Don’t put words in others’ mouths
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Eric Bahrt criticised me by saying: “Telling people who disagree with you to shut up is not patriotism” (Letters, September 1).
I would agree with Mr Bahrt totally if what he accused me of doing were true.
It is undeniable that there are a few expatriate letter-writers who put words in other people’s mouths – and then use strong, derogatory words to attack them. Even though this practice is doable, it is not fair.
Fair-minded readers of this newspaper can decide for themselves whether what I have just described is true or not. All I have done in the past is ask for unprejudiced criticism of my country and its peace-loving citizens.
I invite Mr Bahrt to point out one instance when I did such a terrible thing as telling expats to “shut up”. If he can find even one, I would be more than willing to apologise.
Vint Chavala
