Over the years I have been amazed at how Jamaicans sit and praise the politicians of both parties, yet their lives have not improved, in fact it has been the opposite! Nepotism runs through both parties and it seems as if to serve your country in high places, you have to be somewhat connected genetically. The Lisa Hanna connection is just one of many. Let me see if I can offer a few.
1. Abuthnot Gallimore – Neville Gallimore – Andrew Gallimore
2. Ernest Peart – Dean and Michael Peart
3. Paul and Angella Burke (husband and wife) – Cousin to James Robertson
4. Donald Buchanan brings in his 2 nephews, one drops dead, and the other has been handed a constituency on a platter (Luther Buchanan)
5. Bruce Golding and his BROTHER IN LAW Pearnel Charles
6. Peter Phillips brings in his son Michael Phillips
7. Douglas Vaz’s son Daryl Vaz
8. Oldies returning: Joan Gordon Webley, Dk Duncan, Francis Tulloch
The list could go on if I had the time to do some more research. The point I am making is this. I am close to 40 years of age and from I was born it is the same people I am seeing. Still no change! As someone who is passionate about my country’s development, I could NEVER see myself amongst these people giving advice or in any government position. Why have we allowed this trend to continue? How come I don’t hear people asking what these people’s qualifications are, apart from the ability to capitalise on nepotism?? Any opinions?
This is typical the world over. Do a poll of congress in the US or parliament in the UK. While you and I aren’t cool about it the electorate sanctions it. Political parties are like social clubs and background is like currency. I was asked run for Council just because my aunt was a former council woman. People feel secure with the familiar hence the two party system. It’s a big bonus for you if you are associated with someone who has credentials and it could also mean money for your campaign. It is really up to the intentions of the person who is being put up or as we say in Jamaica “Push Up” . They can choose to go for the ride or they can try to make a difference? Btw…I didn’t Paulwell or Deika Morrison on your list
Well it’s about time people take action on how they are running these “private clubs”. That is one of the reasons why I have no interest in working in Govenrment. No matter how hard you work, if you’re not Lisa Hanna then you have no future.