South Africa – Tribute to Leader Nelson Mandela

December 6, 2013

By Padmini Arhant

Heartfelt Condolences to the family and citizens in South Africa on the passing away of South African leader and former President Nelson Mandela.

South Africa like the rest of the nations in the continent and the world under colonialism experienced slavery and discrimination denying the population life with dignity.

During the foreign rule in the mineral especially diamond rich nation, the occupiers treated natives with bias depriving them the right to exist let alone have fair opportunity in their homeland. 

South Africa then became the epitome of apartheid with segregation and subjugation policy.

Whenever atrocities and crimes against innocent citizens reach optimum the end result leads to aggressors’ exit or authoritarianism expiration.

The foreign rulers human rights violation and violence creating hostile environment for locals stoke national sentiments to protect individual and society from further abuse.

Synonymous to most colonized nations, South Africa needed strong leadership and a patriot to inspire compatriots to rise to the occasion and free the nation from status quo.

These qualities along with deep concern for social equality and justice were the fine attributes of the leader Nelson Mandela remaining steadfast in the freedom struggle including imprisonment lasting nearly three decades not without hardships and extreme conditions exemplified dedication to just cause. 

The influence of Mahatma Gandhithe non-violence and civil disobedience pioneer eloquently protesting apartheid in South Africa promoted peaceful movement against injustice and with South Africa’s leader Nelson Mandela adopting peace in the relentless pursuit for independence led to foreign occupation conclusion.

South African leader and the first democratically elected President Nelson Mandela will be remembered for extraordinary contributions in the liberation of the country and people challenged with prejudice and disenfranchisement under foreign authority. 

The former President Nelson Mandela as the leader continues to be the indomitable spirit in reviving hope to the oppressed and marginalized being the vast majority across the globe.

May God Bless the departed leader’s soul to rest in peace.

Peace to South Africa!

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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South Africa – Tribute to Leader Nelson Mandela

December 5, 2013

From: Padmini Arhant

Heartfelt Condolences to the family and citizens in South Africa as well as the rest of the world on the passing away of South African leader and former President Nelson Mandela.

Tribute to the departed leader will be presented in due course.

Thank you for your patience.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

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South Africa – Durban BRICS Summit 2013

March 26, 2013

By Padmini Arhant

Greetings! To leaderships from BRICS nations i.e. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa as well as other dignitaries attending the 2013 BRICS summit in Durban, South Africa.

The BRICS foreign ministers statement preceding the scheduled summit March 26th and 27th, 2013 on the agreement and arrangement for BRICS developmental project bank rivaling western institutions viz. the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a step in the right direction to address manufactured crises by existing finance industry aimed at exploitation and insolvency of developing and developed economies around the world.

World Bank and IMF in particular are responsible for impoverishment amongst significant population in developing nations that is now prevalent in the industrialized North America and Europe.

These two organizations along with their counterparts like European Central Bank (ECB), European Union and other financial bigwigs have consolidated efforts in exacerbating people suffering with severe austerity and bank bailouts under false pretext of rescue schemes meant to benefit banking cartels besides gaining direct access to respective nations resources through stipulations in the deal witnessed in the Mediterranean island nation – Cyprus borrowing criteria.

BRICS financing on the other hand set up to assist needy and poorer economies would perhaps allow countries like Egypt, Cyprus and many others across the globe to access funds without experiencing similar dilemma with hegemony controlled and managed western monetary infrastructure.

Furthermore, BRICS and likewise Latin America, Middle Eastern, African and Asian community could form regional financial network fostering economic growth, and fair trade agreement unlike free trade agreement (FTA) or foreign direct investments (FDI) with multinational corporations dictating terms and conditions not excluding political intervention attributed to status quo world over.

The funding of various projects facilitating job oriented programs for communal and society progress under workers or labor force management stressing collective responsibility on repayments would yield better results rather than foreign or third party oversight largely being the beneficiary depriving the borrower any economic success and instead burdening them with generational indebtedness reflective in western lending strategy.

From micro to macro financing envisaged at pervasive economic sector expansion promoting self-sufficiency and indigenous production utilizing native materials plus endowments would boost sustainable trend accommodating economically viable imports and exchange of goods and services for quality enhancement and competitive price in the market economy.

BRICS consideration to maintain foreign reserves and national currency trading is yet another genuine concept with delineation from current system engaged in FOREX maladjustments otherwise known as currency manipulation to offset trade imbalance in bilateral or multilateral relations leading to endless disputes in the dollar and euro zone.

On other important affairs – BRICS commitment to resolve international conflicts beginning with Syria having consumed nearly 75,000 lives and still counting while million or more forced to flee villages and towns as refugees due to western and gulf states illegal warfare in overt sponsorship of terrorism is imperative not only to save lives but also prevent escalation of violence in the volatile Middle East inevitably spreading to rest of the world.

Hence, BRICS unanimous consensus combined with concrete actions calling for termination of terrorism and all forms of aggression including WMD on innocent civilians is absolutely essential to prove the member nations sovereignty in recognition of victims i.e. Syria’s right to self determination as well as maintaining sovereign status.

Notwithstanding BRICS solidarity and pledge to world peace could be demonstrated in rejecting military and terrorist deployment seeking complete withdrawal and arms embargo in independent Syrian state and elsewhere.

International consortiums adopting measures severing ties with nations behind Syrian death and destruction could be effective and perhaps provide impetus to end bloodshed in the terror mission against the Arab country.

Likewise, shedding light on Israeli-Palestinian issue moving towards establishment of Palestine state with pre-1967 borders is crucial for regional and global security.

UNSC, EU, NATO, World Bank and IMF…are convenient avenues for western powers to impose unilateral economic warfare and military attacks against target nations in the legitimate resistance to western monopoly and neocolonialism premised on neoliberalism in the economic front and neo-conservatism on geopolitical dominance.

These sub structural hierarchies under New World Order or One World Government auspice endangering life and livelihoods everywhere.

Invalidation with strong opposition to hegemonic goals is paramount to defend territorial integrity and national republic.

Upon preventing hegemony threats and widespread carnage, the situation would alleviate social injustice caused by divide and conquer policy.

Economic prosperity ignoring environment protection is meaningless considering inhabitants’ survival is dependent on healthy and safe habitat.

Accordingly, BRICS submission to stringent environmental regulations with natural renewable energy – the only alternative and affordable sources for global consumption is no longer an option but a necessity in the short and long run.

BRICS attention and adherence to nuclear disarmament urging all nuclear states barring exceptions and non-nuclear entities participation in international meeting this year is a priority considering western nuclear powers involvement in dangerous and provocative military confrontation.

BRICS expediting initiatives on the financial hub is monumental for achievements favorable to humanity at large.

Finally, BRICS invitation to Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq and Syria as partners representing the Middle East would conform to diversity and contemporary geodynamics in the evolutionary process.

Best Wishes to BRICS in all endeavors that are peaceful, positive and progressive to mankind.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

World Cup Cricket 2011 Grand Tournament

February 19, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The World Cup Cricket grand tournament begins on February 19, 2011.

Bangladesh hosted the spectacular opening ceremony with fireworks amid 25,000 cheering cricket fans gathered for an up close view of their favorite sports heroes.

First match between India and Bangladesh held today in Dhaka, Bangladesh resulted in the Indian side winning by 87 runs.

Heartfelt Congratulations! To team India on the brilliant start with more to follow until the end.

Cricket is religiously followed in the Indian sub-continent. The mega sports event is the most popular and in some quarters revered by the cricket enthusiasts fervently praying and desiring for their respective home team to clinch the world title.

The sport that was once considered the ‘Lords’ Game’ – a legacy from British empire is now played in every nook and corner of South East Asia especially in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Similarly in other parts of the world – West Indies, South Africa and Zimbabwe, notwithstanding western nations like England, Australia, New Zealand along with relatively new entrants – Ireland, Canada, Netherlands and Kenya have significant admirers and young cricketers competing to surpass the native legends’ records.

In India – the passion for the game is contagious with cricket lovers idolizing their favorite player and cricket season marks the beginning of sports carnival.

The current world cup competition involves 14 international teams playing 49 match games over 43 days in 14 different venues spread across India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

It is a one-day cricket match with limited overs set at 50 for each side unlike the test match that continues with 2 innings played by both teams over minimum of 3-4 days for conclusion.

Undoubtedly the world cup kicked off with a promising trail from the successful opening ceremony in Bangladesh to the recent victory for the Indian team.

There are other formidable challengers with similar aspirations and their performance will be a real treat to the spectators and sprawling cricket fans worldwide.

Since each team will strive to dominate the show – the audience are sure to be entertained to their heart content.

Cricket craze is pervasive and the multinational caliber pronounces the effects during the fixated moment of world cup championship.

Ethics and economics aspect – The stakes are high in the tremendously appealing sport not devoid of controversies and scandals related to match fixing leading to emerging talents’ abrupt end of the career.

Similarly the crime investigation on the sudden demise of a foreign coach not long ago caused a maelstrom within the prestigious sports circle.

Sports are enjoyable at any time. However maintaining discipline and prioritizing high moral conduct would not only enhance individual image but also promote a positive message to several million impressionable minds preparing to enter the enthralling sport as professionals.

There are no losers in a contest for the participants share the glory in sports spirit.

On that optimistic note – Wishing phenomenal success to every contestant in the World Cup Cricket 2011.

Best Wishes to all sports stars of the riveting one-day international cricket.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

United States Senate Ratifies New START Treaty between U.S. and Russia

December 22, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The New START Treaty – The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty that was signed by President Barack Obama and President Dmitry Medvedev on April 8, 2010 was approved with 71-26 votes by the United States Senate.

New START Treaty between the two largest nuclear states – United States and Russia ratification replaces the original START Treaty signed in 1991 that expired on December 5, 2009.

The importance of containing the nuclear proliferation and strategic offensive arms is no longer an option but an immediate requirement in the highly volatile global environment increasingly posing greater risks without checks and balances in the critical nuclear and conventional arsenal stockpiles.

It was elaborated on this website when the related article titled – “U.S. and Russia Nuclear Arms Reduction Treaty” was published on March 27, 2010 under National and Global Security in the Politics category.

Accordingly the measures adopted in the New START Treaty is a preliminary step to curtail the discretionary expansion of the strategic offensive arms comprising the ICBM ( Intercontinental Ballistic Missile), SLBM (Submarine launched Ballistic Missiles) and nuclear warheads constituting major threat to national and international security.

As per the official declaration of this important agreement:

“New START limits the number of strategic offensive arms of the US and Russia (within seven years of the Treaty’s entry into force) to:

• 1,550 warheads on deployed ICBMs, warheads on deployed SLBMs, and
nuclear warheads counted for deployed heavy bombers.

• 800 deployed and non-deployed ICBM launchers, deployed and non-deployed
SLBM launchers, and deployed and non-deployed heavy bombers.

• 700 deployed ICBMs, deployed SLBMs, and deployed heavy bombers.”

The arms race that began during cold war through clandestine operations by the Superpowers – United States and the former Soviet Union then precipitated the translucent arms trade up until now.

New START Treaty facilitates nuclear arsenal verification on both sides particularly for the United States to perform inspection of the Russian site since the earlier START Treaty ended on December 5, 2009.

From the National Security standpoint – The Senate and White House claims on the New START Treaty are:

• Preserves a strong US nuclear arsenal as an effective strategic deterrent.

• Provides stability, predictability and transparency between the two largest
nuclear powers.

• Strengthens critical non-proliferation efforts around the world.

• Increases US ability to work with other countries to confront the nuclear
ambitions of countries like Iran and North Korea.

It also emphasized that New START Treaty ‘will not constrain U.S. missile defense capabilities’ – a position that was vigorously contested by some Republican members in the Senate.

Additionally, the treaty consists of the administration plan to invest $85 billion over ten year period in the U.S. nuclear facilities’ maintenance and upgrade.

The directors of the three nuclear laboratories viz. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Sandia National Laboratory are stated to have appreciated the provision.

Any action to restrain nuclear and non-strategic armament is significant considering the prevalent loss of lives from the widespread violence emanating from inconspicuous arms trade and lack of oversight on uranium enrichment.

However, the peaceful existence of all relies on complete nuclear disarmament that was criticized during the contentious Senate debate from the conservative perspective.

What is not being realized in the denuclearization dismissal?

South Africa and the previous Soviet bloc nations like Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Belarus have voluntarily surrendered their nuclear weapons and submitted to IAEA certification setting precedence for others to follow suit.

These nations are part of the same world and continue to exist with their non-nuclear status challenging the political dogma against nuclear disarmament.

Nuclear power is falsely embraced as the formidable deterrent even though the inevitable retaliation could result in mutual annihilation proving the fact –

Reference – the pioneer of peace Mahatma Gandhi.

“An eye for an eye will make the world go blind.”

Hence, accelerating the course for nuclear-free planet is the viable solution to real peace in the long run.

Civilian nuclear program is presently popular with a dangerous potential for further enhancements to nuclear warheads.

The U.S. default on the controversial Iranian nuclear program jeopardize the disarmament and non-proliferation objectives in the sensitive zone – the Middle East.
————————————————————————————————
As per New York Times article – published by DAVID E. SANGER on October 27,2010

Thank you.

Obama Set to Offer Stricter Nuclear Deal to Iran –

“The Obama administration and its European allies are preparing a new offer for negotiations with Iran on its nuclear program, senior administration officials say…

Gary Samore, Mr. Obama’s coordinator for countering unconventional weapons, told an audience at the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Washington last week that if Iran acquired a weapon, it “would have an utterly catastrophic effect” in the region.

If successful, Iran could drive other states in the Persian Gulf to seek their own nuclear weapons. An attack by Israel on Iran’s facilities, he added, could set off a regional war. Mr. Samore described stopping Iran’s program as his “No. 1 job.”

Several European officials have discouraged that approach. But they also worry that negotiating about the fate of uranium that Iran has enriched in violation of Security Council commands could have the effect of convincing the Iranians they could retain some of their enrichment capability at the end of any negotiation.

Mr. Obama’s campaign in 2008 said that would be unacceptable; as president, he has not addressed the question clearly.”
———————————————————————————————
By Padmini Arhant

There is an urgent need for the nuclear and non-nuclear states regardless of NPT and CTBT membership to conform to rigid international rule imposing restrictions on advanced nuclear ambitions.

The double standards in nuclear technology deals create opportunity for violation and defeat the purpose behind treaty establishment.

Therefore the competition among developed nations on nuclear exchange for alternative energy in Asia and Middle East could inadvertently promote unwanted deviation from the intended engagement i.e. exclusive use for energy production.

Regrettably the nuclear energy is the dominant and highly desirable source in the bilateral trade and commerce with little or no attention towards safe natural elements such as wind, solar…for energy supply.

Only the paradigm shift in the nuclear concept could enable the effective containment eventually resulting in the elimination of nuclear weapons.

Again, the New START Treaty serving as the prototype for regional consensus could perhaps contribute to the ultimate goal.

Congratulations! To the honorable members in the United States Senate –

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman, Senator John Kerry and Senator Richard Lugar for the determination to succeed in this matter along with participation from the,

Chairwoman of the United States Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Senator Dianne Feinstein

And,

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, Senator Carl Levin,

The Republican Senators for bipartisan cooperation,

United States Defense Force High Command for the valuable input

And,

President Barack Obama and the White House officials for the commitment in the crucial New START treaty ratification.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

State of the Union Address by President Barack Obama

January 29, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

President Barack Obama presented the first State of the Union address to the joint session of the United States Congress.

Appropriately, the core message was about the economy and the various proposals to revive the nation from the prolonged economic recession that began in 2002.

Attention to the small businesses, students and the average American families who represent the significant consumer base is timely and the commitments are economically viable.

The tax cuts to Corporations preserving American jobs is a necessary strategy to deal with the double digit unemployment risen to the current rate by 2.6 percent, since inheriting the 7.6 percent rate in January 2009 when the former President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney left office.

In fact, the $787 billion funding towards President Obama initiated American Investment and Recovery Act helped to contain the economic crisis and the unemployment to a marginal increase against the financial sector avalanche.

There was a large emphasis on education to improve Math and Science skills among K-12 students.

In addition, the President laid out the programs to ease the burden on the students attending Community College through tax incentives, affordable loan payments, increasing Pell Grants and even enticing them to join public service in exchange for the loan adjustment. Of course, the families were included with a $10,000 tax relief for their children’s college education.

As highlighted by the President, sound education is the stepping-stone to progress and prosperity in a society and the effective means to reduce poverty. Also, it would decrease the prison population that is straining the state budgets like in California.

In social issues – the President pledged to repeal the ‘don’t ask don’t tell,’ discriminatory policy in the United States military against the gay service personnel who are equally dedicated in their patriotic duty. A remarkable recognition and long overdue.

On the discretionary budget-spending freeze scheduled to begin in 2011, it’s relieving to note that the safety net for the retirees and senior citizens available through social security, Medicare and Medicaid for the low-income families would not be affected.

However, it’s essential to apply tighter control on the defense spending that is disproportionately increasing against health care, educational and environmental cause regardless of party representation in the White House.

The President urged both parties in Congress to rein in wasteful spending in the form of earmarks or pork barrel – It’s necessary to be discerning in the expenditures given the accumulated national debt.

Job creation through public projects such as high-speed railways and infra structure maintenance is coherent with the former President JFK’s achievement in connecting America from coast to coast.

It’s a worthwhile investment and pervasive in dealing with the energy and environment issues.

The President is right on target in this respect due to multiple benefits on these projects viz.

First, it would decrease unemployment and boost the economy simultaneously.

Second, it enables energy conservation with mass transit possibly becoming the desirable public transportation, besides having a positive environmental impact.

Third, from the health standpoint – the automobile accidents being the leading cause of premature deaths and often leaving the victims with horrific physical injuries in the industrialized countries, the proposed system is a preventive measure in that regard.

Moreover, the stress factor that is common among the motorists could be eliminated as well.

Last but not the least; the local economies would enormously gain from an efficient public transport system attracting tourists within and outside the country.

It’s gratifying to note the President’s affirmation on the health care reform – Echoing the President’s message – Health care legislation cannot wait indefinitely for it’s proved to be a burgeoning crisis contributing to national deficit due to horrendous costs not to mention the loss of lives.

The President also detailed on the financial reform that ought to be implemented to save the domestic and the global financial markets from major catastrophes in the future. It’s crucial for the legislation to be loopholes free to deter the industry from circumventing the rules and regulations.

With respect to the on-going wars in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the capturing and killing of terrorists might be a partial success for the military operation. Nevertheless, terrorism emanating from despair and desolation cannot be eradicated with military might and sophisticated drone attacks.

In the absence of a functional government facilitating basic necessities like clean water, agricultural and industrial growth, education, health care and social equalities that guarantees freedom to live life with dignity, the regions will continue to be the breeding ground for terror.

The President fulfilling the campaign promise on troops withdrawal from Iraq by this summer deserves praise and credit. Again, the veterans returning home after a traumatic combat situation have to be suitably provided for their settlement in the civilian environment. These patriots and their families cannot be abandoned after their sacrifices for the nation.

Warning the rebels in Iran and North Korea on nuclear programs is warranted. But, the successive failures in the multilateral talks in 2009 and 2010 among the 6 powers including Russia on Iran’s nuclear program suggests the inherent mistrust and power struggle conspicuous in the United Nations Security Council.

Reiterating the earlier suggestion, the solution to resolve the international crisis on different fronts is to expand the U.N. Security Council from 5 to 11, with the inclusion of new and conciliatory members like Japan, Brazil, India, South Africa, UAE and the present defacto member, Germany.

In other international crisis, even though the Israeli Palestinian conflict was not part of the address, the President responded to a town hall participant’s question on this issue.

Despite Israel being the United States strongest ally and the political predicaments prevalent more in Israel than Palestine, Israel’s settlement expansion along with brutal occupation and humiliation through check posts in Palestine must be condemned unequivocally to reflect fairness and United States commitment to an independent two state solution in the region.

To summarize the first State of the Union address by President Barack Obama, the content was relevant with the economy being the primary focus and the well-articulated objectives strengthened the urgency to act on the issues confronting the nation.

The presentation was immaculate for it had the measured composure and at the same time the passionate delivery revealed empathy, resilience and resolve to energize the party members and the democratic base especially after being let down in the preceding political upheavals.

Now, the responsibilities lie with the Congress members of both political parties to lay their ideological differences aside and coalesce to pass the legislations designed to alleviate the average Americans’ suffering, for which the representatives were elected.

The people on their part, i.e. the students, working families, senior citizens, businesses and alike have a unique opportunity to renew democracy by calling the local representatives in the House and the Senate to pass the pending legislations on financial reform, health care and climate bill.

Democracy is efficient with the main street activism to promote the desired ‘Change,’ in Washington and Wall Street.

When we could succeed in 2008, we will do so in 2010, if you make it possible.

Please extend your support to our President Barack Obama and those Congress members who are devoted to your interest and not the special interests.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Reconfiguration of the U.N.Security Council

August 9, 2009

By Padmini Arhant

“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” – simple yet meaningful creation by the renowned American Poet – Robert Lee Frost.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

Only if the authorities in power – the corporations and the governments alike, in the contemporary world honor the commitment to their people and prioritize the promise to the general population over personal quest for profit, privilege, prestige and politics,

Perhaps, it might be possible to wipe out the global problems such as poverty, disease and war polluting the planet and restore the deep, dark and lovely woods that once used to be the nature’s paradise.

The past week event involving the release of two American journalists – Laura Ling and Euna Lee through high profile diplomacy aided with the former President Bill Clinton’s visit is a confirmation that communication and dialogue can be effective in resolving international crisis.

Congratulations! to President Bill Clinton on the job well done and the American citizens Laura Ling and Euna Lee on the reunion with their respective families. The former Presidents’ expertise and popularity always remains a valuable asset to the nation and the international community.

The world is not a safe place than it was before. In fact, in the nuclear era and arms proliferation – the trading of conventional and modern weaponry particularly the nuclear arsenal is a major threat to global security. It’s not the question of who’s entitled to the possession of new age weapons of mass destruction gauged by the threats materializing into action and the responsible vs. irresponsible nuclear ownership etc.

Whenever there is a hierarchy in terms of quantity and superiority, it foments a possibility for back channel arms race or illicit exchange of the nuclear technology as it is prevalent now. It’s relevant to the recently intercepted cargo shipment allegedly containing nuclear materials from North Korea to yet another brutal regime Burma.

Even though, the recent agreement between the United States and Russia in the arms reduction including the non-proliferation of nuclear warheads is significant due to President Obama’s strategy, the desire among other nations like North Korea and Iran to be a nuclear power is symbolic not to mention the defiance towards the Superpower and the United Nations.

The present volatility in international security stems from the lack of trust and cooperation among the major players in control of the world security and economic prosperity and their undue dominance for five decades yielding the status quo counter-productive. The focus is directly on the United Nations Security Council permanent membership.

U.N.Security Council originally set up with the five nations permanent membership following the major world wars I and II in identification of the role and economic status then, does not synchronize with the present reality.

Besides the poor achievements or the lack thereof on global fronts i.e. economic, political and environmental issues by the exclusive body, the obvious polarization within the P5 or the permanent membership club has been detrimental for the world security and prosperity.

The P5 has demonstrated politics more than delivering solutions on many international crises rendering the United Nations most important component redundant and controversial. The council’s inability in arriving at a consensus on crucial international matters due to predictable action by members exhibiting economic and political clout is strongly indicative of its impotence in the decision making process.

Much to the frustration and disappointment of other big and small nations, the P5 management of genuine global catastrophes ranging from nuclear containment or disarmament to alleviating poverty, hunger and disease has been a miserable failure. Any positive results in the latter attributable to the relentless work by the non-governmental and non-profit organizations funded through private endowments and caring international groups.

Again, not all P5 members meet the criteria primarily based on economic status given the conspicuous shift in the current world economic dynamics. Notwithstanding, the precipitous decline of P5 performance in hosts of issues particularly with respect to North Korea, Iran, Burma and other despot leaderships around the world, unequivocally requiring the urgent expansion of the Security Council from P5 to P11.

Further, the ‘so-called’ P5 and Plus in reference to the western ally Germany as a defacto member of the U.N.Security Council regarded hypocritical by the deserving and true economic powers seeking permanent membership for years only to be declined noting obvious reasons reminiscent of the twentieth century imperialism not in concurrence with the new millennium geo-economic and political setting.

P5’s likely opposition and reluctance to the proposal possibly viewed as a monopoly of the power, thereby unnecessarily creating opportunities for aptly qualified potential members to seek alternatives undermining the P5 course of action in the regional and worldwide issues.

Apart from the Security Council permanent membership enlargement, the U.N. Preamble is due for review and modification in the permanent members’ tenure depending on the member track record to world peace, progress and prosperity. Otherwise, the U.N. Security Council permanent membership no longer set in stones as a guaranteed life-long privilege for the perceived presumptuous players despite them abdicating responsibilities, and voting rights abuse on global matter witnessed until date.

To reiterate, under the new structure, the permanent membership will be strictly merit based and humanitarian objectives attained collectively from the individual member contribution. Non-cooperative members on universal cause viz. defense programs and warfare, environment…disqualified and replaced with other aspirants subject to eligibility conditions.

In light of the true perspective, the new members to the imminent expanded P11 Security council, in addition to the existing ones – United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia and China are:

Brazil, Japan, India, South Africa, Germany and UAE (United Arab Emirates) assuming functions of the permanent council members in the leadership role for the respective regions reflecting diligence and fair representation anchored on promoting regional trade, security, economic prosperity, cultural exchange and eventually nuclear disarmament.

The inevitable expansion in addition to the prevailing U.N. temporary membership on roster allowing other U.N. members to participate in the international resolution to global issues is the only and concrete remedy for the burgeoning arms deal, human rights violation, illegal occupation of lands, economic disparities, natural disasters and last but not the least global warming.

As stated above, the five members council neither adequately represents nor addresses the growing demands by the rest of the world in terms of political, economic, energy, social, cultural, and environmental challenges.

Therefore, it is incumbent on the United Nations to pursue the proposal set forth for immediate reorganization of the Security Council irrespective of the five members dissent or approval in accordance with the new world order.

Reconfiguration of the Security Council would provide positive outcome with majority voting
in favor of curbing international threats and terrorism, nuclear non-proliferation leading to disarmament by all nations, economic prospects, and political stability by liberating occupied lands as well as containing if not eliminating miseries in the impoverished regions of the world.

The recommended action targeted towards power and responsibility sharing among other economic and democratic/progressive nations rather than the continuation of twentieth century dominance proven ineffective in advancing the humanitarian rights and goals.

Finally, Congratulations are in order for the new member nations to the Security Council –

Brazil, Japan, India, South Africa, Germany and UAE (United Arab Emirates)

Appropriately representing the continents/regions considering their contributions to the world economic, political and international security.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Too Good to be True

August 2, 2009

By Padmini Arhant

Throughout history, human reaction to anything unknown, unfamiliar is to cast a shadow of doubt and skepticism reminiscent of “Jesus archetype.”

Human nature is to probe and draw conclusions based on the personal understanding or the lack thereof regardless of the consequences from such action. In the earlier days, it’s a collective effort usually orchestrated by a prominent individual or a group using affluence to influence the mass conception.

When a Jewish born shepherd descended upon earth to spread the message from the celestial supreme being on the birth of a new religion called Christianity adding diversity to the religious sphere, it created pandemonium across the social and religious helm.

The preacher then misconstrued as an impostor denied access to public discourse by the presumptuous lords on the earth holding themselves to the highest moral decorum later proven otherwise among many.

What’s the change between the ancient and modern times in the treatment of presumed paranormal events?

In the olden days, they crucified them and in the modern days they vilify them.

It’s important to relate to the contemporary moment and put the hysteria to rest.

When an individual contributes to public affairs as a citizen journalist through blog posts on sensitive topics, the content evaluated to suit one’s own belief, experience, ideology and personal discretions.

It applies to most publications with fewer exceptions.

Although, the recent battery of charges, innuendoes and insinuations are nothing new considering the dramatic 2008 Presidential campaign saga prompting behind the scenes scrutiny of the nuisance ‘blogger’ in the national political arena touted as an ‘unqualified’ and ‘illiterate’ foreigner, a possible liaison of undesirable elements…i.e.

Padmini Arhant, an American of Indian (India) origin, a Californian resident, the author, editor and publisher of the website www.padminiarhant.com. The unquenchable quest for information on the force behind the voice continues until date.

The probable cause related to the absence of Western education particularly the elite institutions, publications (personal or ghost written) CEO of AIG, BEAR STEARNS, WORLD COM, ENRON synonymous… aside from personal characteristics like ethnicity, religion, language, gender and last but not the least detailing to the appearance of shape, size, no glitz or glamor.

Despite releasing the comprehensive personal profile for Universal view on the cyber space, the propaganda and malicious rumors with incendiary comments such as:

‘Why can’t the blogger preparing the political meal with a hot sauce step up and reveal thyself as the masked Zorro rather than a street thug with a truncheon” – The pleasantry from an overarching local beholding himself to the absolute form of transparency in the personal accusation of someone he is clueless about.

“The Corporate Bashing, Anti- Profit Martian and Communist” – Comment from a network specializing in divisive, polarizing demagoguery, otherwise desperate journalism – (Obviously, the compliment resulting from the ‘Corporate mismanagement of health care and economy’ enlightened on the cited website).

Here is a personal tip to the controversy. How about an alien from Mercury – Reference Greek Mythology?

Perhaps might provide a clue to the trivial pursuit.

Besides the flattery from the predictable irate representatives of the ‘so-called’ civil interests, the spotlight craving divas of politico domain with serious credibility issues had similar sentiments in the spirit of camaraderie.

One of them abandoning the electorate and quitting the national scene in breach of ethical laws not to mention the abuse of power berated ‘Hollywood’ with a special reference to a ‘tiny starlet’ implying the subject likely crawling instead of walking upright arousing further suspicion about the alleged alien pretending to be a homosapien.

Likewise, the other proclaimed to be liberal, suffering from distinctive syndrome parading cable and other major networks to promote the re-publishing of ghost written events refreshed with unattributed work from others, remarked about the current ‘ethnic minority’ phase apart from psychoanalyzing the blogger with a possible native accent and therefore not in the public eye. After being disappointed with the false prediction, the diva’s turnaround was the accent is perhaps ‘put on’ improvised, hence not authentic. In all likelihood, not an American.

In addition, the same entity did not fall short of providing the unauthorized blogger’s details on Google map through their official on-line publication political website as a revelation to the national and international community at large. Again linking without prior consent or knowledge. Further, the blogger’s campaign donation to Obama candidacy highlighted as a matter of concern during the election while ignoring the AIG executives’ personal donations to political campaigns listed on the www.padminiarhant.com.

So much for responsible journalism!

The identity politics attack on new voices by the insecure selective media and certain press corps including the on-line publications as mentioned above, signify emulation arising from acute shortage of integrity and ethics.

In light of the ethno phobia environment, it’s poignant to flashback a historical political event involving the then reigning Colonial power of Great Britain and the previously agricultural India represented by the frail bespectacled, yet resilient individual named M.K.Gandhi

During the colonial occupation of India, the Prime Minister of Great Britain, Mr. Winston Churchill, often remembered by the present Western political figures in a positive frame of mind, constantly addressed the representative of the poor and the impoverished millions not only in the Indian soil but around the world, M.K.Gandhi as –

The “Half Naked Fakir” – the Urdu translation of Fakir is beggar.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was the “half naked beggar’ for the colonialists at that time. Since Gandhiji became the force to reckon with and a menace to the occupiers, he travelled to Britain not by ‘Air Force One’ equivalent, but instead sailed across the treacherous seas for weeks and months at a time. The mocked Indian was exemplary in the interpretation of the Colonial Power rule of law in their native language on their turf.

How did Great Britain receive Gandhiji?

Gandhiji frequently summoned and never seated by the over-lauded Winston Churchill, unabashedly denigrating the native of the occupied land as a ‘Half Naked Beggar.’

What a gargantuan army would not have attained, the iron-willed ‘half naked beggar’ eventually prevailed and achieved a monumental victory against the mighty Imperial power that came crumbling down and forced to quit India with the tail between their legs.

How did he do it?

As the pioneer of Peace and Non-violence, he grieved with the holocaust victims and at the same time bemoaned for the Palestinian rights and homeland. Gandhi as a true humanitarian brought the oppressive apartheid in South Africa to international focus and called for worldwide condemnation amidst Colonial era. He was the first international volunteer to picket against the Dutch Africans regime in South Africa.

Did he discriminate against the people of the Colonial nation, The Great Britain?

On the contrary, Gandhiji was instrumental in improving the conditions in terms of better wages for the ‘all white’ cotton mill workers in Manchester, England by threatening to boycott goods produced at the expense of the poor in England.

Gandhiji went on to become the inspiration and mentor for DR. Martin Luther King, Jr., and DR. Nelson Mandela committed towards freedom, equal rights and opportunities.

Gandhiji did not earn the title Mahatma (the superior soul, also the noble soul) for nothing.

Tragically, today some political figures, corporations, certain journalists, reporters in the press, media and airwaves propagate hatred; provoke thoughts aimed at the President of the United States as well as others selflessly dedicating their entire time towards national progress and humanitarian cause.

The present motto for even few established cable networks is –

Pandering to some by slandering others.

This article would be incomplete without stating the latest bizarre attempt to disparage the office of the Presidency by insisting that President Barack Obama is allegedly a foreigner confirmed through the clairvoyant’s crystal ball per the self-proclaimed prophets in the media posturing to speak nothing but the ‘Gospel’ Truth.

Unfortunately, these agents of divide and diminish policies suffer from selective amnesia as not long ago they were trying to amend the consitution to allow the Austrian born Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Republican Presidential candidate in the foreseeable future. As if, it’s not enough that the State of California’s progress held hostage, they wanted enlarged nationally.

Surely, events change according to the political dynamics for the insular groups shackled within the prism of narrow mind.

Another phenomenal fact pertaining to a foreigner embraced worldwide specifically in the United States is Lord Jesus, born in Bethlehem, a Palestinian City in the central West Bank.

Lord Jesus neither born in the United States of America, nor ever visited the continent.
Nevertheless, millions throng to the holy sons’ place of worship.

I hope that there will not be a time when Jesus’ birth certificate demanded to approve the worship of the savior and the true son of God, here in the United States, since the Lord is the ruler of the kingdom.

Indeed, Too good to be True.

The epitome of discriminatory practices clearly a reflection among the segment unable to distinguish illusion from reality and constantly strive to prove truth as false and falsehood an embodiment of truth.

Too much emphasis on the perishable body and very little concentration on the immortal soul,
only if one can find it within.

Illusion stems from ignorance and ignorance feeds hypocrisy.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant
(Author, Editor and Publisher of www.padminiarhant.com)