Nonvoter

For the past 20 years I have been working in so-called "emerging countries" (Tiger states) for periods of up to three years. Whenever possible I enthusiastically become a subscriber to a local newspaper. For three months I have received your paper everyday. In addition to enjoying your brilliant up-to-date coverage of sport events throughout Europe, I also enjoy the naive character of most of your readers' letters, especially regarding the forthcoming election. I am forced to wonder whether or not the editor of your paper is bothered at all to read what he is publishing. I have reason to doubt that, as you printed in the April 28, 1997 edition, I have decided not to vote. This is something like a desperate outcry of a fellow citizen.

Obviously this person seems to be rather discontent with the current setup of political parties and their programs in this country. He used his discontent as an alibi to proudly declare himself a nonvoter. This attitude, which would lead people to form the nation's largest party, the Nonvoting Party, should not be endorsed -- at least it shouldn't be advertised. It may have a more opposite effect than anticipated as it may jeopardize the whole system of democracy, for the simple reason that (a) every nonvote is a vote for the ones we didn't want to vote for and therefore strengthens those we don't want, and (b) it has a nasty effect on democracy, as "Pluralism" will be slowly minimized and may eventually lead to a one-party state.

So, nonvoting is equal to resignation, it's counterproductive, and it deprives nonvoters the right to take part in political discussions. It is certainly nothing to be proud of, on the contrary, it's a crying shame!

HELMUT KRAHMER

Ambon, Maluku