Let revenge not be the criteria

But that is not the end of the story. Irrespective of what fate Aziz meets, this brinkmanship aspect of Talabani has posed a host of questions, whose answers will go a long way in rewriting the tale of saga and deception that Iraqis have faced under the former dictatorship and his henchmen. Though there may hardly be any sympathisers of Mr Aziz, taking into account his involvement in crimes against humanity committed under his nose as the foreign minister and as a trusted associate of the former regime, it goes without saying that there couldn’t be any better revenge than reconciliation and forgiveness as the war-weary resilient nation rises from the ashes of dictatorship and destruction.

Talabani, however, seems to be a bit confused in taking a categorical stance. He argues that he would never sign the death warrant because of Aziz’s age and because he is an Iraqi Christian. This is an unqualified assumption and might fall under the spotlight of bias and favouratism. Way back in 2006 as well, Talabani had refused to sign the execution of former president Saddam Hussein, but the forces of real politick came into action and the dictator was hanged to death. How different will be Aziz’s fate is not difficult to guess. The president’s office says that Mr Talabani is an ardent critic of capital punishment, and thus is irked to sign on the dotted line. While his stance is appreciated, it however, misses the canon of justice and fair play when it comes to the law of the land. If that is the case, what stops the head of state from moving ahead and legislating against death penalty? Taking refuge behind his personal perception and 
that too in the case of a hardened criminal is unwarranted.

While Iraq is in the middle of a drawn-out process of rebuilding and government formation, it would be better advised not to touch upon such issues that might add to controversies. With Aziz having surrendered himself voluntarily, there is no harm in 
taking a lenient stance in the name 
of compassion.