Perhaps the most fitting definition of democracy is that which is taken from the Greek, 'demos', meaning "common people," and kratos meaning "rule or strength".

The Cultural Dictionary puts it aptly: "A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or freely through elected representatives."

Jamaica, like several other countries, has adopted this form of government where elected representatives govern on behalf of the people. This means that government representatives are the servants of the people. The people are the ones who have the power and their representatives should make decisions which reflect the wishes of the populace. There must be frequent consultations with the people in order to effectively govern on their behalf.

The above definition is relevant in light of recent concerns over whether the present People's National Party (PNP) government should continue programmes started by the previous Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) government. Another point which has been made is whether having taken the decision to continue a programme, acknowledgement and credit should go to the those who had just demitted office.

vociferous

This, in all good conscience, should not be an issue. Granted, the outgoing party will be vociferous in staking its claim, and will even point out the ruling party's inability to generate new programmes and to govern effectively. However, political parties should not get so caught up (or entangled) in themselves to the point where they cannot seem to think outside the party box, and at any cost are willing to put party over country.

Another flip side to this is the matter of a ruling party refusing to continue with a programme merely on the basis that it was started by one's opponent. It is simply amazing that persons thought to be intelligent could even contemplate this nonsensical, childish stance. A programme should continue based on its merit and not about who formed it in the first place. The focus should be on how best to manage that venture in the national interest and nothing else.

political points

This penchant that we have for casting aside good plans and programmes in order to score political points should cease. Too much is at stake to even contemplate otherwise.

We are told that the Jamaican electorate is becoming more sophisticated and so are in a better position to pinpoint political manoeuvring. If this notion is correct, it must cause us to wonder why the political parties do not realise that the time has come to put an end to this practice. Political parties need to move away from putting their interests before that of the Jamaican people. The continuation of good and effective programmes make sense especially in this period of recession.

Another area of concern and contention is the practice of adopting the programme of one's opponent, rebranding it as one's own, and then vehemently denying that there is any resemblance between the two.

So what? Who cares? Certainly not the majority of Jamaicans. The general population is concerned with how best these plans and programmes will impact their lives and the country's affairs. And what of the truth that we have heard been banded of late? Why should it be alien among politicians? Telling or admitting to what is truthful ought to be seen as a noble deed and not a sign of weakness by political parties and their supporters.

Why should it be alien among politicians? Telling or admitting to what is truthful ought to be seen as a noble deed and not a sign of weakness by political parties and their supporters.