The incarcerated artist known as Ninjaman has penned an open letter directed at Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, and National Security Minister Horace Chang, urging them to take action against the rising crime rates in the country.
Currently serving a 25-year to life sentence for the 2009 murder of Ricardo ‘Ricky Trooper’ Johnson, Ninjaman has been using narrated open letters to address various issues within the dancehall community and politics.
In his latest letter, narrated by Jojo Mac, Ninjaman, whose real name is Desmond Ballentine, proposes measures to address the crime situation based on his experiences behind bars. Despite his incarceration, he believes that individuals within the prison system, including himself, can contribute positively to Jamaica.
Ninjaman emphasizes the need for rehabilitation programs in prisons, arguing that many incarcerated individuals could benefit from such initiatives to break the cycle of crime upon their release. He expresses concern that without hope for self-reliance, individuals are at risk of returning to criminal activities.
The artist points out the shortcomings of the current prison system, stating that it lacks mechanisms for rehabilitating prisoners from various professions. He suggests the implementation of programs such as computer classes, technician classes, and mechanical training to tap into the unused skills of inmates.
Ninjaman has requested a meeting with the head of prisons to discuss his rehabilitation program idea. Additionally, he seeks meetings with key government officials, including the National Security Minister, Minister of Justice, Chief Justice, and the Prime Minister, to visit the prison and witness the challenges firsthand.
The artist advocates for prisoners to engage in vocational activities, such as furniture making, with the products being auctioned to generate income. He proposes that prisoners earn a percentage of the income to support their minor children and themselves upon release.
Ninjaman also criticizes human rights groups for not advocating for elderly prisoners who, in his view, are too sick to commit crimes and should be released to improve overall prison conditions.
Despite acknowledging his own mistakes, Ninjaman expresses a commitment to peace and emphasizes his desire for the best outcomes for Jamaica. His message has garnered support from fellow artists, including Isat Buchana, Stacious, I-Octane, and others.
