Jalil Dabdoub | Breaking the cycle: Time for vision and integrity

Elections are upon us once more. Banners flutter, voices rise, and the spectacle of politics unfolds in familiar rhythms. Beneath this clamour, beneath the spectacle and the promises, there lies a void — a silence far more deafening than any noise: the absence of vision.

We stand today, not at the dawn of a new Jamaica, but at an old dilemma. For too long, our leaders have treated governance as a game of small favours, short-lived gestures and petty promises. We are constantly asked to choose between the shallow motions of micro-politics and the grand designs of true statesmanship.

Take the recent political debates. Many Jamaicans tuned in, hoping to hear a clear, unifying vision for our future. What we witnessed instead was a performance: accusations tossed back and forth, deflections in place of answers, and party lines drawn in the sand — again. Not one candidate spoke to a bold vision; not one dared to outline a long-term blueprint for where Jamaica should be in 10, 20, or 50 years. Not one asked us to dream bigger.

A few headline initiatives have been pushed to the fore — like the School Bus Programme, now marketed as a gift to rural children. But, is this a step on a well-charted path toward national transformation, or merely a gesture cast to catch votes in the twilight of an election? Public goods must never be wielded as weapons in election campaigns as we have witnessed. They must be the pillars upon which a nation builds its future — untouched by the petty contests of party colours.

POLITICAL THEATRE

This is not governance. This is political theatre. And we, the people, have been too willing to applaud.

Yet, the fault is not theirs alone. We, the people, must hold the mirror to ourselves. How many times have we sold our dignity for a token? How often have we turned a blind eye to corruption when it benefits us? Our democracy is weakened, not only by the failings of those who govern, but by the complacency of those who are governed

And we must acknowledge a deeper, more uncomfortable truth: parts of our citizenry benefit from this broken system. When government contracts are won through connections instead of competence, when business success depends more on political allegiance than innovation, we all lose. Merit is silenced, and progress is stalled.

Perhaps the answer to our deepest challenges lies in a more educated citizenry. Too often, politicians exploit the realities of those who lack access to quality education and the economic means to uplift themselves. It is easier to sway those who are vulnerable, those who lack the tools to think beyond the next handout. This is why one of the most urgent and profound visions we must demand is a long-term, strategic commitment to education for every Jamaican — no exceptions.

True investment in education and empowerment threatens the very political culture that thrives on dependency. Economically empowered, educated people are not easily swayed by gimmicks, handouts, or fleeting promises. They demand accountability. They demand progress. They build nations.

That’s why education, in particular, has never received the deep, sustained investment it deserves. Because an independent citizenry is inconvenient for those who prefer control over empowerment

We need a vision that stretches beyond the horizon of election cycles. And that vision must be specific. Tangible. Long-term. A vision not bound to a single party or fleeting promises, but forged by laws and carried forward by generations. We need a plan to build an economy that endures the tides of global change. A society that educates not just for exams, but for excellence. A justice system that protects rather than persecutes. A health system that heals, not neglects. And, above all, a moral compass that guides our steps towards unity and prosperity.

NOT SHORT-TERM FIXES

Not slogans. Not giveaways. Not short-term fixes. What builds nations are systems that endure, institutions that function, and leaders who plan beyond the ballot box.

If our political class lacks the courage to lead this charge, then others must rise. Civil society must sound the clarion call. The private sector must champion a new dawn. Every Jamaican of conscience must demand nothing less than principled governance and steadfast vision.

Yes, the path of principle is steep and fraught with sacrifice. It may not guarantee victory at the ballot box tomorrow, but it will kindle the flame of hope that guides the nation beyond the dark night of short-term politics.

To those who bear the mantle of leadership today, it is time to summon the backbone of your office. It is time to say ‘Enough’. Enough handouts, enough empty promises, enough scare benefits and spoils. Lead with honour. Lead with vision.

Which of our leaders is principled and strong enough to set aside the trappings of power and embrace the burdens of true leadership? Who will dare to forge a new path, knowing the road will be lonely, knowing the cost may be great — but knowing that the reward is the long-term prosperity of a nation?

That road will not be easy, nor will it be travelled by those seeking personal gain or applause. It will demand sacrifice, steadfastness, and a vision that transcends the moment. But, make no mistake, Jamaica’s future rests not in the hands of fate, but in the courage of those willing to lead with integrity and wisdom.

The question is no longer if we can change – but who will have the will to begin that change?

Jalil S. Dabdoub is an attorney-at-law. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com