The scandal of the narco-photos reflects a deeper problem that lies at the heart of our transition to a democracy: the absolute absence of understanding for a good part of the population and the authorities of the rule of law and human rights. Ultimately the conflicts between the authorities and the criminals are only an issue of power and not legitimacy. There are no "good guys" and "bad guys" in this fight: just two bands looking to do away with the other.
Good point. This gets at why cleaning up the army shouldn't be an issue merely for AI and Human Rights Watch and knee-jerk opponents of Calderón, but first and foremost for those who favor a confrontational stance and think the army has a role to play in the fight against drug trafficking. The longer the army acts as or can be seen as a serial abuser, the harder it will be for the government to paint themselves as the legitimate party.
4 comments:
I saw these pictures in Proceso. I don't understand them. Presumably the armed forces do this - put money and other objects on the bodies - under instruction from the govt? but why?
I kind of figured it was the low-level soldiers acting up, but who knows. Or maybe soldiers thinking they could then sell the shots to Proceso. I can't think of any good reason why the government would plan on doing something like that.
I am a american citizen who owns a home in Mexico. I have lived in Mexico on and off for the last 4yrs. My first impression of the country was one of great admiration. I felt that the lack of nanny-state, liberal attitudes so prevelant in the US was refreshing. I quickly became soured to the country due to unbeleivable goverment corruption that is present. It is something that I beleive is ingrained in their political culture and will take herculean efforts to eliminate it. It is such a shame because the country is beautiful and has soo much potential!
Hi Anonymous, thanks for the comment and thanks for reading.
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