To the editor:
Unless the new government of Iraq adopts three legal provisions, the war in Iraq will have been in vain.
First, like our twenty-second Amendment, limiting the executive’s term in office to two terms or eight years. As George Washington wisely put it, "It’s an office of honor not a career."
Second, separation of church and state. Religion is a personal belief not a government function.
Third, checks and balances among executive, legislative and judicial branches to avoid excessive power.
These are essential democratic safeguards in any society that wants to be free.
However, we should not assume that people accept these principles everywhere. In some cultures it is better to feel safe than to be free.
William Roufberg
Kendall Park
