Congratulations to the Hondurans

Letters to the editor - Editor:

Congratulations to the people of the democratic republic of Honduras for participating in the open and transparent election held Nov. 29. Over 61 per cent of eligible voters cast ballots with Mr. Porfirio Lobo of the Conservative Party, the newly elected president.

Mr. Lobo replaces the leftist president Zelaya who was fired by parliament, a move endorsed by the country's supreme court.

Many nations criticized Honduras for such a move and cut off diplomatic relations and imposed sanctions. These moves were supported by the leftist president Chavez of Venezuela and President Obama of the United States, strange bedfellows indeed.

Prime Minister Harper and his government were criticized by leftist groups, journalists and university professors for not following in lock-step with the U.S. Instead the Canadian government sent cabinet ministers to the area to help Honduras plan for new elections as promised by leaders of the Honduran parliament.

Meanwhile former president Zelaya, currently holed up in the Brazilian embassy, said the new president did not have the support of the people, a statement indicative of agents of the far left. The U.S., however, in early statements seems to be paving the way for elimination of sanctions and recognition of the new government.

Prime Minister Harper is to be congratulated for showing calm, reasoned logic and a steady hand during the crisis. It behooves all nations, now that the people of Honduras have spoken, to help this country back to good health. It is also an opportunity for reflection as to whether sanctions work.

Garth E. Staples,

Charlottetown