The Editor, Sir:

I was appalled to see the cartoon by Las May in The Gleaner of Thursday, February 1.

The illustration in question was a demeaning and disgusting caricature of our Prime Minister, which diminishes us all as Jamaicans, insults all our women, and sends a derogatory message about our Prime Minister, in particular, which is most undeserving.

To say that I am horrified by the portrayal is to put it mildly.

What made it worse for me was that its publication appeared to be no accident, for it was repeated in your paper on Saturday, February 3, adding further insult to injury!

Deserves respect

The post of Prime Minister, and our Prime Minister herself, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, deserves the respect of all Jamaicans no matter their political persuasion.

As journalists, you are certainly entitled to make critical comments; that is part of what you are expected to do, but the decision to publish such a derogatory illustration demonstrates a disrespect that is totally unacceptable and is certainly not worthy of an institution such as The Gleaner, which boasts an over 150-year history.

Caricatures are not meant to ascribe features and characteristics that do not exist. Our Prime Minister is always elegantly attired and dresses appropriate to the occasion.

The cartoon, therefore, has no relationship to the truth. I believe in the freedom of speech but we cannot use freedom of the press to abuse our women or any one.

Let us have a determination to be true to our national anthem which reminds us to show "true respect for all".

I expect no less from The Gleaner!

I am, etc.,

SAMEER YOUNIS, CD. JP

7 1/2 Constant Spring Road.

Kingston 10