Re: [DEHAI] Eritrean Constitution on Sale for 2%?

Araya Kassa (araya@SMAUG.DEVRY.CA)
Thu, 13 Mar 1997 10:45:46 -0700

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selamat!

I do share some of the concerns that the government had done little
to enforce or collect the 2% surtax except when the citizen needs
service. I can site instances where it takes months and in some
cases over a year and counting to get even receipt for paid taxes
or contributions without any string attached. I agree too the timing
for this election didn't give adequate time for those who want to
exercise their right to be nominated and contribute.

I hate also as someone alluded to be represented by someone who was
hell bent to crash the struggle along the side of the Dergue or under
the guise of opposition but jumping on the band-wagon after
independence and now because he/she complied with the 2% levy. I also
hate to be represented by someone who was hanging by the coat-tails of
a popular organisation where his/her contribution where nil a
lip-service or disservice. Whether I like it or not some will
always pass through the cracks, that is fact and part of life.

On the other hand, I fail also to understand for someone not willing
to comply with the laws of the land by the government of the day
regardless her/his political persuasion and yet wants to be elected
and to pass laws. In general, it is a dangerous precedence not to
comply to laws promulgated by a government of the day for any reason
for it is a recipe for instability; the next government that comes
along will have people who won't like its policies and will face the
same music. The burden of instability and its ugly consequence will
be shouldered by the people. A smooth transition of governments
occurs only when its citizens are governed by the rule of law.
Unfair laws could be changed only by complying and within not by
taking the law hostage and from outside. There might be laws that
should be disobeyed but I fail to see them in Eritrea at present as
to advocate for. My observation is, in Eritrea, we have growing
pain.

selam,
--Araya

n. .

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