CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE and other forms of protests have long been used in Jamaica and elsewhere as means of effecting change for a perceived higher good whether it be a roll back in prices or to demand that some injustice be addressed.Often, the protests will take on a political flavour as opportunistic politicians try to tap into popular discontent to push their opponents further against the ropes. This is par for the course. Politicians of all persuasions have adopted this strategy when it suits them and then appeal to the national interest when it doesn't.
In recent times, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) seems to be testing the waters, making some noise about the recent hikes in bus fares and electricity rates, its representatives popping up at 'spontaneous' demonstrations, but seemingly uncertain of what its next move should be. They seem to be trashing about in the dark in search of a solution and or guidance as is the rest of the society.
Public protests by themselves, however, massive and however popular, rarely achieve anything useful or tangible, beyond allowing people to vent their anger and frustration. Almost inevitably after the road blocks, placard waving and shouting of invective, things go back to 'normal' and people carry on in a few days as if nothing happened.
If the JLP's planned protests against price hikes are to mean anything beyond assuring the society that they are still here, they will have to demonstrate some clear leadership as to what they want to achieve for the rest of the society and how we can get there.
Is the Jamaica Public Service's request for compensation for damage to its equipment legally sound but unreasonable in the percentage being demanded? Should they get anything at all? If not, why not? Is the quantum of increase granted to the Jamaica Urban Transit Company reasonable or can they operate more efficiently, disposing of the deadwood and corruption and thereby allowing commuters to enjoy a better service? How has the JLP tried, in a meaningful way beyond press releases, to help the country better understand the issues and examine the alternatives?
If the best that the Opposition JLP can offer is a knee-jerk co-opting of popular discontent in the hope of raising its political stocks, then its leaders are demonstrating that they are not yet ready to assume the reins of power.
There is solid ground on which to criticise and condemn the present administration for its handling of the economy and social infrastructure. Noisy protests will not help much to change the situation. The country is crying out for intelligent, focused leadership at all levels. The Opposition is yet to show that it is a source of inspiration in this regard.
