The Editor, Sir:

The silence on the part of the government on what is happening in Venezuela is deafening and unfortunate. Since Venezuela is a trading partner with Jamaica, it is imperative that the government in no uncertain terms let President Hugo Chávez know that his actions pose a serious threat to democracy.

By not renewing the licence of the country's oldest private television station (a critic of Chávez's govern-ment) is further indication that Chávez will stop at nothing in his blatant attack on democracy.

In a recent speech, Chávez was quoted as saying: "That television station (RCTV) became a threat to the country so I decided not to renew the licence because it's my responsibility."

Chávez said he is democratising the airwaves by turning RCTV's signal over to a public service channel. How can silencing of the voice of the press be interpreted as "democratizing the airwaves"?

It is clear that Chávez's move is a flagrant effort to silence the voice of those who oppose his policies.

This is one foreign policy matter that the Simpson Miller administration needs to publicly address. As a country that values democracy and press freedom, we must send a clear message that the government of Jamaica will not do business with any country whose government does not respect democracy and freedom of the press.

If we are going to continue doing business with Venezuela, the government must pass a resolution condemning the decision of Chávez's government. Madame Prime Minister, let your voice be heard in this matter now.

I am, etc.,

WINSTON MILLS

winston.mills@dowjones.com

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania