23 Feb 2006

US General John Abizaid arrived at the military terminal of Wellington Airport at 2pm this afternoon to peace activists demanding his immediate arrest for war crimes. Activists shouted 'scum' 'get out' and 'war monger' during the formal military welcome which included a haka.

The General's visit was leaked to the media accidentally on Tuesday by the Prime Minister. It is likely that he is here to encourage a further commitment of New Zealand troops including SAS soldiers to the war on the people of Afghanistan (the so-called 'War on Terrorism').

As commanding officer of US Central Command, Abizaid condoned the torture and abuses at Abu Ghraib and Bagram prisons. He further sanctioned the assault on thousands of civilians in Falluja.

The reception given to a man who has committed grave crimes against humanity is cause for serious alarm by all people concerned with issues of peace, justice and self-determination in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the globe. This man should be tried for his crimes, not welcomed as a hero.

ENDS

John Minto: Supercity contracts out democracy to the private sector

The dangers in the ACT/National coalition agreement are becoming clearer by the day.

The agreement goes well past maximising ACT’s 3.5% electoral support. As part of the arrangement ACT Leader Rodney Hide got himself one of the most influential cabinet roles as Minister of Local Government ahead of the development of the so-called Auckland supercity.

Up till now the focus on democracy has been how the councillors will be elected. Firstly ACT vetoed guaranteed Maori representation on the council but supported the proposal for eight councillors to be elected at large alongside just 12 elected from local wards. More>>