SOUTH FLORIDA – Regardless of, or because of the tight finish in Thursday’s (Feb. 25th) elections in Jamaica, something new is happening.
The people of Jamaica, both those at home and abroad, but most especially the two major political parties need to accept that this might be a new day in Jamaican politics.
In the not too distant past, each political party was given, more or less two terms to govern, then they were booted out. Not so, it would appear these days.
The JLP administration of 2007 ended after what was essentially one term, in later 2011. The PNP administration of 2011 ended in February 2016. And if the closeness of the finish in Thursday’s vote is any indication, parties should no longer expect great big majorities in members of parliament going forward.
Social Commentator, Martin Henry says, “These are probably good developments for democracy in Jamaica”. Governments he believes will have to get work done in the five year term and with a certain amount of cooperation too, with seat margins being so narrow.
It has also been noted that more times than not, parties are not voted into office as they are voted out. It is hoped that if all Jamaicans, not just the politicians learnt this lesson, there would be additional hope for Jamaica.
Voice your opinion on the “Open Line” with Winston Barnes daily on WAVS 1170AM or listen on-line http://wavs1170.com/
Photo Credit: Leroy “Dreamy” Riley
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