THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE RECENT by-election result in North East St Catherine sent a message from the people of the constituency that the People's National Party (PNP) is not ready for leadership. The dismally low voter turnout demonstrated that this was not an election driven by anti-government sentiments. Instead, it shows voters are tired of gimmicks and costly special elections and instead want real leadership and solutions to the crisis.

No more by-elections

Frankly, this is not the time for the PNP to be contesting elections. Portia Simpson Miller and her group must focus on how to rebuild the party. The party has lost touch with the people and lost its message.

Additionally, Jamaica doesn't need any more by-elections! It is unnecessary and costing the country too much money. Furthermore, the two pending cases will not see a change of government.

While we can agree that the restrictive rule of dual citizenship must be upheld, I believe that both parties could find common ground. How about renouncing their citizenship and paying a fine for having contested in the first place while being ineligible? The guilty member of parliament would donate his or her fine to charity. No disqualification and no by-election.

In a time of economic instability, the Government must be given a fair chance to work for the people. I think the constant distractions of these special elections will slow the government down. That's because when you're interrupted, it will take some time to get back to the task. While it is important to grade our leaders and to ensure that they are holding true to their ideals, we need to give our prime minister a chance before we condemn him.

I am, etc.,

NEVILLE CARNEGIE

USA