The Editor, Sir:

The Prime Minister, and by extension the Government, has announced its intention to embark on a legal 'adventure' to have Marcus Garvey's name cleared of the charge of mail fraud, committed many years ago. One has to seriously question the timing and indeed the relevance of this move.

Do we not have more urgent and pressing national issues to deal with?

To the extent that all Jamaica has recognised the work and worth of Garvey, a legacy that will live on in perpetuity, and has made him a National Hero, this settles beyond dispute his contribution to our national identity.

Colossal waste of time

Garvey's contribution has been acknowledged worldwide as seminal in the definition of the black race. It strikes me as a colossal waste of time at this stage to reopen the case.

There is no guarantee that sufficient conclusive evidence will be unearthed to form the basis of a case to overturn the conviction. Even if new evidence is found, what will convince the judges to overturn the conviction?

It is my considered opinion that this entire exercise is another popularity ploy of the PNP. It appears politically expedient to pursue this matter, given the imminence of a general election, and even if the case is not determined before the election is called, the mere fact that the Government has the matter in court is designed to give them mileage.

It should not be a priority issue at this time, and the Government would be well advised to turn their attention to the 'bread and butter' daily issues that affect the rest of us.

I am, etc.,

The Watchman

c-titus@cwjamaica.com

Via Go-Jamaica