I am writing about the historic nomination of Hillary Clinton as the Democratic nominee for president. No doubt she made history but there is another story that people are missing.
The Democrats are simply playing with people’s emotions and not addressing the real issues facing the American public. It’s not a matter of painting a dark picture of modern America but of highlighting the problems.
If we don’t bring ourselves to acknowledge that we have problems, how can we improve them? Bringing jobs back to Americans is critical. So is restoring law and order across the country.
America today is not the same as it was 10 years ago. There are new threats that require new strategies. It can’t be business as usual.
Randall Mohammed, Dubai
We should teach self-defence
It was interesting to read your story, Attempted rapist who was beaten up by karate expert is jailed (July 28).
I believe that self-defence techniques should be taught in schools instead of, or in addition to, physical education classes many schools offer.
There are many cases where women or children are trapped and don’t know how to protect themselves against violent acts. If more people are taught karate, there will be a higher chance that they can protect themselves.
Maryam Al Hersi, Abu Dhabi
How to make minibuses safe
I found you editorial on the state of minibuses to be timely and correct (How do we make minibuses safe? July 28).
One issue that I believe the minibus companies must address is customer service.
I once called the number on the back of a minibus to complain about the erratic driving.
It was the driver who answered my call – and he shouted at me.
Ziad El Rahy, Dubai
I have advice for minibus drivers: look at the road ahead when driving and don’t speed around corners.
Every day I see this happen on the roads, whether it be workers or tourists being transported.
Lisa Justice, Abu Dhabi
I have several recommendations to make minibuses safer on the roads.
Equipping each minibus with GPS locators and a speed lock will instantly make them safer.
I see minibuses in a fast lane of the motorway driving at close to 140 kilometres per hour. They should not be allowed in these lanes for safety reasons.
Najla Daair, Dubai
Petrol prices should flow
I am very happy that fuel prices will be reduced by 15 fils per litre in August (UAE petrol prices to fall for first time in five months, July 28).
As a consumer, it is refreshing to note that this critical item will be cheaper, especially at a time that many daily consumables are becoming more expensive.
My hope is that this discount is reflected in the cost of other products. Lower prices would be a great relief to many in society.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
A sad day for Japan
The horrific attack in Japan (Hatred behind troubled Japan knife attacker's rampage, July 26) should serve as a moment of pause for the country.
The attack, reportedly committed by a former employee of a disabled home, saw 19 people killed.
This mentally disturbed attacker was reportedly taking revenge but it is unclear what he was taking revenge for.
The attacker is a threat to Japan and should be put in safe custody for a long time.
We must all pray for the victims and hope that the injured recover quickly.
K Ragavan, India
Flag is a symbol of great pride
I am writing about the love for one's country on the occasion of the replacement of flags in Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi to replace damaged UAE flags, July 25). The love for one's nation can't be measured by small initiatives alone.
One’s patriotism imbibes all kinds of emotions that can be expressed in a national flag.
I am proud and happy that Abu Dhabi will get fresh flags that showcase our joint pride in the nation on a daily basis.
Name withheld by request