THE EDITOR, Sir:
ON FEBRUARY 27, on Power 106, there was a programme, 'Straight Talk' on which the host questioned the Farquharson Institute's motives and remarked "... their petticoat is showing." This was intended to show that the Institute is politically biased.
Mr. Ronald Thwaites' snide remark is another demonstration of the arrogance of so many of those swearing allegiance to the ruling party. It is a foolish belief that anyone criticising the Government must be adjudged a supporter of the Opposition and up to no good.
It should be clearly understood by Mr. Thwaites and others of his ilk, that in a democracy no citizen or organisation has any obligation to give a reason or cause for expressing ideas for or against those paid as our public servants. However, the opportunity is taken to explain that the Farquharson Institute, like others of civil society, plays the role of constructive critic of happenings in public affairs. We reserve the right to address all concerned and it stands to reason that since the Government is responsible for the running of the country, our critical attention is more likely to be focused on what they do or fail to do.
Mr. Thwaites has often proclaimed the need for greater citizen participation in the affairs of the country. If he is sincere, he will stop and see that this practice of questioning people's motives or attaching a political party label to those who disagree with his own views, is a wicked act against a laudable objective.
I am etc.,
KEN JONES
allerdyce@hotmail.com
