THE EDITOR, Madam:
The developments in Haiti is a sad day for freedom loving people and democrats worldwide.
Peace, security and stability in the entire region are threatened, not only by the events in Haiti, but by the shameful inaction of the entire international community. Further, the argument that Aristide created a climate that led to his demise is hogwash. From the removal of the old oligarchs from power, they have plotted and schemed, through all sorts of devious means, to grab and further plunder Haiti; to enrich themselves and their crooked cohorts.
Now, Might has trampled upon Right. Anarchy has prevailed over democracy. Despair is, however, no answer to the present political situation. What is needed, is for Jamaica to remain a steadfast voice against these mercenary elements, Ton Ton Macoutes, death squad leaders, drug runners, murderer, financial whores and pimps that are seeking to once again plunder Haiti. Irrespective of the imperfections some paint on President Aristides, he was the embodiment of democracy. So what is the next best alternative? Ensuring that criminal gangs that are masquerading as freedom fighters get international recognition? Clearly not!
Our history, (and that of the Haitian people), is caught up in the whirlwind of international forces that extract maximum profit without improving our lives. Today, more than ever Haiti, and the Haitian people need our support. Indeed, it is worthwhile to point out that, at the time of the Paul Bogle rebellion to free Jamaica from the shackles of land-grabbing British colonialists, the Haitian people sent freedom fighters to assist Jamaica. Several Haitian generals were later detained and sent back to Haiti. We either sink or swim together.
Finally, Prime Minister Patterson and the Jamaican Government have taken a correct stand on this issue and we must all support this stand. Jamaica must speak with one voice. Meanwhile, we must send tried and tested policemen, members of the mobile reserve and a strong contingent from the Jamaica Defence Force to be part of an international peace-keeping force.
We must demand the immediate restoration of democracy. The murderers, thieves and reprobates that once plundered Haiti and are now storming the fort of democracy, must be halted at the gates. Woe betide the future for us all if 'unpopular governments' can be removed by any means necessary.
I am, etc.,
NORRIS MCDONALD
enmackdee@afrocaribbean
riddims.com
'Via Go-Jamaica'
