The Editor, Sir:

The history of Jamaica, from its inception of Independence to its present stage, is one of those brutal and haunting stories from the black world - a people's long and painful struggle for (self-actualisation), derailed at various stages of its history and now thwarted by a burgeoning crime problem which threatens to render it a failed state.

The People's National Party, whose founder was the late National Hero Norman Washington Manley, held state power close to 20 years - almost half the time which ancient Israel took through Sinai's wilderness. During its tenure, it did do things aimed at improving the lot of citizens. The Achilles heel of the party, however, was its failure to transmit real, positive values to a nation wallowing in vice.

Decency and justice

There was very little honour, decency and justice. This grave omission has spurred a generation with its face not to the rising sun, but to setting sun. Hence, a whole generation of young Jamaicans have been mentioned, indirectly, along the broad road of destruction which eventually ends in unbridled criminality. This was not intentional, but it is time to make amends.

Once to every man and nation comes the moment to decide and I think that now is the time for the People's National Party to join wholeheartedly with the Govern-ment to tame the monster of crime. The Government should use the same advice which Jehovah gave to ancient Israel when it engaged in combat. This can be summed up in two sentences. Take no spoils! Leave no bleating sheep!

I am, etc.,

P. LOGAN

Duncans PO

Trelawny