Dear Editor,

A recent video in which Steve Graham, Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) councillor for the Old Harbour Central Division, was seen stumbling repeatedly to deliver a speech at a primary school graduation has called into question the need for politicians to demonstrate a minimum standard of competency in specific areas.

Communication skills, though not the easiest to master, are of paramount importance for public servants and figures, as they often have to engage in public discourse and represent their party or organisation at various intervals.

Truthfully, anyone can stumble over a few words, due to anxiety or unfamiliarity, but Graham’s delivery on the day in question is of concern, especially because his speech did not include any long and problematic words.

The Star on July 11 reported that Graham’s wife, Rosemeade, was upset by the nasty comments levelled at her husband, claiming that the increased $5-million salary that councillors now receive under the Government’s revised compensation package is not worth the vitriol that her husband has had to endure since the incident. She argued, “If I have a choice, I would take my husband out of politics.” Her displeasure is due to the fact that her husband has demonstrated over and over that he has the capacity to lead and represent his constituents. Consequently, the public should be less harsh on him.

According to Rosemeade, her husband has lost weight and feels stressed. Understandably, the comments would have caused him embarrassment and could affect his self-esteem bitterly. However, it is one of the disadvantages that comes with being a public figure. People are even more critical of politicians, especially given the hike in salaries that they have received.

English poet Alexander Pope said, “To err is human.” We do not master everything; we all have limitations. However, there is a certain level of expectation that comes with certain offices. I wonder what went through the graduating class’s head when they saw a political leader deliver such a speech.

If it were a teacher or the principal who read in a manner similar to Graham, both parents and the public would be at his/her neck, questioning their authority as a trained professional and calling for performance-based pay.

What are the criteria to become a politician? It is clear that some fundamental requirements are needed and personal and professional development must be ongoing.

On the matter of councillors, what is happening in the People’s National Party’s (PNP) camp of councillors in Western Westmoreland? Three councillors resigned due to Ian Hayles being selected to be the Member of Parliament candidate for the next general election. The recent poll showed the PNP leading the JLP and Opposition Leader Mark Golding is maintaining that the time has come. But the PNP is still having a hard time uniting its party. Will they be in better shape to take Jamaica from the Holness Administration, which will soon begin to turn up the campaign heat even hotter than the temperatures we are currently experiencing?

Oneil Madden

maddenoniel@yahoo.com