Enter’Jamaica

Religion as defined by the free online dictionary is “A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion.” It is my belief, using this definition, that Jamaican Politics has some, if not all the underlying principles of a religion. We may not be worshiping some god or idol but we do (and sadly), approach our politics like religious fanatics going only by faith, and stand firm in our beliefs whether or not they are ridiculous and hold no water. I use the term faith loosely and by my definition “to follow blindly”, where people are not so much concerned with the values, ethics or morals of a political party, but more on tradition and general preference.

To disregard the main concerns that one should have when choosing your political persuasion such as, ability to lead, mandate, past and present track record and a variety of other important issues is foolhardy and ignorant. Choosing a party simply because you don’t like the other one, with no significant backing or reason should be a crime against self betterment. The majority of the voting population are not quite sure why they are voting for a party, and when presented with issues at hand, they behave religiously by standing firm to their faith and take a blind walk on a a rocky path to an uncertain but grave future.

To religiously choose a party time and time again with hopes of better performance even though confronted with a nasty track record is nothing short of senseless. To be afraid of a change that yes, may lead us down another bad road, but has high hopes for a better future is like sticking your head in the sand looking for light. My points may capture me as choosing sides and maybe i am, but justly so, i am taking my own advice and not choosing traditionally, but wisely.

“Its a traditional thing” or “i always vote for…” are not answers that should be coming out of a voters mouth when posed with the question of why they are voting for a party. And when shown the issues at hand, even when appalled at what they see, the fact that they still hold firm to their persuasion is just amazing. Both parties have created ‘faith’ful followers who will follow them to the death while not caring who their party walks over (even if its them) in the process. Crying out for help and still voting back in power the object of your discontent, is like praying to the devil while asking for a drink of water.

Religiously speaking “Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what hold you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.”

From the mouth of babes