THE EDITOR, Sir:

ANY PARLIAMENTARIAN, at any level of the political totem pole, who is consistently honest, consistently hard-working, charming and constantly places the national interest above party interest, will, all things being equal, do well at the polls. Politicians who are always dishonest, consistently perform poorly, are not very likeable and who place party interest above the national interest will do poorly at the polls.

The Jamaican people, whether from the lower, middle or upper classes, can tell the difference between an honourable politician and a dishonourable one. The loyalty of non-diehard members of the electorate can changeover time based upon the performance of a Member of Parliament from either party.

Today's electorate are far more sophisticated that in a bygone era and can spot the genuine article from a fake when they see it. Any politician who "appears too good to be true", usually is.

I am, etc.,

PATRICK A. GALLIMORE

pagalley@hotmail.com

Kingston

Via Go-Jamaica