Letter of the Day | Why should we vote for you?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Open letter to all political candidates campaigning for the Jamaica general election.

As you embark on your campaign journey in the lead-up to Jamaica’s general election, we, the people, urge you to use this opportunity to engage meaningfully with the electorate. Campaigning should not merely be about political fanfare, driving in motorcades and handouts, but about addressing the real concerns of our communities, aligning them with the national vision, and outlining a clear and actionable plan that resonates with the aspirations of the people.

1. Addressing the issues affecting the constituency

Each constituency in Jamaica faces unique challenges, from inadequate infrastructure and unemployment to crime, education, and healthcare. As a candidate, we implore you to articulate a deep understanding of these issues and present tangible solutions that not only address our local concerns, but also integrate them into the broader National Development Plan, Vision 2030 Jamaica.

We ask that you make it clear:

· What are the pressing issues in your constituency?

· How do these issues align with the national agenda for growth and development?

· What specific policies or initiatives will you implement at the constituency level to contribute to national progress?

2. Communicating your action plan to the electorate

Voters deserve transparency and continuous engagement. Beyond manifestos and rallies, we need structured and accessible communication outlining your plans, progress, and accountability measures. We urge you to commit to the following:

· Hosting regular town hall meetings to engage with constituents, and also ensuring that you find a way to meet with residents of our many gated communities.

· Utilising traditional and digital media to ensure inclusivity in communication.

· Publishing clear action plans with realistic timelines and performance indicators.

· Encouraging civic participation and feedback loops to keep the community engaged.

· How do you plan to ensure that every citizen, from the youth to the elderly, has access to the information they need to make informed electoral choices?

3. Will the current USA and other international policies affect your five-year plan?

There has been a lot of US and other countries making waves and creating implications for countries like Jamaica. We urge you to:

· Address what those issues are.

· Identify and implement action plans to mitigate our exposure or capitalise on opportunities that may be open to us.

4. Why should we vote for you?

Elections are not about party loyalty alone; they are about leadership, integrity, and the ability to effect meaningful change. As a candidate, we ask that you define your value proposition:

· What qualifies you to represent the people?

· How do you differentiate yourself from your competitors?

· What commitments are you willing to make, and how will you ensure accountability?

The people of Jamaica want leaders who are committed to service, not just power. We seek representatives who will uphold the principles of good governance, who will be accessible beyond election season, and who will work tirelessly to improve the lives of their constituents.

We look forward to your responses and, more importantly, to seeing action that aligns with the promises made on the campaign trail.

CONCERNED CITIZENS OF JAMAICA