10 reasons I would vote JLP
Dear Editor,
The issue of elections has once again surfaced in Jamaica and though the collective population has expressed high levels of “poll fatigue”, some persons in the PNP are demanding that elections be held. But do the PNP really want an election at this time or are they, in Michael Manley’s words, “opposing for opposition sake”. Further, below are the 10 main reasons I would vote JLP again:
(1) The war on crime: with the dismantling of Tivoli Gardens, the garrison represented by the prime minister and plans to continue to others, this is the boldest and most far-reaching move yet by any administration with respect to crime management and reduction.
(2) Positive macro-economic outlook: exchange and inflation rate stability, gradual reduction in interest and treasury bill rates, projected increase in Foreign Direct Investments boosted by Chinese investments in the areas of bauxite and energy.
(3) The Jamaica Debt Exchange: has reduced the impact of debt servicing on our annual budget, freeing up resources to improve infrastructure while improving Jamaica’s international credit ratings.
(4) The rebirth of agriculture: the performance of the sector has been a source of pride to all Jamaica. The sector has grown even under the extreme drought conditions and worldwide recession
(5) Enhancement and expansion of the tourism industry: the industry registered real growth in the face of the worst international recession since World War Two. The leadership of the ministry and the JTB must be commended. The minister seems to have united all stakeholders around a shared vision.
(6) Improvements in public transport: With the addition of 50 new air-conditioned buses to the existing fleet, the quality of public transportation in Jamaica is now at first-world level. Improvement and expansion of the road network from the road maintenance fund is enhanching the public transport experience.
(7) Free health care: this not only represents the fulfilment of a promise kept, it has seriously impacted the quality of life in many communities. The administration kept its promise in the face of severe economic hardships and opposition from the PNP and other stakeholders.
(8) Cost-free tuition to the secondary level: despite objections from stakeholders and the PNP, this is another promise kept by the government.
(9) The JLP: seems to be a cohesive and united unit with stable leadership.
(10) The PNP: has not offered any clear alternatives, credible or incredible.
Arnold Benedict
zherubabbel@gmail.com