While everyone acknowledges the right of the Prime Minister to appoint his Cabinet, the removal of the Honourable Derrick Smith, M.P., from the Ministry of National Security seems to be a panic-stricken response to the worsening crime situation.  This response seems to be the governmentʼs efforts to disguise the fact that there is no clear strategic plan to deal with the causes of crime and the enhancement of the countryʼs security environment. 

The security of the nation goes far beyond the simple task of policing our streets and neighbourhoods; it requires a sustained security environment consistent with the norms of a civilized society.  To date, we have witnessed a significant increase in the levels of crime in most categories while there has been no comprehensive statement from the Golding Administration regarding the way forward.

What we need from the government is not so much a shuffling of the deck, but a clear strategic vision that can give the country some assurance that there is a design and a road map to enhance the nationʼs security.

The governmentʼs response to this present situation has given rise to concerns as to whether there will be a knee-jerk reaction to every point of crises in the future.  Right now, however, Prime Minister Golding needs to give us all a sense of his overall strategy in combating this evil and rescuing Jamaica .   

Contact:

People's National Party
89 Old Hope Road,
Kgn 6, Jamaica
Tel: (876) 978-1337
Email:

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