I read with interest the article “Duterte’s war on drugs” (Sept. 4) by Rasheed Abou-Alsamh. I do agree with the writer that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte should try to act wisely. We do understand that corruption and drugs have become huge problems for the country but in a bid to wipe these menaces out he may unintentionally harm the very fabric of the society he is so sincerely trying to build on strong foundations free of drugs and corruption.
Vigilantism is not the answer to the complex social issues. Nobody doubts Duterte’s intentions. His past record tells us that he believes in action and does not like wasting time and his approach produced results. However, his position has changed. From a city’s mayor, he has become the president of a country and now whether or not he likes it, foreign entities and powers will pass comments on his actions. The Filipinos have given him a mandate. They trust him and his skills. He should tread carefully and think about the consequences of his actions. He may treat one problem only to create a new one i.e. vigilantism. — Qasim Mirza, Jubail
Tread carefully
