Iraq’s Election Results Favor Secular Government by leader Ayad Allawi
May 23, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
On May 16, 2010, Iraq’s electoral commission affirmation of a Sunni backed bloc led by the secular, Shiite leader, Ayad Allawi victory over the former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is a clear public mandate in the democratic election held on March 7, 2010.
Further, the election commission ruled out the voter fraud charges by the Shiite leader and the Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki after recount in the districts suspected of the alleged inaccuracy.
Hence, the new government with the Prime Minister Ayad Allawi to resume power in office is the electorates’ final decision in the prolonged electoral process that has contributed to sectarian violence due to partisanship sought by the homogenous Shiite party under the then Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.
The political standoff by the previous administration refusing to accept the democratic will has claimed many innocent lives of the Shiites and Sunni population through militants’ orchestrated bombings and explosions until now.
People of Iraq deserve peace and normal existence in a secular society.
The new government representing the diverse political factions in the coalition is the electorates’ choice and the sooner the government is formed, the better for national security.
Any unnecessary delay would exacerbate the situation exploited currently by the militants and the terror network affiliated to Al-Qaida.
Besides, it would allow the timely U.S. troop withdrawal per agreement between the two nations.
And,
Save the United States from the economic liability attributed to the alarming national deficit since the invasion and occupation of Iraq.
Unified Iraq is the strength to overcome the prevalent political and social discord.
The people of Iraq could reach out to one another in recognition of the millions of lives lost on all sides and lead their country towards political stability, economic and social progress to benefit all.
Prime Minister Ayad Allawi’s inclusive rather than exclusive coalition government is promising.
Perhaps, it could deliver the desirable outcome in liberating Iraq from cyclical violence.
Good Luck! And Best Wishes to the Prime Minister Ayad Allawi and the people of Iraq in their solidarity pledged to nation building.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Reconciliation for a New Beginning
May 5, 2010
Honorable. President Barack Obama
Dear Mr. President,
Thank you for the opportunity to clarify the position for a new beginning.
With deep appreciation for democracy, free speech and ethics, I reiterate the facts presented on this website.
I remain steadfast in my commitment to work for the people and serve our great country as well as the citizens across the globe.
Since my responsibilities are towards humanitarian peace and progress, besides environmental protection, I pledge unequivocal support to promote the daunting, yet noble cause in every aspect.
I do not have any doubts in reaching the milestones by working together with a common goal in the domestic and international matter.
However, I’m disappointed with the special interests’ control over the hard fought legislation against the democratic principles and consequently,
The electorate deprived of immediate and long lasting benefits.
Although, the trend is no revelation, there were tremendous expectations from the ‘Hope and Change’ promise made by your candidacy on the campaign trail.
Again, some argue that campaign promises are not always deliverable and, they define the default as the political norm.
That being the case, the voter frustration with any political party or candidate for the trust violation is justified.
Notwithstanding, the challenges originating from the misrepresentations during elections.
The consistent voting abstinence from the Republican members in Congress is visibly the sworn allegiance to various interests guiding the legislative process.
It is true that the health care legislation was a courageous step in Presidential history.
Nevertheless, the reform needs to be meaningful and,
I understand that you are in agreement with the health care bill lacking in serious competition without the federal programs for the vast majority.
Not surprisingly, the health care and insurance companies like their counterparts in other sectors welcome the federal funding and bailouts to facilitate their prosperity,
But, they are resilient to federal regulations and recommendations such as the Single Payer system.
It’s an uphill battle with every legislation because of the special interests’ investments in lobbying.
It could be easily overcome, if the candidates running for office decline the corporate financing and instead rely upon their ability in winning the public confidence by honoring the constitutional oath to serve the nation.
Now is the time to reverse the corporate dominance in legislation to favor the public interest.
The long held tradition has bankrupted the economy with multitrillion-dollar deficits and betrayed consumer rights.
Free market resistance to regulations through overindulgence in a democratic political system has backfired leading the economy to an abyss.
It cannot possibly continue forever. It’s unsustainable and evidenced in the domestic and global economy.
That’s why there was enormous faith in your Presidency to ‘Change’ the course and liberate the government from privatized status.
It’s never too late to act for better results and sometimes one has to strive hard to achieve the targets.
I believe that ‘Change,’ is necessary and extend my relentless cooperation to your administration and the elected officials on both sides of the political aisle provided the policies be implemented to protect the Main Street interest and the environment.
They are:
Campaign finance reform – barring corporate donations and eliminating loopholes towards campaign contributions,
Adherence to transparency and accountability in national and international affairs,
Medicare expansion via Single Payer system to contain costs and save life either through amendment or annexure by reallocating federal funding from the private health care.
Tough financial measures to prevent economic meltdown,
Job creation by reviving the manufacturing sector and boosting the small business/Retail industry –
The tax credits to the corporations and small businesses for hiring and retaining employees is praiseworthy.
Fiscal responsibility – National deficit reduction by enforcing the– “Waste not and Want not” ethic – beginning with defense budget spending is paramount.
Nuclear weapons eradication – Your efforts to gain international consensus is progressive and perhaps, persistence will yield the desirable outcome.
Environment by adopting clean renewable energy, which means abandoning offshore drilling, uranium and coal mining,
Maintaining K-12 and higher education funding as a prudent investment for a bright future – Federal funding has been impressive unlike certain states’ with misplaced priorities.
Social justice such as gay rights and fair immigration laws,
Similar approach in resolving international conflicts, establishment of peace and freedom for oppressed population –
Comprise the basic requirements.
Power is powerful when used to empower the powerless in the society and that being –
Secure jobs, 24/7 health care access, good education, safe environment and eternal peace.
I am optimistic that together we can accomplish the highlighted goals and proceed in a positive direction.
I look forward to working with you in all these issues and dedicate my service to humanity.
Sincerely,
Padmini Arhant
Welcome to a New Era!
April 12, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Dear Fellow Americans and Citizens of the World,
This morning a major decision was made to allow the smooth transition of Executive Power in the Oval Office.
It was done in order to move forward in achieving the domestic and international goals.
There are far too many challenges to deal with, here at home and abroad.
Beginning with politics, economics, health care, education, social issues, energy, environment, national and global security are the main issues.
In the United States, the economy and the health care legislation require fixing. There is an urgent need to expedite the job recovery and simultaneously revive the slow housing market.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the March unemployment rate remained at 9.7 percent with the number of unemployed persons at 15.0 million.
Of this data, the long term unemployed appears to have increased by 414,000 over to 6.5 million. Further, in March alone 44.1 percent have been unemployed for 27 weeks or more.
This is a difficult situation for the American families and the economy.
Extending the unemployment benefits along with resurrecting the manufacturing base, energize the small business and retail outlets including tax incentives to corporations should provide a reasonable relief to the job market.
The housing market experiencing foreclosures and credit crunch require immediate attention with credit flow and effective strategies to reverse the trend.
Therefore, the American families can retain their home values and for most of them, it would be the loan adjustment programs allowing them to make affordable payments in order to stay in their homes.
Both job and housing markets are dependent on credit supply.
The financial sector is due for a financial reform with the re-enactment of Glass Steagall Act along with an independent consumer rights agency to monitor the home loans, credit card and other retail transactions.
Reducing national deficit and fiscal responsibility will be a primary objective.
A thorough review of the financial market is essential to implement the regulations to protect the consumer, investor and the taxpayer from any future bailouts.
Health care legislation will be amended to conform with the ‘Medicare for all,’ Single Payer System and the necessary reform for the private industry to coexist as detailed in the ‘Universal Health Care’ article recently.
Education will be reviewed to address the funding status in terms of salaries to attract highly qualified teaching staff, school supplies and better facilities, curriculum to assist K-12 students in becoming more competitive at the local and international level.
Focus on Science, Math, Arts, languages, sports will be a priority including programs for students with special needs.
College education fees revised for the students from low-income families and federal grants for research and development to the state run institutions with an investment value return.
Social issues would involve immigration, gay rights; focus on improving poorer neighborhoods and community services, early child centers and senior citizens services to be renewed with an identifiable revenue source to fund the programs.
Energy Policy – Clean renewable energy will be pursued – Solar, wind, hydro thermal notwithstanding bio fuel to supplement the varying demand.
Environment – The Mexico summit in 2010 is crucial for the global nations to accomplish the COP15 agenda and other environmental issues.
National and Global Security – Troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan along with military budget divestments to Peace Corps and diplomacy will precede the extraordinary military budget consumption.
The national and global security issues – A departure from the activities since 2000-2010 on torture, overseas rendition, Guantanamo bay etc. in compliance with the humanitarian law.
High value terror related sources would be verified and structured accordingly to meet with the national as well as international security.
Socio-economic investments in the regions susceptible to terror recruitment will replace the military expenditure.
Economic aid to Africa, Middle East, Latin America, Asia and Island nations will be promoted.
Foreign Policy:
Israeli-Palestinian Peace Treaty – Independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. Palestine and Arab nations’ agreement on recognition of Israeli sovereignty and security. Freezing settlements and return of land to Palestine in the Palestinian territory.
Iran and North Korea – Strategic dialogues initiated with the governments. Efforts in outreaching the population of these countries by exchanging cultural, educational and travel activities would vastly improve the political situation.
Cuba – Dialogue and diplomacy with the Cuban government. Extending round trip travel for U.S. residents and the families in Cuba. Eliminate the trade embargo as it hurts the population more than the power.
Latin America – Democracy will always be favored over military regimes and repressive governments. Military base in these regions is to be withdrawn to ease tensions within borders.
Brazil – It’s an emerging economic power and a regional force in Latin America. There is hope and optimism in the relationship between the United States and Brazil.
Mexico – The drug related violence would be addressed by prohibiting the arms supply from the United States.
United Kingdom – The partner in the Afghan and Iraq war. The U.K and the U.S share a vision on many issues. Exchange intelligence information to safeguard global security and maintain the formidable unity between the two nations.
Russia – It is promising. U.S and Russia along with other nuclear powers should arrive at a consensus on complete nuclear disarmament.
Europe – Healthy relationship will continue and work together on economy, environment and energy policies.
Japan – Strong economic ties and strategic partnership to resolve the North Korean nuclear and political standoff in the Korean peninsula.
South Korea – Warm friendly relations reflected in economic trade, political and cultural exchange.
China – Beijing has been conciliatory on the currency value adjustment. It’s enormously encouraging.
However, fair trade practices towards foreign corporations could enhance the bilateral economic prospects.
Human rights issues in China and Independence for Tibet will commence shortly as part of the planetary preparation to form free nations on earth. I look forward to Beijing leaders’ positive reaction.
India – Many opportunities are on the horizon. Economic, environment, nuclear disarmament, energy and educational ties could mutually benefit the two popular democracies. Regional security in the Indian sub-continent and the Indo-China border would be a dominant issue.
Nepal – The nation at the Himalayan foothill should form a democratic government and not desire a communist system even in a coalition as it had experienced the political unrest from it. Nepal is a tourist attraction for the American tourists.
Pakistan – Similar relationship with that of India. Transform warfare into peace through investments in economic, social and educational projects. Collaborate on eradicating terrorism and share resources for common security.
Afghanistan – President Hamid Karzai’s administration has to disavow corruption and make the government more transparent. Peace with Taliban fighters willing to disarm is a good approach. It has to be a long-term commitment. Afghan government must start working on the economy and the infrastructure.
It’s understandable that it cannot make progress with the war on the Afghan soil. That’s why the troop withdrawal will be a priority beginning this year.
President Karzai should repeal the non-consensual consummation law against women and allocate funding for social advancement to uplift the women’s status. Nation building with international aid is the fundamental step towards progress.
Central Asia – Trade and economic cooperation in the region would be mutually beneficial.
Sri Lanka – The ethnic Tamil population and other minority groups deserve equal economic, educational and social rights particularly the political representation in the Sri Lankan Parliament.
Burma – Democracy is the preferred system by the Burmese population and the military junta should release the pro-democracy leader Ang Sang Suu Kyi for her participation in the national election. Burmese people have suffered long enough. It’s time for them to be free and lead the nation to the twenty first century.
Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam – The U.S relationship with all of these nations is solid and has a great potential to grow in many areas.
South Africa – An economic, cultural, environment and a peace partner with the United States. South Africa is the regional leader in Africa. There are lots to look forward to with the young democratic nation.
Rest of Africa – Renunciation of civil wars, military regimes and corruption is earmarked for the African nations. No more political instability and investments in conventional arms. Instead, African countries will be assisted to become the self-sufficient and economically vibrant region.
Middle East:
Saudi Arabia – Will continue to remain a strong ally of the United States.
The coalition government in Iraq with Sunni representation is important for the region. The United States and Saudi Arabia need to collaborate in helping Yemen economically that would alleviate the Yemeni plight and perhaps end the internal political turmoil. Moreover, the terror networks might find it hard to hire young recruits in a better economy.
Jordan – A great friend and an ally of the United States. The mutual aspiration to see a Palestinian state is imminent. Jordan’s economic and political partnership with the United States is poised for a continuous success.
Egypt – Is another vital representative and a key player in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
United States and Egypt go back a long way in the political remaking of the Middle East.
Like other nations, the people in Egypt yearn for freedom of expression and a free and fair election. Egypt could probably transcend the current system to enable the people rejoice their newfound liberty in the next election.
Iraq – Is unique like a phoenix. The latest general election dispute should be settled without any violence and the secular coalition government is the ideal political solution to bring peace to Iraq. United States troop withdrawal in 2010 would normalize the people’s existence in Iraq.
Syria and Lebanon – U.S. could have fresh diplomatic ties with both nations. At the same time, it’s best for Israel, Syria and Lebanon to reconcile the differences and aim for a peaceful beginning.
Peace is attainable with peace seekers perseverance.
UAE & Bahrain, Qatar and the Rest of the Middle East:
Economic ties and military cooperation with all of these nations are good. Much to anticipate in the long run.
Australia – The land of OZ is a beautiful country with common democratic principles. Environment, nuclear disarmament, renewable energy, trade and commerce create tremendous outcome for both U.S and Australia.
New Zealand – United States and New Zealand could become leading partners in green technology and explore other trade partnerships.
All other island nations across the globe – Each one of you are equally important and the United States will work with you to resolve the environmental threats you face in the rapidly changing climate. We should strive to reach an agreement during the Mexico summit in 2010. In addition, the U.S. will coordinate efforts in the economic, energy and all other fronts.
I welcome you all to a new era. I request that we put our differences aside and work together in harmony for a peaceful, brighter and prosperous world.
We must reject war for peace. Let there be freedom for all with none held against their will.
As the earth’s inhabitants, we have individual responsibility to preserve the habitat for eternal life.
We can make it possible collectively in appreciation of nature’s gift to humanity.
May God bless all and the Planet Earth.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
President of the United States
Oath of office of the President of the United States
April 12, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
45th President of the United States
I, Padmini Achintya Arhant do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Afghan War after Troops Increase
April 1, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The latest on Afghan war after adding more troops to the nine-year-old battle, a contentious debate that was dominant last year.
Associated Press – Sunday, March 28, 2010.
By Sebastian Abbot – Thank you.
“Troop deaths rise in Afghanistan – Numbers soaring as U.S. adds soldiers
Kabul – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum.
Those deaths have been accompanied by a dramatic spike in the number of wounded, with injuries more than tripling in the first two months of the year and trending in the same direction based on the latest available data for March.
U.S. officials have warned that casualties are likely to rise further as the Pentagon completes its deployment of 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan and sets its sight on the Taliban’s home base of Kandahar province, where a major operation is expected in the coming months.
“We must steel ourselves, no matter how successful we are on any given day, for harder days yet to come,” Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a briefing last month.
In total, 57 U.S. soldiers were killed here during the first two months of 2010 compared with 28 in January and February of last year, an increase of more than 100 percent, according to Pentagon figures compiled by the Associated Press.
At least 20 American service members have been killed so far in March.
The steady rise in combat deaths has generated less public reaction in the United States than the spike in casualties in the summer and fall, which undermined public support in the United States for the mission here.
Fighting typically tapers off in Afghanistan during the winter but peaks in the summer.”
————————————————————————————————–
War Strategy Assessment – By Padmini Arhant
The troops increase to Afghanistan was a national debate last year with mixed reaction from all sources.
It’s important to emphasize that there wasn’t an overwhelming public support to the additional troops deployment in Afghanistan.
There were many reasons for the lack luster response.
Among them, the most relevant ones being:
The U.S. and allies’ nomination of President Hamid Karzai as the head of the government for second term defied the Afghan people’s will.
Notwithstanding, the international outrage on the fraudulent general election that led to the opponent, DR. Abdullah Abdullah’s withdrawal from the election.
Another factor is the U.S. occupancy in Afghanistan approaching a decade and the constantly changing ‘purpose’ behind the mission remains intriguing until now.
After much deliberation, President Barack Obama decided to approve the request from the defense high command and argued, “It’s not an easy decision to do so.”
Indeed, pledging the troops’ lives to succeed in the targeted goals is never a simple action.
However, a prolonged war provides enough evidence to consider winding up the operation or at least minimize the troop level by supplementing with diplomacy and peaceful negotiations.
Peace and diplomacy could have prevailed with a democratically elected government. It was thwarted by the U.S. endorsement of an unpopular candidate.
Further, the explanation for more troops involved the U.S and NATO efforts to restore political stability in Afghanistan and terminate the Taliban/Al-Qaida activities.
The irony is, the Afghanistan political situation under the U.S. backed Karzai government shows no improvement in governance, despite the incumbent Afghan President being the U.S. foreign policy designates’ choice.
Similarly, the shift in the U.S. and Afghan government’s strategy towards Taliban insurgents appears to be a new approach to win the militants on their side with cash payments and abandoning the poppy fields eradication – the main source of income for the Taliban forces.
An action that is widely criticized by the human rights groups against narcotics in Afghanistan.
As predicted, the tension between the Karzai government and the U.S. administration has surfaced confirming the mistrust in the relationship.
While the political stalemate between the authorities in Kabul and Washington persists, the mounting U.S. casualties in the Afghan war cannot be ignored.
Troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and Iraq is no longer a choice but an immediate requirement to end the procrastinated occupation in foreign lands.
Divestment from wars to social and economic development in these regions must begin to reflect the sincere commitment to bring hope and opportunity in a society deprived of normal existence for decades.
Substituting the combat troops with Peace Corps eliminates the tragic loss of lives on all sides.
In addition, the peaceful atmosphere would deter terror recruitment and foster an environment for the youth as well as others to build their nations towards a positive direction.
Now is the time for the U.S. authorities in the White House, Pentagon and the State department to relinquish failed policies that is proved a liability claiming precious lives and contributing to the rising deficit.
War leads to grief, revenge and destruction.
Whereas, peace is an eternal bliss.
I convey my condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and pray for the early recovery of the wounded brave hearts.
Your sacrifice makes freedom possible for all.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
U.S. and Russia Nuclear Arms Reduction Treaty
March 27, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The world’s nuclear prolific nations, U.S and Russia agreed to sign a long overdue nuclear weapons treaty or the strategic arms reduction treaty (S.T.A.R.T) reportedly to reduce the warhead arsenals by one-third with the possibility to lead the international community towards a complete nuclear disarmament.
It’s a phenomenal step towards peace and a path to a nuclear free environment.
The U.S. President Barack Obama and the Russian President Dmitry Medvedev deserve praise for the courage reflected in their action against the potent threat to global security in the twenty first century.
Without a shadow of doubt, the leaderships’ initiative is a cornerstone for the NPT (Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty) conferences in the immediate future.
I hope that other nuclear nations would follow suit with their rivals and earnestly strive to depart from the nuclear era.
There is also an urgent need to address the conventional arms race alongside the nuclear proliferation.
If the industrialized and the developed nations prioritize the defense budget divestment to socio-economic development in the domestic and foreign policy,
It would not only expedite the economic recovery but also spearhead the necessity to alleviate hunger, poverty and disease among the poorest nations.
War spending and national security against terrorism consumes enormous proportion in the fiscal budget and the peace efforts in every possible dimension could promote the required economic, social and political progress in the vulnerable regions of the world.
Besides, the volatility experienced globally could be eliminated with the troops withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan as well as the U.S. military base overseas.
In addition, transforming the military aid to an economic assistance in Yemen and countries alike is guaranteed to detract the potential recruits targeted by the terror networks.
Further, the improvement in economic conditions is directly related to renunciation of violence.
The global terrorism is attributed to economic plight, social injustice and political instability.
Therefore, any incremental positive measures in the nuclear front and traditional warfare is immensely beneficial to humanity.
Bilateral approach between the nuclear powers, U.S and Russia and their perseverance in the denuclearization including the civilian nuclear program abandonment would deter the controversial Iranian nuclear crisis from worsening.
Moreover, it would set precedence for other nuclear states to adopt similar strategies – resulting in a multilateral decision for a peaceful future.
Another poignant element being, the foreseeable consensus in the nuclear matter removes the obstacles for the clean renewable energy resources desirable to resolve the climate change issue confronting the earth population.
In fact, the U.S. – Russian pact is a great new beginning for a better world.
On that optimistic note, I look forward to the world leaders reaching more milestones in the global affairs.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Weekly Events Synopsis
March 27, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
This week, President Barack Obama and the Democratic Congress secured three major achievements of national and international significance.
Beginning with the latest event:
The world’s prolific nuclear nations, U.S and Russia signed a long overdue nuclear weapons treaty reportedly to reduce the warhead arsenals by one-third with the hope to lead the international community towards a complete nuclear disarmament.
Housing market revival through programs targeting foreclosure for millions of homeowners.
And
National Health Care Legislation – is a historic victory for the democrats and the Obama Presidency.
A review and analysis on these topics is in progress.
Your patience is much appreciated.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Subliminal Attacks – A new wave Politics
March 8, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
I would like to thank the visitors to the website www.padminiarhant.com in the United States, India and around the world.
Your love and support makes the effort worthwhile.
As stated in the profile, the website objective is to promote peace, progress and prosperity for all with a major focus on protecting the environment, the only ideal habitat for living species in the universe, thus far.
It is depicted in the logo – Save the Planet,and Peace on Earth.
That being the goal, I express my gratitude and deep appreciation to the readers of my articles for taking the time to read and reflect on the topic.
In coherence with the paradoxical universe,
Success is greeted with genuine affection and enthusiasm for its representation – obviously from the supporters.
Likewise, it’s also subject to hostility, propaganda and rejection – by the opposition.
The purpose of the material on the website is to engage the like and the unlike minds in a serious thinking process beyond surface review in order to understand the self-created complexity largely responsible for the global status quo.
Criticisms are directed in many different ways. Constructive criticisms enhance quality.
Targeted criticisms often subvert facts with fiction and personal convictions.
Earlier on the element of truth was explained in a manner to allow rational thinking to prevail over confusion and distortion.
When viewed with an open mind, the articles on the website have invariably defended the weak, the oppressed, the disadvantaged and the victims of mass deception –
Dissenting authoritarianism against innocent population.
In many featured visual content, the protesters represented by the unarmed civilians and the monks were waving a white flag and a peace sign during their peaceful demonstrations for freedom and justice only to be mercilessly hurt and killed in response.
The individualism – “Me, Myself and I” restraints outreach to the less fortunate.
Saving humanity from a myriad of defiant forces is a horrendous task especially when the violators are powerful and immunized against reconciliation for common good.
Synopsis of requests made thus far:
Campaign Finance Reform – Public funded elections poignantly after the Supreme Court decision in Corporations’ favor.
Preserving American jobs by resurrecting the manufacturing sector and small businesses.
Universal Health Care for all – Single Payer System.
Tough Financial Reform – to protect average citizens from predatory and fraudulent practices, providing a safety net for the domestic economy and the global financial market.
Strong Environment Policies – fossil fuel and nuclear energy abandonment.
Public Education – Free higher education for students from average income families.
Economic and Social Justice – Gay rights and legalization of the undocumented workers in the country. Bridging the gap between the rich and the poor. Reviving the middle class in the society.
Nuclear Weapons – eliminating hierarchy prevalent under the pretext of the responsible factor and truthful disclosure on complete nuclear disarmament worldwide.
War and Military Base – Troop withdrawal, the prolonged military operations termination and defense budget divestment in the domestic economy including economic and social development in the war zones.
Being a reliable peace partner in international conflicts particularly Israel and Palestine,
Freedom for Tibet, Burma, North Korea, and Iran and curtail military coups like in Honduras, Haiti, vulnerable nations in Africa and Latin America on the United States watch.
Closure of Guantanamo bay and relinquish torture of terror suspects that’s in violation of the Geneva Convention.
Investigation of illegal invasion of Iraq war and judicial trial against the torture memo author Professor Yoo and others to prevent history repeating itself in the future.
Finally, the ordinary and the extraordinary have to leave this planet sometime in their lifetime in accordance with natural process.
Hence peace and empathy would make the world a better place for all.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Haiti – Securing the Caribbean Nation’s Future
March 1, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The island nation in the western hemisphere is still struggling to deal with the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that caused an estimated three hundred thousand lives and millions displaced in the capital, Port-Au-Prince.
International aid, particularly from the United States and the global community to the relief organizations was significant for it helped in saving lives.
Despite the efforts, the suffering is far from over. The Haitian government is gradually addressing the humongous challenges following the catastrophe. Due to lack of resources, the government and the citizens were ill prepared for the calamity.
It’s noticeable in the comparison between Haiti and Chile, the recent earthquake victim.
Although, Chile has lost lives in the natural disaster, fortunately the death toll is proportionately less considering the greater magnitude than the one in Haiti.
Nevertheless, every life matters and the governments’ capabilities to restore normalcy is often tested during such national crisis.
Then there are displacement issues that are more demanding, with the population exodus from the disaster areas. If it’s harder for rich nations to cope with the tremendous humanitarian tasks after the natural events as seen during Katrina, it’s even more difficult for the poorer countries to salvage.
In Haiti’s case, the nation has been subject to prolonged foreign occupation and intervention initially by the French colonial power and,
Subsequently through U.S policy that enabled the military coups including the abduction of the democratically elected President Jean-Bertinand Aristide, currently forced into exile in South Africa and,
The U.S economic policy, that allowed corporations to dismantle the functioning economic structure established during the rare peaceful political atmosphere in Haiti.
Even though, the United States is currently making concessions to accept the earthquake victims as asylum seekers, the U.S foreign policy contributing to Haiti’s status quo cannot be ignored.
The present U.S gesture is admirable.
However, the previous administrations’ policy has transformed the once self-supportive Haitians into economic refugees in their soil.
U.S performance with respect to the military coups in Latin America has been consistent and Haiti is no exception.
The latest being the Honduran political crisis in 2009 – when the democratically elected President Manuel Zelaya, now exiled in Costa Rica, was ousted from power through coup d’état on the United States’ watch.
Providing economic aid to Haiti would temporarily ease the burden on the incumbent President, René Préval’s government.
Regardless of the commitment term, it’s not guaranteed to relieve the people from the worst economic conditions.
What the Haitian population require at the moment is not an extemporaneous political status, represented by the United States appointee – President René Préval,
Instead a viable government led by an experienced leadership of the republic choice, the President in exile – Jean Bertinand Aristide.
The Superpower interference in democratically elected government affairs has been detrimental to the natives and the entire region. Whether it’s Haiti, or for that matter Iran in the Middle East.
It’s inconceivable that the citizens are barred from residency in their country of birth or naturalization for political reasons imposed by the foreign powers.
Reference :
The exiled Haitian President Jean-Bertinand-Aristide and the Honduran President Manuel Zelaya, having been democratically elected continue to remain popular in their country of origin until now. Yet, they both are denied access to their country.
Again, it’s poignant to raise the conspicuous flaws or hypocrisy in the U.S foreign policy that is diametrically opposed on issues even when related to a singular nation like China or Israel…and justifiably condemned by the people worldwide.
For example, “The current U.S foreign policy with China” –
U.S is conciliatory to China’s occupation of Tibet irrespective of the prevalent persecution and mass killings of the peaceful Tibetans, including Beijing’s furor over the spiritual leader, His Holiness Dalai Lama’s truncated meeting with President Obama.
The U.S. position is claimed as a tough decision because of the “economic ties” with the communist nation.
On the other hand, the contemporary U.S agreement on Arms sales worth $8 billion with Taiwan, antagonizing the U.S. major creditor, China is somehow not considered an economic impediment.
Ref: Congressional Research Service – http://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL30957.pdf – Thank you.
Taiwan: Major U.S. Arms Sales since 1990.
Taiwan arms sale to test US-China ties – www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/2437419/posts –
“Many Taiwanese, however, consider Washington’s willingness to sell defensive weapons as a sign of enduring US commitment to a longtime ally …”
Likewise, U.S. policy towards Israel – The condemnation of Iran for the inflammatory remarks against Israel was appropriate.
Reportedly, the U.S. has not ruled out military action against Iran for the nuclear program.
Further, the hawkish representatives in Washington have earlier stated the use of nuclear weapons in this context.
Ironically, with Palestine –
The U.S. is passive on the provocative Jewish settlements in West Bank and East Jerusalem as well as the National Heritage controversy, notwithstanding the Israeli authorities’ persisting oppression of the Palestinians – all of which are attributed to the past and the present peace process failure.
United States credibility as the “leader of the Free World,” is jeopardized because of the explicit double standards in the U.S foreign policy.
Haitian exiled President Jean-Bertinand- Aristide’s return to his native country is the honorable decision and a unique opportunity for the United States to remedy the former administrations’ undemocratic interception in the stable Haitian government then elected by the people.
The Republic of Haiti deserves a government that has the potential to revive the economic prospects that prevailed under Aristide’s Presidency.
Hence, upon the exiled leader’s arrival in his homeland, the ex-President would be able to participate in the 2010 elections and elected to the office with a resounding victory.
Indeed, that would be the best gift for the political and the natural disaster victims in Haiti.
Finally, Humanity owes it to Haiti in ending the population plight.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
His Holiness Dalai Lama in Spotlight
February 23, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
His Holiness Dalai Lama was a guest at the CNNs Larry King Live show on Monday, February 22, 2010.
During the interview, the host Larry King stated,
“Most Americans do not want the United States relationship strained with China over Tibet’s independence.”
Interestingly, Mr. Larry King did not provide any specifics like who exactly these Americans are, the pollster name and details for authenticity.
Such position could not be from the mainstream population given the fact that by and large American people are samaritans and strong believers of democracy including human rights for them and others.
That being the case, it makes one wonder –
Like everything else is Made in China, if the questionnaire for this interview was possibly,
Prepared by China or Beijing’s representatives in the United States due to the provocative and insensitive questions posed in the interview.
Should a major international network like CNN compromise on substance to boost rating?
As for the alleged statement cited by the CNN talk show host, the anonymous individuals prioritizing economic opportunities over Tibetan people’s freedom cannot be living in the,
Land of the Free, Home of the Brave.
More likely, they belong to the – Land of the Narcissists, Home of the Hypocrites.
The people of the oppressed nation, Tibet may not necessarily be the strongest ally of the United States for whom the latter poised as the leader of the free world would not undertake risks against the invader and persecutor, the Communist China, like it did in 1991 –
When the U.S and allies waged war against Iraq in retaliation to Iraq’s President Saddam Hussein’s invasion of a comparatively small kingdom, the oil rich Kuwait,
Or for that matter,
Threatening to wipe out (Obliterate with nuclear weapons- the rhetoric during Presidential campaign) anyone harassing the nuclear armed Israel, the United States surrogate partner in the middle east despite Israel prominently established as the Neo-Imperialist in the region.
Is freedom a natural right and an entitlement for the privileged while remaining a fantasy for the weak and defenseless?
What would be the twenty first century like in the absence of the following events?
The women’s suffrage movement leading to the women’s vote in the United States of America.
If, President Abraham Lincoln had not ended slavery.
A young civil rights leader DR. Martin Luther King daring to dream a world without prejudice.
If, a resilient leader Mahatma Gandhi had failed in the non-violence principle to free his nation from two hundred years of colonialism.
Creating the state of Israel in OId Palestine amid Arab disagreement in the aftermath of holocaust.
The fall of Berlin wall and Eastern Bloc nations set free from the former Soviet Union.
Liberation of South Africa from the brutal apartheid.
Likewise, Independence for the small island nation East Timor -after prolonged tyranny and massacre.
Emancipation of human beings is not up to free individuals or the oppressive authority to decide whether the enslaved are eligible for liberty or not.
Reiterating the earlier message – All living beings are created equal and born to be free.
The people in Tibet, Palestine, Iran, North Korea, Myanmar, Afghanistan and the nations in Africa, Middle East, and Latin America are no exception to this natural rule of law.
No military might and economic power can continue to suppress the freedom of the population for their false sense of political superiority.
His Holiness Dalai Lama for diplomacy sake could seek autonomy rather than independence for the persecuted and tortured six million Tibetans on account of Tibet’s economic dependency on China.
China’s communist politburo decline political freedom and economic opportunities for long oppressed Tibetans in the Buddhist land.
However, India and South Africa would not be independent had they been abandoned under similar notion that the fate of the several millions are better off as the oppressed minority in their domicile.
Every tribe, community and society has leadership potential to guide and govern the people irrespective of the economic and educational status.
It’s an innate quality provided by nature and commonly seen throughout the animal kingdom.
Because of human greed to amass wealth and territories poignantly,
China – In spite of being third largest nation by total area and the second largest in land area, Beijing authorities insist on retaining Tibet, Xinjiang province, annexing Taiwan and currently eying on neighbor India.
Furthermore, the Chinese Communist rule conspicuously reining in on the most powerful nation, the United States transformed into a subservient economic debtor through unfair trade practices.
Not barring the Most Favored Nation (MFN) status, WTO membership and veto power in the UN Security Council consistently abused by the Communist nation at any given time.
Again, the United States and allies biased treatment of other communist nations is noteworthy.
Cuba and North Korea are incessantly subject to economic sanctions for a variety of reasons ranging from human rights violation to the nuclear standoff.
On the other hand, China, the ultimate communist authority with gross human rights violation and utter disregard for international rule of law is granted immunity based on the emerging economic power status by the democratic nations.
United States lacking in political will and corporations with investments in China are pressuring media to evade democracy depriving the people of Tibet the political freedom.
Then the real power – the people as consumers from all walks of life across the world should prove that the political and economic stakeholders can no longer determine the destiny of human beings.
Worldwide boycott of Made in China goods along with investments withdrawal from the state controlled Chinese holdings by humanitarians, democracy and peace seekers for all contrary to the selective few could lead to the beginning of the end of the communist rule in China and elsewhere.
Not long ago, in the latter part of the twentieth century i.e. during the cold war, the former Soviet Union was formidable opponent of the United States.
Lo and behold, the iron curtain dropped astonishing the rest of the world in marking the end of the repressive rule.
History is testimony to the fact that the rise and fall of empire and emperors not attributed to honorable surrendering of power or the oligarchs’ magnanimity but instead the voice for democracy within and outside oppressed nations have enabled the political transition.
With an inevitable freedom for the people of Tibet, Palestine, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea and others, the optimism will prevail over the lingering insecurity among the authorities and their proxies in the political and economic domain.
Caring, compassionate and peace activists from around the world must stage a non-violent protest and display solidarity in the freedom movement for Tibet, Palestine…the only hope and a guaranteed victory towards democracy for these nations.
Finally, the consumer power always succeeds against any economic and political power.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
PadminiArhant.com