#PoliticalAccountability

[kml09]

Bangladesh ex-PM Hasina sentenced to six months in contempt case

Bangladesh’s self-exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).

The three-member tribunal, headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder, handed down the verdict in Hasina’s absence on Wednesday. The sentence will take effect upon her arrest or voluntary surrender, Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam told reporters…. more

[ivygorgon]

An open letter to the U.S. Congress

Pass a bill to make Trump’s trial viewable by ALL Americans!

1,333 so far! Help us get to 2,000 signers!

I understand that the Senate just passed a bill, S. 3250, to permit victims of crimes associated with the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 to access court proceedings in the criminal case against the perpetrators. This new law will mean that affected people who are too old or infirm to travel to Washington, D.C., or those who are too far away to readily make the trip will still be able to observe court proceedings. Prosecutors at the Justice Department supported the move because they thought it was important for people affected by the crime to see justice in action. They are correct. Bearing this precedent in mind, I would like Congress to swiftly pass a similar bill for Trump’s prosecution for interference in the 2020 election. This case, United States v. Donald J. Trump, is of even more singular importance than the Lockerbie case. If such access can be offered for those victims it can be offered to the American people for a trial in which they have a distinct and unparalleled interest. This is one of the most important court cases this country will ever see. It is in the best interests of every US citizen to provide full access to it. There are, furthermore, no compelling reasons not to do so. Please introduce and/or support such a bill right away. People will be able to learn more about the arguments being made and it is more difficult to pass off disinformation about a proceeding that the public has full access to. Thanks.

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[tmarshconnors]

Who Else is Sick of the Puppet Show?

In today's world, it seems like every turn we take, we’re greeted by the grand theatre of politics. It's a show filled with dramatic entrances, scandalous plots, and character arcs that could rival any soap opera. But as captivating as it might seem from a distance, the reality is much more disheartening. Politics has become nothing more than a sick game, and many of us are fed up with the puppet show.

The Illusion of Choice

One of the most frustrating aspects of modern politics is the illusion of choice. We're often presented with two or more candidates who, on the surface, appear to have different agendas and solutions. However, scratch beneath the surface, and you'll find that many of these politicians are backed by the same corporate interests and influenced by similar lobbying groups. It's a rigged game where the players might change, but the puppeteers remain the same.

The Cycle of Scandal and Distraction

Political scandals are now so frequent that they barely make headlines. What should be shocking and unacceptable behaviour has become the norm. Politicians from all sides are involved in corruption, deceit, and hypocrisy. Instead of addressing these issues, the media and political strategists often use them as distractions, keeping the public focused on the sensational rather than the substantial.

Empty Promises and Hollow Victories

Every election cycle, we are bombarded with grand promises of change, prosperity, and progress. But once the elections are over and the dust has settled, these promises often fade into obscurity. Politicians prioritise maintaining their power and catering to their financial backers over delivering on their commitments to the electorate. The cycle continues, leaving the public disillusioned and distrustful.

Polarization and Division

Another sickening aspect of the political game is the deliberate polarisation and division of society. Politicians and their allies use divisive rhetoric to pit one group against another, creating an environment of hostility and mistrust. This strategy ensures that the public remains divided and distracted, making it easier for those in power to push their agendas without facing unified opposition.

The Puppeteers Behind the Curtain

At the heart of this political theatre are the real puppeteers – the wealthy elites and powerful corporations who pull the strings. These entities have the resources to influence policies, manipulate markets, and shape public opinion to serve their interests. While the public is entertained by the puppet show on stage, these shadowy figures continue to amass wealth and power, often at the expense of the common good.

So, what can be done to break free from this sick game? It starts with awareness and education. The public must be informed about the true nature of the political system and the forces at play. From there, it’s about demanding transparency, accountability, and genuine representation. Grassroots movements, community organising, and active participation in the political process can help reclaim power for the people.

We must also seek to bridge the divisions that have been deliberately sown among us. By finding common ground and working together, we can challenge the status quo and push for meaningful change. It’s time to move beyond the puppet show and create a political system that truly serves the people, not the powerful few.

The current state of politics is indeed a sick game, one that many of us are tired of watching. The puppet show has gone on for far too long, and it’s time for a change. By recognising the illusion, rejecting divisive tactics, and demanding accountability, we can start to dismantle the puppet theatre and build a political system that is just, transparent, and truly representative of the people’s will. Who else is sick of the puppet show? It’s time to rise up, reclaim our power, and create the change we desperately need. 

Remember THE REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE TELEVISED!

[leadpac]

Misinformation in Politics: A Political Analyst's Perspective

In the intricate world of politics, the battle for public opinion is fierce, and misinformation is one of the most insidious weapons. As a political analyst, it's essential to understand how misinformation operates, its impact on political processes, and the strategies necessary to combat it.

📊 From social media to traditional media and political campaigns, misinformation comes in various forms and has profound consequences. It erodes trust, exacerbates polarization, misguides policy decisions, and undermines elections.

🦠 In this blog, we delve into three case studies:

COVID-19 Pandemic Misinformation

Political Misinformation during Elections

Communal Misinformation and Violence

💡 Learn about effective strategies to combat misinformation, including media literacy, fact-checking organizations, social media regulation, political accountability, and collaborative efforts.

Read the full blog to understand the challenges and solutions to this pervasive issue:

[cotxapi]

💰 Britain remains one of Europe’s most unequal nations — and Labour is silent on redistribution. As poverty rises and the wealthy thrive, it's time for Labour to rediscover its founding purpose: economic justice. #TaxTheRich #RedistributeWealth #UKPolitics

📉 Modest reforms aren’t enough. Voters want fairness. Labour must speak up — or risk looking inauthentic.

[content1bd]

Bangladesh ex-PM Hasina sentenced to six months in contempt case

Bangladesh’s self-exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).

The three-member tribunal, headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder, handed down the verdict in Hasina’s absence on Wednesday. The sentence will take effect upon her arrest or voluntary surrender, Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam told reporters…. more

[content4bd]

Bangladesh ex-PM Hasina sentenced to six months in contempt case

Bangladesh’s self-exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).

The three-member tribunal, headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder, handed down the verdict in Hasina’s absence on Wednesday. The sentence will take effect upon her arrest or voluntary surrender, Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam told reporters…. more

[stingscustom]

When did silence become complicity? This cycle of political violence is no accident; it's a byproduct of deep-seated systemic decay. Our democracy isn't just under threat; it's hemorrhaging. Look beyond the bullet casings; see the power structures that thrive in this chaos. They perpetuate fear to paralyze us, while normalizing terror to maintain control. We cannot let our voices be drowned out by gunfire or rhetoric. Power must be held accountable. This is our moment to demand change, or risk losing everything.

[adikkachannels]

From Deception to Dharma: Bridging Ethical Gaps with Vedic Teachings

In a world where intentions shape outcomes and perceptions define reality, the principle of "Conceal Your Intentions" emerges as a compelling yet polarizing concept. This strategy, often associated with power dynamics and survival instincts, transcends personal relationships, corporate boardrooms, and international politics. However, when juxtaposed with the ethical underpinnings of Vedic teachings, the dichotomy between deception and dharma unveils profound lessons for modern society.

Overview of the Principle "Conceal Your Intentions"

The concept of "Conceal Your Intentions" is rooted in the understanding of human psychology and social dynamics. At its core, it suggests that by hiding one's true motives, individuals or entities can maneuver effectively in complex scenarios, securing advantages while minimizing risks. This principle is not inherently deceitful; it can be a protective mechanism in adversarial situations or a strategic approach to achieving long-term goals. Historically, the principle has been championed by leaders, strategists, and thinkers like Sun Tzu, Machiavelli, and Chanakya. In Chanakya’s Arthashastra, a key emphasis is placed on discretion in governance and diplomacy. Concealing intentions becomes a tool to navigate unpredictability while safeguarding larger ethical objectives. Psychological Significance Human Biases and Assumptions Concealment leverages natural human tendencies to jump to conclusions based on incomplete information. This principle plays on confirmation bias, where individuals interpret ambiguous actions in ways that align with their pre-existing beliefs, creating opportunities for strategic maneuvering. Trust and Vulnerability Openly revealing intentions can make individuals or groups vulnerable to exploitation. Concealing motives allows for controlled trust-building, creating a balance between openness and self-protection. Perception Management Humans are influenced more by perceptions than reality. Concealing intentions enables individuals to curate narratives that align with desired outcomes, ensuring actions resonate effectively with target audiences. Strategic Significance Across Sectors The strategic importance of concealing intentions permeates various sectors, illustrating its versatility and relevance. Corporate Leadership and Negotiations In competitive markets, business leaders often adopt strategies of discretion to safeguard innovations, mergers, or acquisitions. For instance, a company launching a groundbreaking product may conceal its R&D goals to prevent competitors from gaining an edge. Politics and Governance Political strategies often involve withholding information until the opportune moment. Diplomacy, for instance, thrives on the art of subtlety, where intentions are carefully concealed to ensure negotiations remain favorable. Personal Growth and Relationships On an individual level, concealing intentions can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. This is particularly significant in interpersonal relationships, where revealing all thoughts or plans prematurely might lead to unnecessary friction. Technology and Innovation The tech sector thrives on confidentiality agreements and patents to protect intellectual property. Concealing intentions here fosters innovation by allowing creators the freedom to develop without external interference. Blending Modern Critique with Vedic Ethics While the principle of "Conceal Your Intentions" holds undeniable strategic value, it is not without ethical challenges. Critics argue that such practices often blur the line between strategy and manipulation, potentially leading to distrust and exploitation. Vedic teachings offer a counterbalance to these concerns, emphasizing dharma—righteous conduct—as a guiding principle. Vedic Insights on Concealment The Vedas, Upanishads, and other ancient Indian scriptures advocate for ethical discretion. Concealment, when employed with dharmic intent, is not merely a tactic but a responsibility. Karma and Intentions The Bhagavad Gita teaches that actions should align with dharma and be devoid of selfish motives. Concealing intentions, in this context, becomes acceptable if it serves a greater good and does not harm others. Krishna's guidance to Arjuna during the Mahabharata war is a testament to this balance—strategic concealment is utilized to uphold justice and protect dharma. Interconnectedness and Trust The Upanishads emphasize interconnectedness and mutual respect. Concealment should not disrupt societal harmony or betray trust. Instead, it should act as a catalyst for growth, fostering trust through ethical actions over time. Ethical Discretion in Leadership The Arthashastra offers nuanced perspectives on governance, advocating for strategic discretion while upholding moral accountability. Chanakya's principles highlight that leaders must conceal certain aspects of their strategies to protect their kingdoms, but such actions should always align with ethical governance. Modern Critique and Ethical Synthesis Critiques of concealing intentions often stem from its misuse in perpetuating inequities or consolidating power. When transparency is sacrificed for personal or organizational gain at the expense of collective well-being, the practice loses its ethical grounding. Transparency vs. Discretion Modern critics argue for greater transparency, particularly in governance and corporate practices. Vedic teachings offer a middle path, suggesting that transparency and discretion must coexist, each serving specific contexts. Balancing Power Dynamics Concealment can sometimes perpetuate power imbalances. Ethical frameworks inspired by dharma emphasize that discretion must aim to empower the collective, not just the individual. Preventing Exploitation Strategic concealment should never exploit vulnerabilities. Instead, it should focus on fostering trust and safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders involved. Purpose of the Article This article seeks to demystify the principle of "Conceal Your Intentions" by analyzing its psychological and strategic dimensions while rooting its application in ethical practices inspired by Vedic teachings. By blending modern critiques with ancient wisdom, it aims to provide actionable insights that promote harmony and fairness across sectors. Promise of Actionable Insights Readers will gain: A nuanced understanding of the principle and its implications. Strategies for applying discretion ethically in personal, professional, and societal contexts. A deeper appreciation of how Vedic teachings can guide modern decision-making, ensuring balance and fairness. By adopting these insights, individuals and organizations can bridge ethical gaps, fostering trust and collaboration in an ever-complex world. The principle of "Conceal Your Intentions," when guided by dharma, transforms from a potentially manipulative tactic into a tool for ethical growth and empowerment. By blending the wisdom of ancient texts with modern needs, society can navigate complexities while upholding trust and harmony. As this article unfolds, it will explore actionable strategies, illustrating how timeless teachings can address contemporary challenges effectively. The Psychological Basis of Concealing Intentions The principle of concealing intentions lies at the intersection of psychology, strategy, and ethics. Rooted in an understanding of human behavior and perception, this concept has been a cornerstone of successful decision-making across eras and cultures. Its application ranges from governance to interpersonal relationships, and its relevance continues to evolve in modern contexts. This chapter delves into the psychological underpinnings of the principle, historical examples of its use, and the bridge between ancient strategies and contemporary applications. The Principle of Intention At its core, the principle of concealing intentions is about managing perception. Human beings are wired to interpret behavior, often making judgments based on limited information. This tendency creates opportunities for those who can skillfully control what others perceive, either through deliberate omission or calculated ambiguity. Cognitive Bias and Interpretation Human cognition relies heavily on heuristics—mental shortcuts that simplify decision-making. However, these shortcuts often lead to biases, such as confirmation bias or the halo effect. Concealing intentions exploits these biases, allowing individuals to shape outcomes subtly without overt manipulation. Trust and Vulnerability Trust, while essential for collaboration, inherently involves vulnerability. Revealing one's intentions can expose weaknesses, making it easier for adversaries to exploit them. By concealing intentions, individuals or organizations can protect themselves while gradually building trust through actions rather than declarations. Power Dynamics Concealing intentions shifts power dynamics by creating uncertainty. This uncertainty compels others to act cautiously, often to the benefit of the one withholding information. In both competitive and cooperative scenarios, this principle can create a strategic advantage. Historical Examples of Concealing Intentions in Strategy and Warfare Throughout history, leaders and strategists have leveraged the principle of concealing intentions to achieve their objectives. These examples underscore the enduring relevance of this approach. Chanakya’s Arthashastra Chanakya, the architect of the Mauryan Empire, emphasized discretion in governance and warfare. In his seminal work, Arthashastra, he advises rulers to maintain secrecy regarding their plans, revealing only what is necessary to inspire confidence or mislead adversaries. For instance, Chanakya's strategy to overthrow the Nanda dynasty involved feigned alliances and misleading actions, ultimately paving the way for Chandragupta Maurya's ascent to power. The Trojan Horse Strategy One of the most iconic examples of concealed intentions comes from Greek mythology: the Trojan Horse. The Greeks, unable to breach Troy’s walls through conventional warfare, resorted to a deceptive tactic. They presented the Trojans with a wooden horse as a gift, concealing soldiers within. This act of concealed intent led to Troy’s downfall and remains a symbol of strategic cunning. Mughal Emperor Akbar’s Diplomacy Akbar, known for his administrative genius, often concealed his long-term intentions to foster alliances. His policy of religious tolerance and matrimonial alliances was a strategic move to consolidate power, ensuring loyalty while preventing rebellion. These alliances, while appearing altruistic, were calculated efforts to strengthen the empire. World War II Deceptions In modern warfare, concealing intentions has been a critical strategy. During World War II, the Allies employed Operation Bodyguard to mislead Nazi forces about the location of the D-Day invasion. By creating false intelligence and decoy operations, they successfully diverted enemy attention, securing a pivotal victory. Ancient Strategies and Modern Applications The timelessness of the principle of concealing intentions lies in its adaptability. Strategies rooted in ancient wisdom continue to inform modern practices across various domains, proving their universality and relevance. Governance and Leadership In ancient India, rulers like Ashoka and Krishna exemplified ethical discretion in leadership. Krishna's role in the Mahabharata showcases the delicate balance between revealing and concealing intentions. For instance, his advice to Arjuna often involved withholding certain details to maintain focus on the broader goal of dharma. Modern leaders adopt similar strategies. For example: Corporate Leadership: CEOs often maintain confidentiality about mergers or product launches to safeguard competitive advantage. Diplomatic Relations: Governments use backchannel communications and calculated silence to negotiate sensitive agreements without public scrutiny. Business and Competitive Markets Concealing intentions is a cornerstone of business strategy, where revealing too much can lead to lost opportunities. Ancient trade practices often relied on guarded information about sources, routes, and pricing to maintain an edge. In today’s business world, this principle manifests as: Market Positioning: Companies like Apple are known for their secrecy around product development. This creates anticipation while preventing competitors from imitating innovations. Negotiation Tactics: Concealing one's bottom line or ultimate goals during negotiations often results in more favorable outcomes. Technology and Cybersecurity In the digital age, the principle finds relevance in cybersecurity. Concealing vulnerabilities in software or networks is essential to protect against cyberattacks. Ethical hackers and cybersecurity experts often adopt stealthy approaches to identify and neutralize threats. Additionally: Startups and Innovations: Entrepreneurs often operate in stealth mode, concealing their projects until they are ready to launch. This prevents premature competition and ensures intellectual property protection. Interpersonal Relationships On a personal level, concealing intentions can foster healthier interactions. Ancient Indian texts highlight the importance of discretion in speech and actions. The Manusmriti advises individuals to be mindful of what they share, emphasizing that unnecessary disclosure can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts. Modern applications include: Conflict Resolution: Concealing immediate emotional reactions can prevent escalation, allowing for more thoughtful responses. Relationship Building: Gradually revealing one’s intentions in relationships builds trust and understanding over time. Ethical Considerations in Concealing Intentions While the strategic value of concealing intentions is undeniable, its ethical implications cannot be ignored. The principle must be applied judiciously, ensuring that it aligns with broader values of fairness and dharma. Transparency vs. Discretion The tension between transparency and discretion is particularly pronounced in governance and business. Ethical discretion involves concealing intentions only to the extent necessary to protect collective interests or achieve long-term goals. Avoiding Manipulation Concealing intentions should not devolve into deceit or exploitation. The Vedic emphasis on dharma provides a framework for ethical concealment, ensuring that actions are guided by righteousness and do not harm others. Building Trust Through Actions Concealing intentions does not preclude accountability. Trust can still be built through consistent, ethical actions, even when motives are not fully disclosed. The psychological basis of concealing intentions underscores its profound impact on human behavior, strategy, and trust. From ancient rulers to modern innovators, the principle has been a vital tool for navigating complexity and achieving goals. However, its application must be tempered by ethical considerations, drawing inspiration from Vedic teachings that emphasize dharma as the guiding light. By blending ancient strategies with modern insights, this chapter demonstrates that concealing intentions is not inherently deceitful. When employed with integrity and purpose, it becomes a powerful mechanism for fostering trust, protecting interests, and bridging ethical gaps in an increasingly interconnected world. Unethical Applications in Modern Practices Advertisement & Marketing Advertisement and marketing, pivotal aspects of the global economy, operate at the intersection of creativity, psychology, and strategy. While these practices aim to communicate value and foster brand loyalty, their darker side often employs secrecy and manipulation, straying from ethical boundaries. This chapter explores how modern marketing exploits secrecy, the techniques employed, and the ethical concerns it raises, using illustrative examples like Apple’s product secrecy and Tesla’s strategies in electric vehicle (EV) technology. Secrecy and Manipulation in Advertising Secrecy has always been a powerful tool in advertising, creating a sense of exclusivity and anticipation. However, when secrecy shifts from genuine innovation to manipulative practices, it risks undermining consumer trust. Hype Creation Through Omission Companies often withhold critical details about their products or services, generating curiosity and hype. This tactic can lead to inflated consumer expectations, which, if unmet, cause dissatisfaction. Exploiting Consumer Psychology Marketing thrives on understanding consumer behavior. By strategically concealing certain aspects, marketers can tap into cognitive biases like the scarcity effect (perceived value of limited availability) or the bandwagon effect (desire to follow trends). The Illusion of Choice Some brands present carefully curated information to create an illusion of choice while steering consumers toward pre-determined outcomes. This manipulation often goes unnoticed, as it exploits subconscious decision-making processes. Techniques of Secrecy in Marketing Modern marketing employs sophisticated techniques that combine secrecy with psychological triggers, resulting in powerful campaigns that captivate audiences. 1. Teaser Campaigns Teaser campaigns rely on partial information to pique curiosity. These campaigns often use cryptic messages, images, or videos to build anticipation without revealing the full picture. Example: Movie studios frequently release teaser trailers months before full-length trailers, ensuring sustained interest in upcoming releases. 2. Controlled Leaks Controlled leaks are a deliberate strategy where companies “accidentally” release information about a product. This creates a buzz, making consumers feel they are part of an exclusive group with insider knowledge. Example: In 2015, Google "leaked" images of its Nexus phone just weeks before its official launch, boosting pre-launch interest. 3. Limited Editions and Flash Sales By emphasizing exclusivity and urgency, companies manipulate consumers into quick purchasing decisions. These tactics thrive on the fear of missing out (FOMO). Example: Fashion brands like Supreme release limited-edition collections, fostering a frenzy among their loyal followers. 4. Strategic Ambiguity Ambiguity in advertisements creates room for interpretation, allowing consumers to project their desires onto a product. This technique often leverages aspirational imagery and vague language. Example: Luxury car commercials often highlight the lifestyle associated with ownership rather than technical specifications, making the product aspirational rather than practical. Read the full article

[trayoungvis]

நீங்கள் ஏன் எங்களுக்கு வாக்களிக்க வேண்டும்? | இலங்கையின் மாநகரதேர்தல் 2025 | Sri Lankan Election

நீங்கள் ஏன் எங்களுக்கு வாக்களிக்க வேண்டும்? | இலங்கையின் மாநகர தேர்தல் 2025 | Sri Lankan Election" presents a discussion about the upcoming municipal elections in Sri Lanka, focusing on the motivations for voters to support their candidates. Below is a comprehensive summary of the video, highlighting the main topics, key points, and takeaways.

Summary:

1. Introduction to Political Landscape [00:00 - 00:14]

The speaker reflects on the long-standing trend of actors entering politics in Tamil Nadu, suggesting that similar dynamics may be at play in Sri Lanka. The focus shifts to the importance of addressing the everyday issues of ordinary people rather than the glitz of politics.

             Click to watch the full interview here 2. Service Over Politics [00:19 - 00:40]

There is a strong emphasis on the need for genuine service to the public. The speaker criticizes the current political culture where elected officials do not engage with voters after elections, advocating for a change in this approach.

              Click to watch the full interview here 3. Vision for Change [00:42 - 01:04]

The candidates position themselves as a source of hope and light for Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo, and express their intent to expand their efforts once they gain initial traction.

                          Click to watch the full interview here

  4. Candidate Backgrounds and Experience [01:57 - 03:12]

Mr. Vasu, a journalist with over 15 years of experience, is introduced. He has been involved in various sectors and is recognized for his contributions to media and politics. The speaker discusses Vasu's transition into politics, highlighting his commitment to serving the community.

Click to watch the full interview here

5. Political Aspirations and Team Composition [04:19 - 05:00]

The team includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, all eager to contribute to local governance. They aim to bring fresh ideas and services to the municipal council, focusing on practical issues faced by the community.

Click to watch the full interview here

6. Addressing Local Issues [06:05 - 06:34]

The candidates outline their commitment to resolving everyday problems such as water supply, waste management, and road conditions. Their goal is to provide tangible solutions to improve the quality of life for residents.

Click to watch the full interview here

7. Engagement with Voters [07:02 - 08:26]

The candidates emphasize the importance of connecting with the electorate and delivering on promises made during the campaign. They acknowledge the challenges of competing against established political parties but believe in their capacity to resonate with voters through service.

Click to watch the full interview here

8. Political Integrity and Accountability [08:30 - 09:09]

The discussion touches on the need for integrity in politics, with candidates expressing their desire to maintain accountability and transparency in their actions once elected.

Click to watch the full interview here

9. Cultural Context of Voting [12:01 - 13:42]

The speaker contrasts voting practices in India and Sri Lanka, asserting that Sri Lankans value sincerity over monetary incentives in elections. They believe that genuine engagement with the community will lead to electoral success.

Click to watch the full interview here

10. Support for Women in Politics [16:21 - 17:26]

The candidates advocate for increased representation of women in political positions, highlighting the government's efforts to enhance women's participation in leadership roles.

Click to watch the full interview here

11. Conclusion and Call to Action [18:37 - 19:00]

The video concludes with a strong call for voters to support their candidacy, promising to address local issues and work collaboratively with the government to improve community conditions. The candidates express gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the audience.

Click to watch the full interview here

Key Takeaways:

The candidates prioritize public service and community engagement over traditional political maneuvering.

They aim to address pressing local issues directly affecting residents' daily lives.

The importance of integrity and accountability in political office is emphasized.

There is a commitment to empower women and ensure their representation in politics.

The campaign seeks to build trust with voters, contrasting with the existing political culture of disconnection after elections.

This summary encapsulates the essence of the video, providing insights into the candidates' motivations and their vision for the upcoming municipal elections in Sri Lanka.

[nismo-omsin]

The Constitution Has No Exceptions: Why Veterans (and All Americans) Should Be Alarmed

By Nismo & Sage — Veteran & Advocate for Constitutional Integrity

⸻

We Swore an Oath to Defend the Constitution — Not a Man

Every service member took the same oath:

“I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”

That oath wasn’t to a political party. It wasn’t to a president. It was to the Constitution itself.

Yet, Donald Trump has repeatedly undermined the very system we pledged to protect. This is not about personal opinions—it is about documented violations of law, the Constitution, and core American values.

Here are just a few undeniable examples that should concern every veteran, service member, and citizen.

⸻

1. Undermining the Separation of Powers

What Happened:

• Pressured the Department of Justice to act as his personal legal team.

• Tried to force Vice President Mike Pence to reject certified electoral votes.

• Attacked judges and courts who ruled against him.

Violations:

• U.S. Constitution, Article I, II, III → Establishes three co-equal branches of government.

• 12th Amendment → Defines the VP’s limited role in counting electoral votes.

• Electoral Count Act (1887) → Prohibits tampering with election certification.

• Oath of Office Clause (Article VI) → Officials swear loyalty to the Constitution, not a president.

Why It Matters: If a president can manipulate the courts and Congress, democracy collapses into dictatorship.

⸻

2. Attempting to Deploy the U.S. Military Against Civilians

What Happened:

• Threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to send active-duty troops against protestors.

• Ordered the violent clearing of Lafayette Square for a photo-op with a Bible.

• Was rebuked by top military leaders for trying to politicize the armed forces.

Violations:

• First Amendment → Protects free speech and peaceful assembly.

• Posse Comitatus Act (18 U.S. Code § 1385) → Prohibits using active-duty military for domestic law enforcement.

• U.S. Constitution, Article II, Section 2 → Limits the president’s military power within constitutional boundaries.

Why It Matters: The U.S. military serves the nation, not one man’s political interests.

⸻

3. Filling the Pentagon with Unqualified Loyalists

What Happened:

• Appointed unqualified, partisan officials like Christopher Miller & Anthony Tata to key defense roles.

• Bypassed Senate confirmation by exploiting loopholes.

• Purged career military leaders who refused to show personal loyalty.

Violations:

• Federal Vacancies Reform Act (5 U.S. Code § 3345-3349d) → Limits a president’s ability to install unconfirmed officials.

• U.S. Constitution, Article II, Section 2 → Requires Senate confirmation for key officials.

• Oath of Office Clause (Article VI) → Officials must be loyal to the Constitution, not a single leader.

Why It Matters: The Pentagon should be run by professionals, not political puppets.

⸻

4. Retaliating Against Officials Who Defended the Constitution

What Happened:

• Fired Secretary of Defense Mark Esper for opposing military force against Americans.

• Removed Lt. Colonel Alexander Vindman for testifying truthfully during impeachment.

• Fired Chris Krebs, the top cybersecurity official, for confirming the 2020 election was secure.

Violations:

• Whistleblower Protection Act (5 U.S. Code § 2302) → Protects federal employees from retaliation.

• First Amendment → Protects public employees’ right to testify truthfully.

• U.S. Constitution, Article II, Section 3 → Requires the president to faithfully execute the law.

Why It Matters: Firing officials for telling the truth is what authoritarians do.

⸻

5. Threatening to Revoke Visas from Peaceful Protesters

What Happened:

• Suggested revoking visas or deporting lawful immigrants for protesting against genocide, the U.S. and/or Israeli policies.

• Threatened to strip First Amendment rights from those who opposed him.

Violations:

• First Amendment → Protects free speech for all people in the U.S., including lawful immigrants.

• Kleindienst v. Mandel (1972) → Supreme Court case affirming immigrants’ free speech rights.

• Fifth Amendment → Prohibits depriving any person (not just citizens) of liberty without due process.

Why It Matters: Free speech applies to everyone in America—not just to those who agree with the president.

⸻

Case Study: The Classified Documents Scandal

“If You or I Had Hidden Classified Documents in Our Bathrooms, We’d Be in Prison.” - Nismo

What Happened:

• Took over 300 classified documents, including national defense files.

• Stored them in a bathroom and a public ballroom at Mar-a-Lago.

• Ordered staff to hide documents from federal agents.

Violations:

• Espionage Act (18 U.S. Code § 793e) → Criminalizes the unauthorized retention of national defense documents.

• Obstruction of Justice (18 U.S. Code § 1519) → Illegal to conceal evidence in an investigation.

• U.S. Constitution, Article II, Section 3 → Requires a president to faithfully execute the laws.

Compare:

• Reality Winner → 63 months for leaking one document.

• Harold Martin → 9 years for unauthorized retention.

• Chelsea Manning → 35 years (later commuted) for classified disclosures.

Yet, Trump took hundreds of documents, obstructed justice, and remains free.

⸻

Conclusion: This Is Bigger Than Politics

Ignoring these violations because you like a politician doesn’t make you loyal—it makes you complicit.

The Constitution wasn’t written for when governing is easy. It was written for when it is hardest. If we let one man place himself above the law, we will have no law left to defend.

Veterans, service members, and patriots: The Constitution has no exceptions. Our oath still stands.

⸻

Sources & References

• U.S. Constitution (Articles I, II, III, VI; Amendments 1, 5, 12)

• Federal Whistleblower Protection Act (5 U.S. Code § 2302)

• Posse Comitatus Act (18 U.S. Code § 1385)

• Espionage Act (18 U.S. Code § 793e)

• Obstruction of Justice (18 U.S. Code § 1519)

• Electoral Count Act (1887)

• Kleindienst v. Mandel (1972)

[topindiannews1]

[durantbarta]

“রাজ্য প্রশাসনের নগ্ন চেহারাটা আবারও বেরিয়ে পড়ল”, তোপ সুজনের

https://durantbarta.com/kolkata/the-naked-face-of-the-state-administration-has-been-exposed-again-top-sujan

[cotxapi]

Elon Musk promised $100/signature. Thousands say they never got paid. Enter: Shannon Liss-Riordan — the lawyer billionaires don’t want to see in court. ⚖️🔥

✅ 2 lawsuits filed (so far) over unpaid political canvassers ✅ 2,000+ arbitration cases against X for unpaid severance ✅ Vendors & gig workers? She’s fighting for them, too ✅ Musk’s favorite excuse: “We’re auditing for fraud” 🚨 But she’s not backing down. Ever.

[edparnell]

Liz Kendall and Rachel Reeves are determined for Labour to carry on the Tory austerity measures by picking on disabled and sick people to make up the shortfall they find in their own calculations. But cutting welfare never works in good of bad times. Could this be just another gimmick to get knuckle draggers to do a mass nodding session, or is something more ideological an sinister behind it all?