Brown’s true colours
By defending his decision to go ahead with the Iraq war, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has simply aligned with his partner the US. The war was one of the biggest mistakes ever committed and the current hue and cry would have been justified if even a single so-called weapon of mass destruction (WMD) the premise for the invasion, not war, in 2003 had been unearthed in Iraq. Brown’s argument defending his position serves no purpose but, with the next general election looming, can only be seen as a politically motivated statement. It is too late for Brown to realise that the past cannot be changed. He can never imagine the severity of the conflict that has claimed thousands of innocent lives in the past seven years. For the US and UK and those who joined them, the Iraq episode was a complete waste of time and money. I personally don’t expect a verdict from the Iraq war crimes tribunal that will result in punishment for any of the world powers for their actions in Iraq.
From Mr Ramachandran Nair
Oman
Inspirational woman
All the women listed in the picture gallery on International Women’s Day have in one way or another made a difference in society (“Saluting the spirit of women”, Gulf News, March 8). Some have spoken up for women’s rights, while others have helped other women learn from their own mistakes. But I personally think, out of all the women in the picture gallery, Mukhtar Mai has to be the most inspiring one. Having been a victim of gang rape, one would expect her to give up. In most cases, women who have been raped do not speak up, either to protect their own dignity, or because they are afraid of their attacker. Mukhtar Mai, however, decided to challenge her attackers. I am amazed by her spirit and determination. She is also teaching young girls about women’s rights and gender issues. Educating female students, to me, seems like one of the best deeds you could do. The girls would grow up to be educated mothers, who can then pass on their knowledge to their children.
From Ms Natasha Pierce
Sharjah
Feeling proud
I think the best example of life in the picture gallery was [the Afghan activist/politician] Malalai Joya. She managed to do many things in her society. Day by day women’s strength is improving. There are no obstacles that can stop us. I’m proud to be a woman.
From Ms Melissa M. Surco
Dubai
No support
I feel the list is not at all comparable. All the ‘first ladies’ have the support of their husband’s to do the services. Consideration should be given to those women who have no support and have to face this bad world on their own.
From Ms Sangeetha
Dubai
Drinking water
Dubai has so many immigrants in the form of labourers, who are here specifically for construction work. During the summer, it would be nice if the authorities could provide cool drinking water fountains at strategic locations on busy roads, especially close to where these people are working. Hope this will be considered by the authorities. Something similar was done when the bus stops were made air conditioned — the workers find it very comfortable to wait for buses during the summer months.
From Mr Mahendra D. Kamdar
Dubai
Saving lives
Healthy people forget they could be sick one day and may need immediate help to live. A defibrillator is one such device that I found in all international airports and shopping malls in the US. I talked to the security personnel in the malls and they said that they were well trained regarding the use of a defibrillator and had to go through yearly training and be certified as an Emergency Medical Assistant. I urge UAE authorities, who have found themselves on a par with the most advanced countries, to consider such simple ways to save lives. Prestigious organisations and hospitals could input the technical requirement.
From Mr Kanwar Hayat
Al Ain
Please, help them
A recent community report informed us about a turtle that died on the beach because of ingesting non-biodegradable materials thrown carelessly by tourists (“Picnic-goers threaten marine life”, Gulf News, March 13). Animals are treated in the most degrading manner. While we depend on them for food and power, we also torture them in the most inhumane ways. Animals around the world are being killed for our selfish desires. Whether it is for scientific purposes or for amusement, they do not deserve such treatment. We should realise that some of them are near the verge of extinction and at this rate they would surely have to face a similar fate as the dinosaurs. It is high time we realise the importance of saving animals so that we can have a future where humans and animals live together with peace and harmony.
From Ms Sanaa Abdul Latif
Abu Dhabi
A good time to recycle
It was a pleasant surprise to see that authorities have put up sufficient recycling bins around Al Nahda Park in Sharjah. It is going to be very useful for those people who wish to recycle waste, but had no convenient option available in the area. Also it will encourage other people to get into this good habit by following the examples of others, especially children. This has been put up at a time when many schools are completing their academic year, so many papers that need to be disposed at the end of the year can be recycled instead. I thank the authorities for the action taken, which will help residents to contribute towards the good health of our planet.
From Ms Ruchira L
Sharjah
Kindness goes a long way
As the weather is changing, I fell ill and went to a renowned hospital in Sharjah, as I was referred to a doctor. What compelled me to write this letter was the kind behaviour of a nurse. She helped me in every way. I had to go for several tests and she accompanied me, as I was all alone since my husband was at work. I also had to rush back home as my children were supposed to come from school and I was feeling very weak. All I want to say is that a little kind attitude could have a positive impact on someone in pain. I have seen several doctors and nurses being very rude, but this nurse relieved half of my illness with her kindness. So, I want to thank her and also the couple who gave me their spot in the queue, because I had to get home urgently. If you show a little kindness or smile at someone who feels ill, it could be like a healing touch.
From Ms Sophy Aqeel
Sharjah
