I'm no fan of Venezuela's democratically elected leader Hugo Chavez. My most recent criticism of his regime generated quite a bit of flack. But my friend Mark, far more anti-Chavez than myself, pointed out an interesting hypocrisy.
Chavez's assault on Venezuelan broadcasters, press freedom, the judiciary and the political opposition has rightly generated him an avalanche of international condemnation. From conservatives and from the Bush administration, but from many progressive quarters (including myself) and human rights groups as well.
Eight years after stealing power in a military coup, Pakistan's dictator Gen. Pervez Musharraf has also launched an assault against the media, the press and the judiciary. American press coverage of this crackdown has been negligible. Outrage has been virtually nil. Particularly in comparison to the cacaphony of anti-Chavez tirades that still ring in the ear.
The State Department's comment: "There have been advances in bringing greater freedoms, including greater freedom of the press, in Pakistan over the years under President Musharraf's government. There have been some openings in that regard. Certainly nobody would want to see those openings reversed."
A pathetically meek reaction, especially compared to the hysterical response to anything Chavez says or does.
I guess freedom (said breathlessly) only applies to anti-American regimes. Regimes who claim abhorr America's enemy of the week are exempt from basic standards of liberty (also said breathlessly).
But anyone familar with the history of First Cold War already knows this.
2 comments:
The govt's criticism of Musharraf has been subdued because if it appears that he loses the support of the West as well, his military may declare him a lost cause and revolt. I frankly do not know if we can afford an unknown evil that may resemble an Islamist government, right on the border with Afghanistan. Upon last check, the crackdown has already been ended, but that Chief Justice is still an issue for Mush.
Hey, I know I'm thinking aloud, but this Justice is quite popular and appears to be a genuine reformer- perhaps he can replace Mush? Now if only Mush would be kind enough to perhaps broker a deal to have this happen.
Mark,
Given the recent US and Ethiopian intervention in Somalia and its consequences, I'm not sure the answer is as clear as you suggest.
Post a Comment