Beware the greedy minority

THE EDITOR: Over the past 20 years, I have been submitting letters to the editors of all the daily newspapers and the Mirror. May I say that up to about 1995, my letters were just about complaints highlighting the inefficiencies by Government and society. During this time most of my letters were printed by all the news media. Recently, about three years ago, my slant has been a little more aggressive, as my aims and objectives were deliberately set on monopolies (especially the Banking sector and State enterprises), and the workings of the greedy minority, as it affects the middle and lower classes. Lo and behold, my letters have become a no-show by the Guardian and the Express, only the Newsday and Mirror have been bold and determined enough to continue printing my letters unedited and uninhibited. All praises go to these two newspapers and especially their staff, and this gives credence to the fundamental right of “Freedom of the Press.”

“Freedom of the Press” also means giving the people the right to express (no pun intended) their opinions in the news media. The authority given to the editors must go hand in hand with their responsibilities to their readers. The owners of the respective media houses must not be allowed to control the voices of the people. On the excuse of libel, once you have clarified the authenticity of the writers’ name and address, print the letter. Journalists must adopt the policy of “Touch One, Touch All.” Resign “en masse.” Journalists must never, never be controlled. The controversy between CONCACAF and the Government was a beautiful experience. You see, this does not affect the greedy minority.

This greedy minority is the basis of all the social ills in TT. All sitting governments have demonstrated their impotence by allowing the banking sector to do as it pleases. Another thing — the Sunday Newsday sells for $2 while the other two newspapers sell for $3. What is the rationale behind the extra $1? Also they advertise a Free Cable Guide, but the price of the Saturday newspaper jumps to $1.50. Therefore, you are in fact paying .50 cents for a Free Cable Guide. The Newsday gives a better cable guide and it remains at $1. All penny pinchers, take note. At the end of the year, you pay a whopping $78 per newspaper, to the greedy minority. My advice to all readers, manage your money properly.

DOODNATH   MAHARAJ
Arima