Dear Editor,

As a Jamaican living abroad, let me say that I am deeply ashamed now to be called a Jamaican. Imagine tuning into news stations and hearing that a prominent deputy mayor has been arrested in the lottery scam. What a disgrace!

The prime minister has yet to address the nation on this issue. For a country that is supposed to be celebrating 50 years of Independence, we are instead being faced with hypocrisy, disgrace and disrespect.

To add insult to injury, instead of being asked to step down and vacate his post, the deputy mayor is instead on a leave of absence. During this time, is he expected to be paid his full salary while doing nothing? The audacity of it all is making me sick to my stomach.

I have to ask if this is how this government expects to run the country - rewarding those who are making us look bad? Plus, it can't be wise for the prime minister to say "I don't know", when questioned on the matter

A good leader steps up to the plate. A good leader is not silent on the critical issues facing the country.

I shudder to think that this government has been given the mandate to govern for five years, because with a leader that is so silent, it is clear that this level of ignorance is only taking us backwards, and we really have nothing positive to look forward to. May God have mercy on our country.

Michelle Bradshaw

phillipsmichelle57@yahoo.com