The Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, Zuleika Jess, recently described the mandatory 15-year sentence for possession of an imitation weapon as “draconian.” According to the current law, possession of an imitation firearm carries the same penalty as possession of a real firearm — not less than 15 years and up to 25 years, depending on the ruling of the court.
Let’s be clear: this law is not draconian, it is necessary. An imitation weapon can cause just as much terror as a real one. Victims do not know whether what is pointed at them is fake or real — and neither do police officers in a split-second encounter. Criminals have long used imitation firearms to commit robberies, intimidate citizens, and spread fear. If the punishment were lighter, it would create a dangerous loophole that criminals would exploit.
And here’s the truth the PNP seems unwilling to admit: Jamaica’s crime-fighting strategy under the current government is working. Recent statistics show a drop in major crimes, including murder. This is not by accident — it is the result of strong policies, strategic policing, and legislation designed to remove both real and imitation weapons from the hands of criminals.
The People’s National Party continues to make the same mistake that cost them the last election. Jamaicans rejected them because they were seen as soft on crime and too cozy with criminal elements. Returning to that mindset will only drag the country back to the violent 1990s — an era we have fought hard to move beyond.
The politics and policies of yesterday will not work in this era. What Jamaica needs now is unity in the fight against crime. The PNP should focus less on undermining effective laws and more on contributing new ideas to strengthen our security. Opposition for opposition’s sake helps no one.
As citizens, we must continue to support Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his government in their commitment to safety and stability. Reducing crime saves lives, restores communities, and builds confidence in our nation’s future. Policies like these are not just statistics on paper — they are making a difference in the daily lives of Jamaicans.
Jamaica cannot afford to go soft on crime. And proposals like the one from Zuleika Jess should be firmly rejected.