My thoughts…on stuff

With only 3 days until the announcement of Jamaica’s new prime minister, the PNP leadership race has almost come to an end, and it gets fiercer with each passing day. Local TV stations are constantly airing the aspirants’ campaign ads. Newspapers too. The members of the party themselves are feeling the pressure too as they must side with their chosen candidates without jeopardizing the unity of the party. Chances are you’re not Jamaican, so I’ll brief you on the candidates so you can decide for yourself who you think is the best choice to lead the nation.

Portia Simpson-Miller
Pros: Came from humble beginnings, can connect with the poor. Has charisma. Very popular.
Cons: Not seen as intellectually equipped to lead the country. Jamaica may not be ready for a female prime minister.

Peter Phillips
Pros: Seen as the intellectual of the group. Has proven leadership ability. Very popular.
Cons: Can’t connect with the poor.

Omar Davies
Pros: Seems ready to tackle the big issues. Realistic, doesn’t make empty promises.
Cons: Viewed as arrogant. Has not done very well as Minister of Finance.

Karl Blythe
Pros: People person. Good track record.
Cons: Multi-million dollar scandal hanging over his head. Viewed as the weakest candidate.

My personal choice is Peter Phillips. He seems trustworthy (as far as politicians go) and has done reasonably well in his present post as Minister of Security. He was definitely more visible than his predecessor. Portia and Peter are leading in the polls and more than likely it will boil down to a match between the two of them. Who will win? Watch this space.