THE EDITOR, Sir:
I READ a Friday, September 13 Jamaica Gleaner online article entitled: "JLP MPs walk out of committee - To protest move by Gov't on Oath of Allegiance" By Vernon Daley, Staff Reporter.
In principle, I do believe that the government should seek public support before changing elements of the Jamaican Constitution. In this case I think that it's about time that the Jamaican Government take concrete steps to assert the nation's full Independence from Britain.
This business of pledging allegiance to the Queen of England is an activity that no independent nation should perpetuate. In Jamaica's case, it's like showing appreciation and acknowledgement to Britain for granting her 400 years of slavery then subsequent permission to have some semblance of political freedom.
It is this kind of subservience or neo-colonial mentality that contributes to Britain and the United States displaying such contemptuous arrogance in matters of international affairs.
What's wrong with Jamaica pledging allegiance to its own rather than to her former slave master? What's there to consult about?
I commend the PM for adopting this position.
I am etc.,
DONALD S. STEWART
tradeways@sprint.ca
Montreal, Canada
Via Go-Jamaica
