DIM PROSPECTS FOR RETIREMENT

AS an apolitical senior citizen, I have lived my personal and professional life morally, legally and ethically. Now that I am looking at retirement, I am disturbed by the change in the political climate that pervades the country.

I am concerned that my retirement may be marred by turbulence, given the way the current administration is running the affairs of this country.

The three branches of government show discouraging signs conducive to a disregard for the rule of law. The presidency lacks respect for our religious workers and religion itself, reminiscent of the indecency, criminality and lawlessness brought about by Hitler and Napoleon. A verbal cue from the President is enough for the ex- ecutive branch to cower in support and obedience, and be a contagious influence as well on the legislative and judiciary.

An example is the case of former chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, which signified that, even in the Supreme Court, the political will of the executive has become manifest. There is no more independence in the three branches of government.

The government disregards international commitments and shirks from defending our rightful interests, thus losing respect for our international standing.

Given this scenario, where is the security of our rights and our lives? God save us.