jamaicans can draw their own conclusions and decide if this holds lessons for the future.

Beverly Tomlin

bevtomlin@gmail.com