The Betrayal of Usain Bolt: A Reflection on Jamaica’s Treatment of Its Icons

Jamaica has a troubling habit of turning against its greatest sons. The recent theft of Usain Bolt’s savings from Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) is more than just another financial scandal—it is a national disgrace. What’s even more disheartening is the reaction from some Jamaicans. Instead of rallying around Bolt, some have dismissed his loss with a cold indifference, or worse, veiled satisfaction. It’s as if they don’t fully grasp who he is, what he represents, and what he has done for this country.

No Ordinary Man

This is no ordinary man who lost his money. This is Usain St. Leo Bolt, the fastest human in recorded history. The name that echoes across continents, the man who made the world stop and watch whenever he took to the track. The man who, in 9.58 seconds, cemented Jamaica’s place in sporting history. His victories were not just personal achievements; they were national triumphs. Every gold medal he won, every world record he shattered, was another stamp on Jamaica’s passport to global relevance. His charisma, his humility, and his unwavering love for his country made him not just a champion, but an ambassador.

And yet, he is being treated as if he is just another victim of fraud, as if his loss is no greater than anyone else’s. That is not just unfair—it is shameful.

Deja Vu?

We have seen this before. Bob Marley, arguably the most influential musician to ever emerge from this island, faced the same lack of appreciation from his own people. While the world revered him, Jamaica was slow to recognize his importance. He was shot in his own home before performing at the One Love Peace Concert, an event intended to unite the very people who turned against him. He was criticized, dismissed, and often unprotected in his own land. Yet, when he died, Jamaica clung to his legacy as if it had never doubted him.

It is the same pattern repeating with Bolt. When he was winning, we cheered. When he made the world know our flag, our slang, our culture, we basked in the glow of his greatness. But now, when he faces betrayal, when he needs his people to stand with him, some are quick to distance themselves, to downplay his loss, to murmur, ‘He's rich already, he will be fine.’

The Plot is Lost

Adding insult to injury, some are criticising Bolt for calling on the government to intervene, arguing that SSL is a private investment firm and not the state’s responsibility. This view exposes a fundamental misunderstanding of how financial oversight works. If a private bank were to collapse due to unchecked fraud, affecting thousands of citizens, would the government remain silent? No. Financial institutions operate within a regulatory framework, and it is the government’s duty to ensure stability and prevent such large-scale breaches of trust. The scale of this scandal demands attention, and Bolt, like any other defrauded citizen, has every right to seek intervention.

Furthermore, Bolt actively chose to make his home in Jamaica rather than settling abroad, a move that sets him apart from many of his peers. Instead of living overseas and sending ad hoc contributions back, he demanded that endorsements and business opportunities pour money into his homeland, ensuring economic benefits for his fellow Jamaicans. His decision to invest in Jamaica—through business ventures, philanthropy, and his very presence—should be celebrated, not punished.

What the World's Fastest Man Means to Jamaica

This attitude reveals a troubling truth: too many Jamaicans do not understand the true weight of their icons until it is too late. Bolt, like Marley, has done more for Jamaica’s global recognition than most politicians, businessmen, or institutions ever could. He is a living symbol of excellence, discipline, and perseverance.

The way we treat our heroes says something about us as a people. If we cannot protect them, if we cannot appreciate them beyond their peak moments, then we do not deserve them. It is time to break this cycle. Usain Bolt has given his all to Jamaica—his speed, his pride, his unwavering patriotism. The least we can do is stand with him now, when it actually matters.