The Jamaica Observer wishes to state that it has no reason to question Digicel's choice of a CEO. As far as we are concerned, Digicel has always appointed the best person who, in its view, can efficiently lead the company, and that has proven itself in the company's success over the 12 years it has been operating in Jamaica.

That leadership has also been instrumental in implementing the vision of the Digicel Foundation which, since it was founded in 2004 with a donation of $60 million from Digicel Chairman Denis O'Brien, has undertaken more than 200 projects that have helped thousands of Jamaicans and numerous communities.

Although not having a Jamaican as a CEO here, Digicel, we know, has appointed Jamaicans as CEOs in other countries in the Caribbean and in the South Pacific islands of Tonga and Vanuatu.

In addition, the company now employs thousands of Jamaicans, some of whom are senior managers and at least two, to our knowledge, serve on the board of directors. They would be instrumental in the selection of a new CEO.

In a global environment, the best leadership can come from anywhere. What is important is that they be selected for their ability and judged on their results.

The column written by Mark Wignall in yesterday's Observer poses a question, however, conclusions should not be drawn from it.

The Observer takes this opportunity to welcome Andy Thorburn, the new CEO of Digicel Jamaica. Thorburn, who has more than 30 years' experience in the telecoms and IT sectors, is replacing Mark Linehan, who has been appointed Regional CEO of the Eastern Caribbean South with responsibility for Grenada, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

We wish both men well.