The Editor, Sir:

More often than not, political leaders are asked to rein in their supporters and commit to keeping the peace. This suggests that political representatives have control over their supporters and can dictate to them. In my view political thugs are not fighting on behalf of the political representatives. They have their own agenda. They are fighting either to keep or obtain benefits for themselves. These benefits may be real or imagined. Let us not forget that the general election is about who will control the resources of this country.

Having seen the leadership race, in both political parties, and the resignation of the former leaders of both the JLP and PNP, Jamaicans have had quite an education in politicking. Both these leaders have been showered with praises from both sides of the Houses of Parliament. Listening to the flowery speeches flowing freely from the lips of people who seemed bitter enemies was an eye-opener. All the 'demons' that the former Leader of the Opposition seemed to have been bedevilled with were exorcised and he became an angel of light. The former leader of the PNP was commended for the civility that he brought to the election process. Being cunning and unassuming to a fault was no longer a vice. Members of Parliament became one big happy family. It is no secret that members of both sides of the House close ranks when it suits them.

Let us not underestimate the electorate, especially those who resort to violence. They are not blind. They are fighting for their piece of the pie. In order to stop the political violence, our political representatives have to do more than talk and have peace marches. I heard one political candidate declare that he is not interested in anyone promoting violence on his behalf. Even that is not enough.

Those who control the resources of this country must find a way to distribute the 'scarce benefits and spoils' equitably so that hostility can at least be minimised among the tribes so that they can cease to be perpetually at war.

I am, etc.,

WINNIE ANDERSON-BROWN

winab@cwjamaica.com