No, I don't think I missed your point...
Reader comment on item: Rooting for Ahmadinejad
in response to reader comment: Amazed at yout real politik

Submitted by Fay Voshell (United States), Jun 13, 2009 at 12:39

I don't think I missed your point that Ahmadinejad is a mouthpiece who should remain in office because he will continue to scare the world; whereas, a more moderate voice might lull the world to sleep. Honestly, I think you are encouraging playing with fire.

Here is why I disagree with your desire he remain in office (as we all know by now, apparently, he will):

The tone and policy of an administration are set by the words of a given country's leader, mouthpiece or not. I believe if Iran's behind the scenes forces of power did not support Ahmadinejad's view of Israel, he would be gone; therefore, there is apparently enough agreement with his statements among the powers that be to keep him in office. His extremism is attractive because the actualities of policy makers' decisions then look moderate. Were a more moderate voice put in place, policy decisions might begin to reflect something of that new moderation.

Further, how many continue to be oppressed because they dare not voice opposition to this madman? His words have power to suppress. If a more moderate voice were in place, perhaps other moderates could begin to find their voice and begin a chorus of opposition that just might bring about reform.

Best,

Fay Voshell

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