The Politician And the Deejaying Police Officer in Jamaica
Some time ago, I managed a case involving a sixteen-year-old British youth who was cruising around London with older men, heavily armed and dangerous.
He declared that he was the son of a “don” from West Kingston. This youth has NEVER been to Jamaica and his parents are not even Jamaican.
Another young man threatened to “load his gun” and “pop” another. He declared “Giggs” and Vybz Kartel were his idols.
We banned the playing of music that might incite gun or sexual violence in 35 care homes.
That meant a significant number of dancehall songs from Jamaica. And long before Vybz Kartel was convicted of murder.
Recently, the PNP Member of Parliament, Dwayne Vaz repeated Kartel’s lyrics on stage while addressing supporters in Mount Salem, Montego Bay. Of course, he hastened to apologise.
In September, a former JLP Senator launched a petition on social media, pleading leniency for a policeman who used lyrics depicting gun violence at a community rally.
The police officer was sent to close a dance but ended up being the star performer. Of course, HE hastened to apologise.
There is no evidence that banning lyrics depicting violence in care homesaprevents youths being influenced to “pop” someone. There is also no evidence that a politician or police officer indirectly inciting violence at public events will influence Jamaican youths to engage in gun warfare.
In a country where the average youth says jokingly to another, “If mi did have mi gun, mi woulda shoot you”, there is little margin for error.
Public servants, including politicians and police officers have a duty of care to MINIMISE these risks. Are these people not bound by strict Codes of Conduct and sanctioned when they err? Smh!
By Neo Makeba