(2 of 3)
Blame for Africa's ills has in the past been wrongly laid at the doorstep of foreigners. We have come to accept, however, that our choices of the wrong political and economic models following independence from the colonial powers have been the cause of most of our present misery. The economic and political reforms under way in many of our countries will at long last translate into more freedom and higher living standards for us. In Kenya and other African countries, reforms are being implemented that will result in privatization of state enterprises, more efficient public-service structures, a concerted fight against corruption, and removal of economic controls. It is no exaggeration to state that Africa is the new--and last--frontier for investors. MICAH CHESEREM, Governor Central Bank of Kenya Nairobi
There is much speculation as to what Clinton's visit has meant for South Africa. I wonder just what impact this trip has had on all the President's men and the President himself. Africa has much to give and teach to those open enough to receive and learn. KEITH GRAHAM COATS Durban, South Africa
TOLERATING CLINTON'S FLAWS
Are we in denial of the obvious? Are we not aware that America's own declining moral and ethical standards are reflected in the polls that sanction the alleged conduct of the President [NATION, March 30]? We individually need to become cognizant of our personal values in order to effect change. Americans should not accept less than the most noble of ideals in our leaders. VIVIAN WEEDE Oro Valley, Ariz.
Clinton is courageous. He attacks his attackers, tempts fate by wading fearlessly into crowds, lies when he must and damns the consequences. He's crafty, and has consistently outwitted a hostile Congress by appearing to give it what it wants. He is charismatic and feckless, and women (apparently) adore him. In the multiplex theater that has become the U.S., the virtual reality is Hollywood, not Washington. We want a touch of strife and then a happy ending. JAMES E. HASHIM Jacksonville, Fla.
A troubling finding of your poll is that most Americans seem to be indifferent to the charges that face President Clinton. Am I really to believe that groping women at will and committing perjury (if those charges prove to be true) are acceptable behavior for anyone? Shame on us, the American people, for not demanding more from the highest office of the country. Shame on feminists for offering little or no support for these women. History will remember us as fools and cowards. NEIL D. SALISBURY Dallas
The U.S. used to be the country where the Bill of Rights was the law. Now it seems that the Rights of Bill are ruling the country. Shame on him. ERIK SVARRE Copenhagen
Not one of the women involved in the Clinton soap opera took legal action at the time they claim they were sexually harassed. Now they appear to be on the bandwagon to enrich themselves one way or another. They make me feel ashamed to be a woman. JUNE PRENTICE Athens
Why are some Americans trying to ruin their nation by harassing President Clinton? People are trying to dig up anything they can to destroy him. But he is only human, capable of committing mistakes. Don't condemn him. Instead, try to see the good he has done. Americans are lucky to have him. STELLA VILAR DE ASIS Muscat, Oman
DOING IT SUHARTO'S WAY