(Reader's open letter to K.D. Knight, National Security Minister)
THE EDITOR, Madam:
This is an open letter to Minister Knight.
Dear Minister Knight:
It's now very obvious that we are unable to fight the wave of crime that has been plaguing this country. Our citizens are migrating. The concept that Jamaica is an island paradise is now a myth.
Although there are laws for just about everything imaginable, it's apparent that these laws are not properly enforced. Added to that is the negative portrait of the Police Force within the society. We have become a country that is highlighted by indiscipline, lawlessness and inhumane behaviour.
Every decent and hard-working Jamaican lives in fear that he/she may be murdered. Many have indicated to you, your Ministry, and the rest of the government, the need to seek international support. Unfortunately for us, your pride and ego have been placed before the welfare of this nation.
We would like you to indicate to us what are the plans of this government to eradicate this problem. It is obvious that we need to remind you of your Ministry's Mission Statement:
"To facilitate the maintenance of Law and Order. To protect Jamaica against internal and external threats. To ensure the balance between the constitutional rights of the citizens and the interest of the state. To contain and rehabilitate offenders."
I join the many who have asked that you seek international assistance. There are those of us who will not give up, but will use whatever is available to us to get you and the rest of the government to wake up and seek the help we need. We will not tolerate an incompetent government, nor will we sit and wait for you to feel the pain that many of us are suffering, so you can decide when the time is right.
Let us stop talking about crime and do something about it!
I am etc,
LORNA BROOKS
E-mail: lmbk@hotmail.com
