Poverty And Crime
Recently the Gleaner treated us to a humorous joke: ‘why say it is that the crime spikes, attributed to Bunting responding ; Obama says, ‘it is the economy, stupid.’ But can this be right? How can the entire social milieu be disturbed by a level of crime though unparalleled in human history, in a time of relative peace.
So much dialogue is behind this remark, but truth is unquestionable. But are we not aware of certain implicit evidence, truths in history, and other examples? “Poverty is one of the main causes of violence”.( M.K. Gandhi; 1946.) The nation be accused of irresponsibly in rapport with their people.
So, We are confronted as a nation with being incompetent, and also being jejune; what an insult to the intelligent men and and women who live and work here; notwithstanding the fact that many of our families have moved away.
Another statement reads,“ Poverty is a denial of choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity…It means not having enough to feed and clothe a family, not having a school or clinic to go to…It means insecurity, powerlessness and exclusion of individuals, households and communities. It means susceptibility to violence, and it often implies living on marginal or fragile environments, without access to clean water or sanitation.” ( Mother Theresa of Calcutta; 1998.)
People…were poor not because they were stupid or lazy. They worked all day long, doing complex physical tasks. They were poor because the financial institution in the country did not help them widen their economic base.” —((Mohammed Yuunus).
Minister Bunting when he came to office, made many changes to the administration of Justice to Jamaicans living in Jamaica. All that has happened, including the appointments of and removals of Commissioners of Police, is a spike in murders.
What can possibly be done, now as a matter of urgency, is to validate the death penalties. And for the time being re-impose them. Hopefully a review of that ordinance every six months will be possible.
I cannot blame the previous commissioners; but the problem is not being solved.
Then we may consider a vigorous army officer to head a force of police/military militia to do what is necessary to stop the crime, at their planning and discretion. This may include monitoring and tracking the criminal elements, who require re-training. re-engineering, and eventually discipline. A plan in its entirety needs to be developed.
©Ramesh Sujanani