Yesterday’s tyrant: No riches, no rags also

In business, they call him a wheeler dealer. His rags are used to fight his enemies, perceived and otherwise. The less said about financial matters past, the better.

Some of his deals that came into question could soon create a sensation. The legal eagles are poring over the voluminous documents for an indictment. Little wonder those in the big city state shut their doors and told him “go back, clear you name and come.” He tried to do that with a senior-most politico who he had lambasted in the past but whose help he now needed. He was referred to a top cop. However, the cop declared there was nothing he could do.

Again, he went to the politico with a one-time close ministerial buddy who he also castigated in news sheets in the meanest way. Perhaps, he felt the buddy was now more important since he held a key portfolio, one where he could move and shake matters in any world capital. How the worm turns.

During the conversation with the politico, he confessed that he was no longer financially sound. His so called news empire was running at a dead loss. While sipping a tot of whisky offered to him, he asked if the politico was willing to take over his collapsing venture. With a wink, the politico in turn asked the minister to “look into the matter”.

While this was going on, a hireling is lobbying privately with business houses to buy over the venture. According to him, it is not only the monies owing to the bank and other assets that should be acquired. Even his services have to be retained. “No way, tush, tush,” said one businessman in the export trade.

During the conversation with the politico, he confessed that he was no longer financially sound. His so called news empire was running at a dead loss.