a1370: Re: a1363: Re: a1321: Open discussion: Please voice your Opinion (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: Greg Bryant <gregandsusan@rainbowtel.net>

I'll chime in, too, on the possibility and usefulness of a compromise
between Lavalas and Convergence. In my opinion:

Convergence is a minority force with precious little electoral mandate, yet
for some reason it expects not only equal voice in the government, but
actual dominance and (apparently) ouster of all or part of the incumbent
(elected) government.

When tiny minorities elsewhere in the world -- religious extremists,
peasant groups, and so on -- make lots of noise to sidestep the electoral
route to power, they usually have at least the moral foundation of being
powerless and poor. This is not the case with Convergence. Despite their
negligible electoral base, they are typically very well off and have their
hands on the ropes of many of Haiti's profit centers... and we must never
mention that they also enjoy the overt and covert financial, propaganda,
and military support of the United States of America and the international
financial organizations that the USA dominates.

In fact without these clear advantages, the leaders of Convergence would
never be able to make so much noise with so little actual risk to their
lives and personal fortunes. They would have to make real sacrifices to
wreak political havoc, as others are doing throughout the world.

Let's not lump Convergence in with the oppressed minorities of the world.
They are an OPPRESSIVE minority with real financial and political power.
They have no right to pretend they have electoral power as well. No
compromise with them seems appropriate. (I don't really think compromise is
even possible, but that's another argument. Certainly not possible within
the realm of justice.)

They deserve a voice in government, but then they already have that.

Greg Bryant
Kansas