The Editor, Sir:

The Gleaner headline, yesterday read, 'Kern wept'. As the story of the Cuban 'free' bulbs continues to unravel, we might see persons being arrested and charged.

Minister Clive Mullings stated that "this is not a question of irregularities; this raises questions of fraud". My God, my God. The scandals of the People's National Party (PNP) have followed it from government to opposition. Is it not fair to assert that with the PNP, there is no shortage of scandals?

Caught in the middle of all this is the young MP, Kern Spencer. I cannot say that I am not moved with compassion for this young politician. This story, however, is not really about compassion, it's much more than that.

Why did PNP members keep Kern from responding? Is it that they fear that if he opened his mouth the truth will pop out? Why did Mr. Pickersgill say, "Kern, Kern sit down"? This is a serious matter. Serious enough for Kern to weep, but obviously not serious enough for Paulwell to be daunted. Paulwell is no stranger to matters of this kind. By the way, where was Paulwell? Something is very wrong.

Victim of PNP wiles

I believe Kern has fallen victim to the wiles of the PNP. As it relates to the scandal, could it be that he was just taking instructions (from his elders)? Could it be that he was assured immunity to any backlash that might occur on the premise that the PNP would have returned to government? Could it be that a promise of a Cabinet position was enough motivation?

In the end, Kern is going to be as much a victim of the PNP as the Jamaican people. I, therefore, encourage Kern to talk. CALL NAMES. Speak the truth and nothing but the truth. In the same breath, let this be a lesson for all political representatives, "Don't ramp wid Jamaican people money."

I am, etc.,

DAREN S. LARMOND

Optilearn1@yahoo.com