Rizwan Ghani

Articles by Rizwan Ghani

Obama and Afghan Strategy
It would therefore be interesting to see Obama making history as fate of millions of Asians hangs in balance.
Hatoyama: "The battle starts now"
Ironic it maybe, Obama cannot avoid for long the shadows of Hatoyama's battle to replace capitalism with a new social contract on lines of New Deal to serve public and public alone
Bernanke: Obama´s Feng Shui
Let Republicans know that your Bo doesn´t care what they think. It is the man who leaves the legacy not the Feng Shui.
"Spirit of Humanity" Test´s Obama´s Resolve
Obama´s silence over the issue in last 48 hours has severely undermined his efforts to win hearts and minds across the globe.
US Supreme Court´s DNA Ruling
Logically speaking, Obama administration is going to step back and justices may actually revisit the case and change their decision in due course of time. I´ll keep my fingers crossed.
Pakistan´s Judiciary and Macrocosm of Global Politics and Justice
Time is equally running out for Obama who has failed to change course on ´boots on ground´ policy, Bush´s disdain for international conventions and human rights
Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence
Reports of beaten, bitten and choked Rihanna show that battle against domestic violence is far from over.
ICC Ruling
President Omar Al-Bashir's arrest warrant by ICC is a positive step
Obama Speech: Illusions and Realities
The reality of inaugural address of President was Barack H. Obama himself. Ronald Regan shifted inauguration ceremony from East to West Front of US capitol where Obama took oath as 44th US president. It is alluded that Regan wanted to remember California as he looked West. The reality is after the f...
Sarkozy-Mubarak Gaza Ceasefire Plan
The timing of plan forwarded by both leaders has left the otherwise controversial plan without any credibility. France (and UK´s) support for US veto of Arab backed Libyan ceasefire Resolution speaks volumes of sincerity of Sarkozy.
Gaza: The Bigger Picture
In terms of politics in Washington, Tel Aviv has created a situation that it expects will allow Clinton era aides surrounding Obama to recreate ´motion without substance´ show and will push aside Palestine from international politics.
US Auto Bill: a Microcosm of the Macrocosm
The second sitting of US Congress deliberating the fate of 25 billion dollar auto bill shows that country´s lawmakers are in a fix. If they pass the bill or not either way, they are damned. In case the bill is passed, it could bring more company executives to Washington looking for similar bailouts ...
Obama wins Presidency
Barack Obama has won the national election to become 44th president of United States of America. Obama won 52 percent popular vote and his opponent John McCain got 47 percent votes. In terms of electoral votes, Obama won 339 votes against the required winning post of 270, leaving McCain with 162 vot...
US Presidential Election 2008
The two-year long US presidential election campaign has ended but the 2008 historic election campaign will continue to hold attention of experts and public within America and across the world alike for the strategies used by both parties and the lessons they hold for democracy, role of demography an...
Is McCain Heading for Defeat?
Following results of two debates, poll results and public opinion it is clear that Obama is going to win the national election and become President of America.
US Financial Crisis: The Obamas Litmus Test
Obama in step President Roosevelt and Kennedy needs to restore ´socialist capitalism´ and offer a comprehensive plan to regulate national economy based on the successful precedent of historic New Deals.
First Presidential Debate: Obama has done it
Obama's outstanding performance in the debate, following the historic footsteps of J.F. Kennedy, has shown the American voters and the rest of the world that he has what it takes to be the leader. Obama has done it and he will do it again.
McCain´s Political Gamble
Obama´s short statement and press conference has shown that he and his party are in control to save interests of average American.
Israel: Livni's Challenges
Livni, in all probability has successfully used her two-state vision to win West's support to win domestic power struggle. However if she is really serious in her two-state vision her foreign policy experience will be an advantage in winning support within the country, region and rest of the world.
US Election: Courting Women
Courting women voter is import tactic in the election race but Democratic Party needs to maintain its domestic and foreign policy strategy objectives if they want to win the election with clear majority.
Deepening Georgia Crisis
The relations between Russia, EU member states and America to save prospects of immense economic, political and peace benefits within region and rest of the world provided Washington is willing to scraps its missile defense shield.
United Democratic Party Promises Change and Hope
America wants change. It aspires for hope and dignity. Will Obama make history by promising to stand up for average American against the rich and corporate America or will he use the final night of 2008 Democratic Party Convention to climb should be clear in his speech
United Democratic Party
Average American is waiting to hear what both candidates have to say on economy, taxes, fuel prices and ending two wars to improve US image in rest of the world.
Indo-US Nuclear Deal
Whatever tactical and strategic expectations Delhi has from Indo-US deal it is for sure that the deal introducing new arms race will undermine peace in the region. It will increase poverty in the region by undermining average Indian´s financial interests and constitutional rights. The ongoing evolution of French social welfare state into ´free market economy´ and revival of militarism in Japan costing the country economic slowdown are cases in point.
Turkey: Anti-West Order of Coup Plots is here to Stay
Unless West is willing to respect international law, rights of small nations and withdraw forces/end occupations/ close bases the anti-west order of coup plots is here to stay. The unrepresentative third world coalition govts have become part of the problems because they are either unwilling or unable to protect their national interests.
EU-Russia Talks: A test for Europe
It is hoped that individual European states will look beyond what EU leadership wants and make sure that they work to protect their economic and energy interests for what they are paid instead of getting entangled into the sticky areas that are not affecting Europe including Kosovo, US Missile defense system in Europe and expansion of NATO.
NK and Nuclear Nonproliferation
it is a monumental task, however if global community is ready to recognize NK is small first step in the journey for safer nuclear free world provided it is ready to uphold its end of the bargain on Iran and nuclear free ME. The ball therefore is in West, EU and Washington´s court not Iran´s.
Jeddah: International Energy Conference
The rising oil prices cannot be solely blamed on inadequate supply and rising consumption only. The developed world has to recognize negative role of Wall Street speculators moping profits at the cost of Main Street, loopholes in trans-Atlantic trading rules and handful of critical shortcomings on domestic fronts including lack of investment in refineries and allied infrastructure and weakening dollar. Similarly, global platforms should play their role to improve geo-political situations including peace in ME by helping resolve Palestine issue, end Iraq and Afghan wars and lifting of sanctions against Iran to help end growing fuel prices.
Zimbabwe: A Battle ground for Western Supremacy
Politics in Zimbabwe is a sideshow as global players vie to protect their economic and political interests. The Western backed opposition lead by Morgan Tsvangirai is also using local conditions to win power by trading national interest and resources.
Lisbon Treaty: An International Perspective
The supporters of global stakes are consistently undermining public interests across the globe for vested stakes. The Lisbon Treaty in Europe, Iraq occupation, stalled ME process , Afghanistan occupation and judicial standoff in Pakistan are cases in point.
Obama´s Vice President
Obama has to look for a VP who believes in real Liberal values including New Deal; is ready to fight against poverty and keen to protect interests of an average American; prefers diplomacy to war and recognizes international platform, conventions and charters for mutual safety and security.
Scott McClellan´s Disclosures and Criminals
McClellan´s disclosures show that how law and constitution is undermined in high offices in the name of country. It is therefore hoped that Democratic Party will use bipartisan approach to change laws to end such violations and bring the ´criminals´ to book in accordance to law of the land.
2009: Islamabad, US Foreign Policy and Asia
There will be little change in current US foreign policy in 2009 or beyond because Washington will continue to protect American economic interests. Human Rights and Geneva Convention; stronger international platforms including UN, ICJ and EU; independent judiciaries; media freedom and FOIA will remain at crossroads with American interests in immediate terms and coming decades.
Bush and ´Whistler´s Mother´
Democrats have to stand up to neo-cons Republicans who are protecting super rich under the guise of free economy with adverse affects for the average American and if realized two wars are mere excuses.
Exit Musharraf, Enter Democracy
Given the efforts, interests and support of west the possibility of exit Musharraf, enter democracy might sound overly optimistic but then but then politics is the art of possible.
Obama´s Foreign Policy, Bush and McCain
a truthful review of US foreign policy is need of the hour to determine right direction for country´s future including US-Iran, Palestine and Afghan policies. Obama and Democrats therefore need to look beyond 'appeasement' like digressions to find a workable solution to US foreign policy challenges.
Democratic Party: Hillary's Waterloo and Obama's Foreign Policy
The party leadership therefore has a set of complex challenge on its hands meriting clear policies to end domestic problems and future direction for rest of the world.
Obama: North Carolina and Indiana Give Change a Chance
it is hoped that North Carolina and Indiana will help Obama emerge stronger to help him change economy, improve wages, cut fuel prices, improve health care system for an average American, and end negative politics including race forever- 21st century is all about issues and solutions.
$50 a barrel of Oil: Democratic Party Politics
Democratic party is Democratic Party because historically speaking the party stands for vision of enlarging opportunities for an average American to realize full potentialities but it is only possible if Democratic Party is ready to challenge corporate America backed by the Republicans.
After Pennsylvania: Flawed Democrat Campaign
Pa. has once again shown that Democrats are going to allow Republicans to: 1) continue with Darwin´s philosophy of ´survival of fittest´ within America and in the process denying state protection to millions of average Americans left at the mercy of corporate America. 2) In step with 19th century, American nationalism sentiment echoed by Regan and McCain as "manifest destiny" to guide and educate "lesser" peoples in the world to continue Iraq and Afghan wars as part of colonial policy for the United States.
Oil Pricing and the Democratic Party
The oil pricing has more to do with politics than what is being shown in the US and global media. The Democrats therefore have to take a position on ending two wars and upholding US laws in step with the history of Democratic Party to protect rights of average American against the onslaught of Republican backed oil giants and corporate sector. The ´freezing´ of barrel of oil to $50 will not only ease economic pressure on average American but will also bring relief for rest of the world.
Pennsylvania Vote: Obama will emerge stronger
In all probability, Obama will emerge stronger by maintaining his position in terms of popular vote and pledged delegate lead, which in turn should help him win support of more supper delegates.
Pope´s White House Visit and Larger Questions
Pope´s visit to president´s personal property in Texas would have made sense but his visit to White House has undermined independence of secular states. Similarly, the failure of White House and other law enforcement agencies to help alleged victims of alleged abuses on church properties tantamount to collapse of modern secular state versus religious state.
60´s Radicals: Should Democrats Disown Party's anti-war History in 08 Election Campaign
The American media somehow ignores to highlight the crucial role of guns in protecting constitutional rights of an average Americans, states and their leaders.It can be argued that guns guarantee continuation of Democracy.
Democrats undermining party´s History including anti-war-1
The support for funding for faith based schools, sex-abstinence cum sex education campaigns and anti-abortion cum pro-life positions show that Republicans New Right challenge to liberalism is still being vehemently pursued.
Democrats undermining party´s History including anti-war-2
A clear adoption of Democratic/liberal policies will automatically define country´s immigration, trade and other policies. It will automatically improve America´s relations with rest of the world because trade and commerce based economies don´t rely and cannot rely on use of military power to protect their economic interests.
Hillary´s Convention Floor Bluff and the Democratic Party
Hillary´s convention floor fight is a bluff and if she really intends to play it in all probability party leadership will not hesitate to call the bluff with undemocratic-super delegates to help the party stay united and beat the Republicans in national elections.
Foreclosure Crisis: Here is the maths
the math is clear; the question is all about the willingness to solve the crisis.
Second "Common Sense": Obama Emerges Presidential in the Race Issue
In terms of change and hope, I am of the opinion that Obama´s speech is more about helping America than race. This speech is all about second Common Sense, if only it is realized.
Eliot Spitzer: Boys are Boys
It is hoped that the couple will make news by staying together in their family´s interest because if they cannot stop the divorces in America at least by keep together they can avoid adding two more digits to the statistics.
Pakistan´s Judiciary and Transnational Implications
Musharraf has turned judges´ colony Islamabad into a private jail where twelve superior court judges including country´s chief justice of Pakistan and their families including children are held under illegal custody for last four months. International community, human rights watch groups and global civil society has not only failed to condemn this blatant violation of country´s law and constitution but has also failed to convince concerned authorities to extend legal rights to jailed and ousted judges. The failure of advanced world including US to condemn ouster of some sixty judges of country´s superior judiciary including chief law officer reflects their double standards.
Forget Florida, Michigan Revote
All concerned including Howard Dean, Nancy Pelosi, DNC and Hillary Clinton herself need to protect Party´s interests as Democrats head for crucial national campaign instead of leading the party into a brawl in the August Party Convention.
Hillary´s ´Dream Team´ Swan Song
Obama's strength in Texas and Vermont in Crucial Tuesday vote, lead in pledged delegate placing him closer to 2012 and narrowing difference in super delegates show that democratic voters prefer Obama. Obama has won 27 out of 41 contests leaving Hillary with only 14. Similarly, the Obama supporters by donating 55 million dollars to his campaign in month of Feb have proved that he is the Democratic Party presidential nominee. It is therefore time that party leadership including Howard Dean and Nancy Pelosi ask Hillary to withdraw from the race in party and national interest. The current race after Crucial Tuesday has simply turned into a personal game in which Hillary is trying to stay in power. It is undermining future of Democratic Party in national elections. The Democrat voters should not fall for the ´Dream team´ stint it is her swan song.
Crucial Tuesday: It was Hillary´s night
Finally, with Texas (caucuses) result still incomplete with ever changing pledged delegate count there suspense is far from over as far crucial Tuesday is concerned. It is hoped that Obama maintains his delegate lead. However, the battle may be on but it was Hillary´s night. I can only say, well done Obama but what a comeback, Hillary!
Nawaz Cobbles formidable Challenge for Musharraf
Leaders of PPPP, PML (N), ANP have shown that with two third of members of national assembly on their side Musharraf has no option but to step down gracefully in recognition of democratic values including verdict of people of Pakistan. The announcement of result will allow process of formation of government in center immediately. It will help restore democracy, end dictatorship, return of supremacy of parliament, independence of judiciary, media freedom and return of rule of law. Similarly, it is hoped that new parliament will review and end its support for so-called war against terrorism including support for NATO mission. It is the spillover of NATO´s employment in military role in Afghanistan instead of reconstruction support that is responsible for deaths and destruction in Pakistan and violation of basic human rights including children rights in Afghanistan.
Come Ohio-Hillary will be History- 2
Finally, come Ohio-Hillary will be history and Obama will win big.It is therefore hoped that Hillary will withdraw in favor of Obama to help Democratic Party to prepare and defeat Republican candidate in national election.
West: What if Musharraf ´Hits Back´?
It will be a tragedy if Musharraf ´hits back´ and end the political process and the democratic aspiration of 165 million Pakistanis. It is therefore hoped that all those who have helped democracy to come this far will allow it in national interest to take its natural course because in independent judiciary, free media and strong institution only lies the future of stronger Pakistan, peace and stable region.
Come Ohio-Hillary will be History
A look at pledged delegate count also shows that time is up for Hillary. With 161 delegates at stake in Ohio and majority set to vote for Obama Hillary should be history because even if she wins all 228 Texan delegates Obama´s (1370) current 96-delegate lead over Hillary (1294) will help him stay in the lead. 70% of Democratic Party´s primaries and caucuses have been pledged. Ohio and Texas will move the figure to 81%.
US delusions about Iraq
Democratic Party needs to stand up and take a clear position on Iraq so that voters can vote their candidate to White House to help them restore world´s hope in peace, respect for law and human dignity- the hallmarks of modern civilization.
´What is good for Obama is good for Democrats´
I also know that when Democrat president will sit in White House there will be peace, troops will be withdrawn from Iraq, there will be progress on Palestine, respect for civil and constitutional rights, human rights and international law will be restored. If the world believes in hope, unity and change it should come forward to strengthen Obama because what is good for Obama is good for Democracy.
Questions that Hillary, Obama and McCain Must Answer-2
The answer to these questions is of critical importance in third world countries with reference to the future of pro-Bush governments, their role in undermining constitutions and democracies. Democrats by debating these issues at this stage can help America make informed decisions on domestic issues and voice their opinion for global policies. Third world needs US clarity on its support for democracy, independence of judiciary and media than aid and support. Position of all three presidential candidates will reflect individual and party position on these issues.
Questions that Hillary, Obama and McCain Must Answer-1
In my view America is uniting behind Obama campaign's big message that focuses on uniting not dividing America; a message that talks of taking everyone along than criticizing and finding faults. In all probability Obama's vision of unifying America will grow stronger and appealing in days to come. It is something that Hillary Campaign will have to address but in all probability it will be an uphill task because political pundits are already talking of bumpy ride for Hillary in coming primaries
Africa and Impaled Democracies
Reportedly, Sec. Rice is due to visit Kenya (on Monday) to assist ongoing mediation efforts in Kenya brokered by Kofi Annan which to me is equivalent of impaling democracy bit by bit in the name of dialogue and in the process Kenyans are being robbed of from their electoral rights, democratic aspirations and enslave country´s judiciary. In exchange Kenyans will be left with corruption, riots and poor governance. In all probability a political model will be replicated in Kenya in the name of national government that is already working in most countries that are onboard with Bush´s war against terrorism.
´Disciplined Myanmar Democracy´: Another Hoax
The existence of quasi and pseudo democracies and dictatorial regimes in 21st century show double standards of advanced states. It is hard to imagine that any such repressive regime can actually exist without overt or covert support of advanced worlds. It is about time advanced world abandons its stakes and help third world countries free from such political shackles of such regimes that are lording over hapless third world in the name of people and their countries. The list of such nations is growing with every passing day.
Obama Wins: Super Delegates Must Wait
In all probability, Hillary has counted her wins and now it is Obama´s time to ride the tide. It is therefore responsibility of Democrat Party leadership to provide a level democratic field so that both candidates in addition to vying for party´s nomination should also focus on real issues and keep the party united to face the Republicans in Nov. Presidential elections.
Super Tuesday: Obama Emerges Stronger
The international community will now be watching Obama more closely because in his position on Iraq lies the fate of Bush´s war against terrorism. In it is the question of 500 billion plus defense budget (against China´s 2006, 45 billion dollar budget) or two trillion dollars Iraq war spending depending on how it is interpreted. All these figures ultimately come around to add up in US economy, health cover plan, quality education, housing etc. It would be interesting to see how Obama balances domestic needs versus US foreign policy including war expenses.
US Energy Challenges and the Way Forward
US has made tremendous headway in alternate energy sector. It is time steps are taken on war footings for adoption of state of the art alternate energy technology at grassroots for individual and national benefits. The third world will automatically follow suit. This step in itself has tremendous potential to improve global peace and make energy independent US like rest of the world stronger and safer. It is the way forward to end US energy challenges. The US cooperation in alternate energy sector will improve its relations with people of third world countries
US Elections: Super Tuesday
If Hillary will win Super Tuesday the history will repeat itself- money, links and experience won the day. But if Obama wins the day it will make history not because he is the first black American who has come this far in country´s presidential race but he was able to convince the Americans that he is change personified.
Geo-Politics: The Russia Question
Following global leadership´s failure to end economic chaos in World Economic Forum (WEF) amidst deepening US economic recession all eyes are on Asia. The global think tanks are debating role of Russia in emerging global economic and political picture where China has already stamped its econom...
Kenya: A Snapshot of meddling with Democracy
Any settlement outside election results will be violation of country´s electoral laws and constitution and it is therefore hoped that opposition including Odinga will manage to stay clear of the PM-trap that Kibaki and his supporters wants Odinga and his party to fall in. Any such development will push Kenya into a political mess that will not end in years. It is therefore need of the hour to avoid any such development for immediate short term gains. It will serve neither Kenya nor international community. The sooner it is realized the better.
French Media Reforms
Reportedly, President Nicolas Sarkozy has decided to reform French media. The media shakeup details include scrapping up of Arabic and English languages services of Channel 24 and restricting the Channel to French language, only. The reports show that French National TV will be disallowed annual adv...
Gordan Brown's Asia Visit
There is optimism that UK and EU will exert its influence to help end Afghan (and Iraq) occupation for the restoration of peace in the region to help expand economic activities in the region for mutual benefit, help NATO return to its original mission in the region and end violations of international conventions and human rights.
Obama Entrenches as Clinton Wins Nevada
Hillary may have won another battle but Obama is still poised to win the war provided he plays his Iraq card sensibly. In all probability, there is still lot of action left in the election game of American Democracy-both for learners and seasoned observers. If elections were food of democracy, play on.
Kenya: Democracy's Struggle for Electoral Justice
Kenyan opposition is struggling for electoral justice after days of deadly violence that has left over five hundred dead (unofficially reports show 1100 election related deaths), scores injured and entire communities homeless. The scenes emerging from Kenya in worldwide print and electronic media sh...
Opinion Polls and New Hampshire Primary
A British pollster has defined Democrat presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s victory ‘unique’ in the New Hampshire (N.H) primary. Hillary staged a comeback defying opinion polls predicting a victory for Barack Obama. Some of the polls showed a double-digit lead for Obama. The American pol...
Obama set to lead New Hampshire Vote
Following Iowa Caucuses victory, reportedly Democrat presidential candidate Barak Obama is likely to win New Hampshire vote as America heads for New Hampshire primary. A USA Today/Gallup poll published yesterday gives Obama a 13-point lead over Clinton. According to the poll, his support is at 41%, ...
US Presidential Election and Campaign Issues
The voters should push the candidates on hard issues because in their answers lie the future of an average American’s economic security and individual safety. All this in turn is linked to global prosperity, hope for culture of accountability and respect for international laws and conventions. El...
Pakistan: Benazir’s Assassination and Emerging Political Options
A stable friendly Pakistan serves national and global interests. The time for supporting ‘status-quo’ is up. If only it is realized. Benazir’s death has brought the country to political crossroads and two clear views have emerged in the local and international media. Reportedly, following Cabinet’...
Pakistan and PCO-2
It is therefore hoped that in national interest and to help strengthen democratic accountability the concerned including lawmakers, judiciary and the executive will address these critical issues to avoid a political standoff. Ideally, Pakistan’s constitution should be restored to its original form o...
NIE, US Credibility and CIA
Today American media is posing an interesting question. Has US taken a major hit on its credibility over Nation Intelligence Estimate (NIE) on Iran’s nuclear program? No, it has not. The coining of question itself is a part of spin to hide Republicans behind America to stave off public pressure de...
Russian Elections and the West
In a way West’s impatience to push privatization down the throat of an average Russian has returned to haunt the West in this election, both in terms of brakes on privatization and Putin’s growing influence in Russian politics. Garry Kasparov, opposition leader called country’s parliamentary electi...
Strategic Implications of Growing Sino-Japan Relations
Sino- Japan relations are a reality. Tokyo like rest of the world in all probability has fine-tuned its policies to address its energy and economic interests more than anything else. It is therefore impractical to raise the Korean Peninsula “Ghost” for Tokyo. Tokyo’s cutting of Japanese Naval miss...
Pakistan Turmoil: Benazir seeks Musharraf’s Resignation
The political turmoil is growing deeper in Pakistan and emerging differences over restoration of true democracy are a bad omen for the country and its people. Benazir Bhutto the ex-PM and chairperson of Pakistan People Party (PPP) has been put under seven-day house arrest in Lahore following her...
Benazir and the Growing Turmoil in Pakistan
The growing political turmoil in Pakistan needs to end in national interest. Pakistan is not a game that will have winners and losers. The critics have rejected government’s apparently successful efforts of keeping Benazir Bhutto the chairperson of Pakistan People Party (PPP) from addressing a sche...
Pakistan under Martial Law not Emergency
The International community should recognize ground realties in Pakistan and act quickly to avoid another Burma like situation in the region. In view of the legal experts, Pakistan is under Martial law not emergency or emergency plus because country’s constitution is held in abeyance by the orders...
Turkey, US Standoff Ends
It is an unfortunate development that Democrats raised the issue of 1.5 million Armenian killings in US Congress but failed to bring it to logical end due to political pressure. The standoff between two countries over US congressional committee’s approval of a resolution that labels the World War...
Anti-Iraq War Protests in Washington
If anti-Iraq war protestors in words of Goodell would be able to involve all Americans in restoring the people's guiding hand to misguided policies, their objective will be served. Reportedly, anti-Iraq protestors have started gathering in the Capitol to demonstrate against Iraq war and return of ...
Japan: Abe's Resignation
Pro-Washington Abe’s departure at this stage in all probability will stall the Indo-US deal and force Tokyo to review its role in AOD. Shinzo Abe, Japan’s outgoing PM during the APEC moot in Australia on 9 Sept. had clearly said that he was ready to resign over refueling vote. His resignation be...
Flawed US Asia Strategy-3
Within US in addition to reviewing flawed US Asia strategy Washington needs to revise its OPEC policy. Reportedly, Washington is blaming OPEC for higher oil prices and asking OPEC to increase oil production. This build up on OPEC is aimed in short term to cover up shortfall in country’s refining ca...
Flawed US Asia Strategy-2
In terms of flawed US (energy) strategy in Asia if media reports are the yardstick, Washington (or Israel) is all set to attack Iran over its peaceful nuclear program. The analysts believe Bush is making Iran a scapegoat to cover Iraq defeat. Bush is pushing the pressure on Iran from Persian Gulf, U...
Flawed US Asia Strategy-1
Is US Asia policy peddling poverty, quasi democracies and extremism in its attempt to secure (its) economic, political and energy interests in the continent? The geo-political developments in Asia reflect little to discard this assertion. Ironically, US lawmakers are doing almost nothing to help st...
Gonzales Resignation and War against Terrorism
His departure also leaves lessons for self-made people that there are limits to reach the top and in the corridors of power, there are fall guys not friends. American Attorney General Alberto Gonzales’ decision to resign and relinquish charge of country’s AG office on 17 September 2007 heralds en...
Heathrow Airport Protests
British government has promised not to accept any disruption in flight schedules amidst reports that some two thousand protestors are hell bent to do exactly that during planned weeklong protests starting from Sunday at Heathrow London, one of the world’s busiest airports to raise awareness about ‘...
Turkey’s Presidential Elections
Like Turks let us all wait and see how things unfold in the first round of Turkish presidential elections while all eyes are on secular opposition and the military. First round of election is due on 20th of August and Turkey’s ruling AK party has confirmed FM Abdullah Gul’s nomination for the offi...
Karl Rove: A Master Strategist or a Phony
The departure of Rove however has one ray of hope for democracy. It shows that executive has recognized natural superiority of lawmakers who represent American public. It is hoped that executive upholds the practice in days to come. Bush’s top political aid Rove has decided to leave his job on ...
Nuclear Free ME, Israel and Electricity
If Israel, as opined by the experts, is really using the news to signal to the world that it wants to join NPT then it is time to find a way out to end current standoff over Israel’s nuclear program. The news, Israel Weighing Establishing of Nuclear Plant, published by international press including...
Indo-US Deal and Balance of Power in the Region
The editorial published in the daily New York Times, “A Bad Deal Gets Worse” dated July 5 reflects the international disappointment about Indo-US nuclear deal, which is a blow to global efforts to control nuclear proliferation. The deal once again show us what all is wrong with Bush’s foreign policy...
Cocoa Stigma, Chocolate Giants and US legislation
The ‘frozen-prices’ of Cocoa beans for last 34 years dubbed as Cocoa Stigma by the international media has reached Capitol Hill. Reportedly, Democrat Congressman Eliot Engel has called for measures including sanctions against chocolate giants to end exploitation of Cocoa farmers and child workers in...
Erdogan Promises Cosmopolitan and Global Turkey
PM Erdogan’s gamble to advance the general elections from Nov. ’07 has paid off and country’s ruling party has won a landslide victory for another five year term. Ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) with 47 percent votes has secured 341 seats in a 550 seat Turkish parliament in accordance to ...
Turkish General Elections: “Head Scarf No One’s Business”
With campaign for Turkey’s parliamentary elections over the nation is set to vote for Sunday’s elections. As all eyes watch public decide country’s fate the political pundits wonder if it elections will deliver a secular or a religious Turkey. Abdullah Gul- Turkey’s foreign minister whose party n...
The Iraq Revolt and Defiant “We too” White House
It is time Congress moves forward to free US from Bush’s dictatorship, restore faith of humanity in universal laws, and in words of Robert Frost respect walls of neighbors to uphold spirit of peaceful co-existence by ordering total US troop withdrawal from Iraq and resolving Palestine issue. Depar...
Lewis Libby and the Rule of Law
Libby’s pardon was no ordinary clemency case. It is a message to American public that current administration will continue with its ongoing “secretive” style of leadership and Libby’s freedom is part of the process. Bush’s decision to commute the sentence of Libby has been termed as “death of hop...
US Immigration Bill and the Rest of the World
It can be argued that Individual countries have “natural right” to determine their domestic immigration policies. But then as part of global community they are equally responsible to protect fellow beings from exploitation and slavery and US is no exception. Landmark US immigration bill is dead fo...
Brown and Britain: Old Wine in a New Bottle
A shade of such wilderness was evident in “desertedness” on his way back to 10 Downing Street after taking over as country’s premier. There was hardly a soul to cheer him up. May be Brown, like the rest of the world, noticed the eerie quietness. The moment Brown left Buckingham Palace the publi...
Palestine Crisis and the Way forward
Democracy has to recognize and respect political differences. That is what 21st century is all about- respecting individual, religious and political differences. Bush and Olmert have endorsed Abbas in his battle with Hamas for primacy, calling him a moderate voice among extremists and the only true...
Libby Clings to Individual Allegiances at the Cost of Constitutional Obligations
Since, Libby has drawn his own course therefore he should be allowed to serve his full prison term otherwise also the presidential pardons are not for political loyalists only if it is realized. Libby maintained stoic indifference to the ruling that could see him behind bars as early as end of ...
French Parliamentary Elections: Social Market and Free Market
In all probability it appears that Sarkozy has made up his mind and the French as Royal said should now brace to face the hard realities as the country embarks on the road to transformation from somewhat “humane” social market to “heartless” free market economy. Reportedly, Sarkozy’s rightwing UNP ...
World Bank and the President-II
Experts are blaming the populist leaders of Ecuador, Bolivia, Nicaragua and Venezuela for nationalization of state assets and opine that the move will back fire in the long run. True it may be in the long run but still it is equally a failure Bush’s LA policy that failed to engage its neighbor...
World Bank and the new President-I
In an undemocratic move, Bush has pushed Robert Zoellick as the new president for the World Bank to replace Paul Wolfowitz attracting skepticism for his undemocratic step. "It's a world institution. It's not a monolithic place," remarked Mr. Bradford. Otherwise, also WB with 184 member states and 2...
Iran-US Baghdad Talks
Reportedly, an Iranian delegation left Tehran Sunday for Baghdad for talks with the U.S. on Iraq's security. Iran said Monday's talks will include discussions on security, a timetable for U.S. forces to leave Iraq, Iran's participation in Iraq's reconstruction and the presence of the opposition grou...
Gonzales and Repercussions for Judiciary
Goodling’s testimony in which she said that Gonzales and his deputy were not candid about firing details of US attorneys has reinforced the perception that Gonzales wore two hats as AG of America. It is opined that he failed to cease as Bush loyalists while working as the US attorney general. G...
French Cabinet Offers Mixed Signals
President Sarkozy has announced his fifteen-minister French government. Sarkozy as promised has tried to break away from the France’s political past by inducting seven female ministers in otherwise male oriented political setup. Sarkozy’s choice of Bernard Kouchner foreign minister from socialist ...
Future of Israeli Politics: Chaos as always
In all probability, for now Olmert has survived the pressure to resign in the aftermath of Lebanon war report. Report has blamed country’s top leadership for loss of lives and face. However, Olmert has promised to “fix all mistakes”. FM Livni, urged Olmert to resign apparently in a bid to save t...
Act for Peace in Iraq: It is already Too Late
Rice should help Bush play his part to take hard decision to end Iraq crisis and (as Rice said) in turn also secure America. It is already too late. The comity of nations has reciprocated overwhelmingly to Rice's call and done its bid by pledging funds and moral support. Rice exte...
French Presidential Campaign has Ended: Now Let us all Wait
Unlike Sarkozy who is heading to replace what all is “humane” in French system with what he believes is “faster world”. At least outside world does not share this perspective. May be from where he is standing there is a different view. Royal is trailing in opinion polls by 10 points (8 and 7 in so...
A Secular, Religious or Universal Turkey: An Analysis
If viewed realistically religion and secularism are being used for political purposes in Turkey. Interestingly the country has embarked on the road to stronger economy on modern lines. And ironically, a party with religious ties has beat secular opponents in economic governance. In wake of annulmen...
Future of Israeli Politics: Chaos as always
In all probability, for now Olmert has survived the pressure to resign in the aftermath of Lebanon war report. Report has blamed country’s top leadership for loss of lives and face. However, Olmert has promised to “fix all mistakes”. FM Livni, urged Olmert to resign apparently in a bid to save th...
US, Cairo (Sharm-El-Sheikh) Iraq Summit and Iran
Iran has shown a positive gesture to be part of the process but its significance may be dwarfed in face of larger realities. On the contrary, skeptics opine that Iran should ready itself for extensive blame game in future including strong probability of an attack on its nuclear energy plants. Futur...
Annulled Turkish Presidential Elections: What next?
The country’s constitution allows a third vote for same round of presidential election and in that round there will be no mandatory restriction of 365 votes. Instead the victory will be decided on simple majority. That in turn will allow Gul to be the president. Failure of Abdulla Gul, Turkey’s ru...
America and Iraq Standoff: Answer lies with Bush
The power to end Iraq standoff with lawmakers rests with Bush. However, it would be interesting to see how they convince him to end Iraq war. Iraq standoff has three dimensions: Iraq as part of American energy strategy; Region and Iraq, and situation within Iraq. Bush and his allies know the game a...
Harry’s fate hangs in balance
Harry like rest of the world would be waiting to see what is there for him as destiny plays its next move while fate sits on the edge as in Keats “Ode to Death” King Richard III, 1483 insisted on wearing British crown to the Battle of Bosworth Field that made him an easy target for enemy soldiers ...
Royal, Europe and US: A Foreign Policy Perspective
Reportedly, Royal accused Sarkozy, her conservative opponent for apologizing to President Bush for France’s decision not to back US (militarily) in Iraq war. Sarkozy campaign denied the words as “lies”. It shows extent of difference in foreign policy in French politics like rest of the world. In ...
President Royal Controls Both Worlds Can Bayrou Measure up
Royal is all set to be the next president of France and it is only a matter of time that Bayrou will be part of her coalition government. What Bayrou is doing is part of political posturing that adds to the suspense. And without posturing politics wouldn’t be half the fun that it is now In addition...
Bush, Gonzales and Wolfowitz: Beyond Party Lines
Bush needs to look beyond party lines to protect and respect country’s institutions. It is time Justice Department is allowed to do its own cleaning in national interest. It should start with resignation of Gonzales. Despite bipartisan humbling during Senate Judiciary Committee Gonzales, as put by...
Legacy of Boris Yeltsin
Death always leaves a feeling of fear and isolation behind. Those who remember it can always make use of time and power that is at their disposal to do good to humanity. When great people die it also leaves a message for those who are left behind to do what it takes to make life of fellow beings com...
Royal Poised to make History as the next President of France
There will be little change in country’s social system and foreign policy. In all probability, Royal will be the only change this election will bring to French politics. First round of French presidential elections also know as knockout round saw unprecedented voter participation at 84.8percent...
French Head for a Cliffhanger Vote
Therefore, logically she can be the first female president of France. But then defying logic is what politics is all about. Isn’t it? And that is why France is all set for cliffhanger vote. Everything is open for the forthcoming first round of presidential election in which French will directly ...
“Clueless” Gonzales Chastised
In all probability that time has come. It is not the question of Gonzales as a man. Who they say is a good man. It is the question of credibility of nation’s chief law enforcement officer. His testimony once again reflected how clueless Gonzales was about the plot that led to firing of eight US ...
America readies to Judge Cho
Guns and knives have been and will pass through security measures. What needs to be addressed is the underlying causes. By releasing Cho’s video NBC did what had to be done. The Guardian taking a different view (http://www.guardian.co.uk/international/story/0,,2061176,00.html) raised the eternal q...
Richardson’s Plan spearheads Democrats Iraq strategy
In all probability this will be Bush’s last fund request for US troops in Iraq to support (his) troop surge plans because Democrats are coming up with fresh plans to end Iraq war and bring the US troops back. Reportedly, on Sunday Bush asked Democrats to pass the war-spending bill he wants. “De...
Iraq Troop Surge out US troop withdrawal In
Under the circumstances Bush’s coming meeting with lawmakers will be of little significance. And it is matter of time only that Iraq military based policy will be replaced by diplomacy to bring US troops back. In all probability this will be Bush’s last fund request for US troops in Iraq to suppo...
Massacre in Virginia Technical University
To me lack of credible deterrence is the answer to the question as why this happens in American education institutions. Virginia Technical University (VTU) tragedy has left the nation filled with grief and sorrow. The massacre has brought back the debate over the gun laws, availability of milita...
Gonzales Showtime
If Sen. Leahy and his team manage to keep their focus on bigger picture to bring out right facts it will ensure that in future no one will dares to meddle in the affairs of justice dept His article in the Washington Post is Gonzales preview to his April 17 testimony, remarked a member senate judici...
Future of Wolfowitz and the World Bank
After offering an apology for his act WB president Woflowitz has dug his heels to save his job. Can he survive or the WB needs a new head? The WB 25 member board by now should have made up their mind about the fate of Wolfowitz. The board reportedly is considering his involvement in the issue of...
The Royal Split
In most cases it is gags that come with the money. Under the circumstances what led to split and how “deep” and romantic was four year relationship between the two, will not be out there for free. Practically what people want to know about the royal split between Prince William and his girl fri...
Wolfowitz Crash Lands
For today there is little to reject the opinion that Wolfowtiz’s days are numbered and the clock is ticking. Out of nowhere Paul Wolfowitz has made a crash landing at the international scene and almost stole the center stage from battered Gonzales already struggling to memorize attorney firings “t...
Pelosi and US Foreign Policy
It took Washington 191 years to resolve Alaska oil revenue issue. Under the circumstances issue of sharing of oil revenue alone can keep Iraq embroiled in security chaos for another century. To save Iraq will Bush keep US troops in Iraq for that long? Reports of US lawmakers’ readiness to vi...
Pelosi, Iran and the Window of Opportunity
At the individual level, released British naval crew has made it back home and leaving few all would have been rich by selling their stories, had MoD not withdrawn its permission to sell their stories. While in the corridors of power at the international level, Iran has offered a window of opportun...
Iraq: Bush and the Routing Democrats
Bush’s reiteration of his veto resolve over Iraq bill in his last (Friday) radio address has initiated a route in Democrat camp leaving Democrat leadership including Pelosi wondering future strategy over Iraq bill while both liberal and conservative democrats are in stampede to push forward their po...
Gonzales’ Make or Break Testimony
Gonzales’ Make or Break Testimony Has Newt Gingrich the former speaker of the House of Representatives and one of the most influential conservative US Republicans in his statement to Fox News calling “it was time for a new attorney general” broken what little hope Gonzales had in his future as at...
Bush, Veteran Affairs and the way forward
Bush, Veteran Affairs and the way forward Thanks to people including Bob Woodruff ABC/CBS correspondent that Bush coughed up an apology to show his concerns for every shortcoming in veteran healthcare system including its quality. Woodruff’s documentary may have momentarily spurred the administ...
US Presidential Campaign ’08: Truth not Money is the name of the Game
In response to Clinton’s 26 million dollars Obama has come up with 25 million. The money race and windfall contributions have promoted experts to forecast a billion dollar figure for ‘08 campaign. Some are even auguring that all the rules are being re-written for the presidential race and numbers i...
Bush, Gonzales and Firing of US Attorneys
After House subcommittee, Senate Judiciary Committee has been authorized to issue subpoenas to White House aides including Karl Rove for fuller disclosure of details leading to firing of 8 US attorneys, of which six were engaged in corruption cases against Republicans. Sen. Leahy chairing the com...
Darfur and the illusive Peace
With reports of five African Union peace keepers killed Sunday in an ambush, pushing the peace keepers’ death to fifteen, international community echoed UN Sec. General Moon’s condemnation of the sinister act. Darfur tragedy reportedly has so far dispossessed some two million people, left over 2...

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