Categories: Politics

More often than not, the world is taken with Yankee politics. But while the rest of the world is wondering what Curious George and his administration are up to, Jamaicans are concerned about a more pressing political matter, the PNP presidential elections. It was held at Jamaica College today and ended little over 2 1/2 hours ago.

The Jamaican media was covering the event non-stop. The four contenders and their supporters were out in full force. The supporters were dressed in a Carnival like fashion, decked out in the colours of their chosen candidates.The police and military were on standby, because Jamaicans tend to get “passionate” about politics. But the only assaults that took place at the event were verbal. The Portia and Peter camps were the largest. Omar’s was a close third. Karl Blythe had a small following, despite the Prime Minister’s endorsement on Friday. Yesterday was the Prime Minister’s last day in office. As much as he is reviled by the common man, I think I’m going to miss him. He was the only Prime Minister I ever knew, being in power for so long.

I feel nervous and excited, as if I was a contender myself. But as excited as I am about the elections, my father does not share my enthusiasm. He has absolutely no faith in the political process. He is in his mid 40’s, yet has never voted in his entire life. He dislikes both political parties, and believes that the elections will be about choosing the lesser of the four evils (Now I know where I got my cynicism from). I await the results with baited breath, because the winner will not only lead the PNP, but will decide the immediate fate of the nation.