OUR POLITICAL leaders, among many other significant leaders in different sectors of the society, should begin to emulate the leadership qualities of National Hero Marcus Mosiah Garvey.

First of all, our political leaders must take the responsibility of researching Garveyism and its relevance to Jamaica today. Political and other leaders will have to develop the confidence and courage to establish a paradigm shift in the present political culture in order to get a right turn towards a progressive agenda.

The Jamaican leaders must come out of their comfort zones and begin to inspire the people to believe in themselves and their country. As Garvey emphasised, 'One God, One Aim, One Destiny'. Of course, they should get the people to work in harmony with a central and specific goal to achieve over a set period of time. For instance, why not use the necessary resources and inspire the working class to have keen interest in agriculture, which could be the backbone of development of this nation, particularly at this time?

Nature of Garveyism

The nature of Garveyism in Jamaica was practical, ambitious and prudent when you consider that Marcus Garvey also formed a political party - the People's Political Party (PPP)- which had a great impact on the masses in those days of restricted franchise. The psychological effect on the thinking of the masses was phenomenal.

We need to have much more debates and dialogues on Garveyism and its relevance in Jamaica today.

I am certain that Jamaicans and Garveyites will join with me in saluting the 122nd anniversary celebration of Marcus Garvey, the extraordinary and powerful black man who was born on August 17, 1887.

I am, etc.,

Valentine Persons

Cornwall Courts

Montego Bay