Renowned dancehall artist Ninjaman, currently serving a 25-year to life sentence for a 2009 murder, has issued a powerful open letter to Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, and National Security Minister Horace Chang. The letter, a critique of the current state of Jamaica’s prison system, underscores the need for effective rehabilitation programs for inmates.
Ninjaman, born Desmond Ballentine, has been vocal from behind bars, using narrated letters to share his insights on the intersections of the music industry, politics, and societal issues. In his most recent letter, voiced by Jojo Mac, he presents a unique perspective on how prison experiences could inform strategies to combat crime in Jamaica.
“Being incarcerated in the system should not be a hindrance to me or anyone else in the system contributing to Jamaica in a positive way,” Ninjaman asserts, emphasizing the untapped potential of prisoners to contribute positively to society.
The artist highlights the lack of rehabilitative opportunities in prisons, stressing that without hope and practical skills, many inmates are likely to reoffend upon release. Ninjaman’s proposal includes a range of vocational training programs, suggesting that enabling inmates to develop skills like computer technology, furniture making, and mechanics could not only benefit their post-incarceration lives but also contribute to the prison system’s self-sustainability.
Ninjaman proposes a collaborative approach, calling for meetings with top government officials and prison authorities to explore his rehabilitation initiative. He suggests that such programs could help inmates support their families and prepare for life after prison, reducing the likelihood of returning to criminal activities.
Additionally, Ninjaman addresses the plight of elderly prisoners, urging human rights groups to advocate for those too sick to pose a threat, suggesting their release could improve overall prison conditions and uphold human rights.
Despite his incarceration, Ninjaman’s commitment to fostering peace and betterment in Jamaica remains unwavering. His letter is not just a call for reform but a testament to the potential for transformation and redemption, even within the confines of a prison cell.
