London – Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher passed away yesterday. Her achievements are too numerous to list here, but for me, the most significant by far was her substantial role in dismantling communism. As a guest in this country, it offers a perfect opportunity to contrast how the British handle the death of a phenomenal political leader. When Hugo Chávez died over a month ago, several BBC programs called for my comment. The sheer shock of the BBC staff upon learning that I felt a bit pleased about Chávez’s passing was quite a sight to behold. The accusatory silence and reproachful glances that followed my remark were rather uncomfortable, and I had to explain the reasons behind my sentiments.
In stark contrast, however, is the reaction to Thatcher’s death. Over the past day or so, a barrage of Thatcher critics have been honored across all British media, and they, let me tell you dear readers, have shown not the slightest remorse, no scruple whatsoever to express, often angrily, their delight at Thatcher’s demise. Interestingly, such attitudes did not provoke any negative response from interviewers or moderators; no disapproving looks, no awkward silences—nothing. This stance is not only accepted but also encouraged and shared by the majority of left-leaning British media.
Voicing a blinding hatred for Margaret Thatcher is perfectly fine, while criticism of Hugo Chávez is frowned upon.
This leads me to highlight not only the sheer hypocrisy of the left but also its racism, embodied in positions that condemn any joy over Chávez’s death while expressing radical views regarding Thatcher’s passing. It’s acceptable to hate Thatcher, wish for her death, and feel disheartened by the failure of the IRA to assassinate her while listening to the terrorist Gerry Adams deliver his “verdict” on her legacy. But heaven forbid anyone says that Chávez’s death is actually a significant improvement for Venezuelan democracy! The majority of the left in this country seems impervious to such impossibly contradictory stances, but then again, the left has never been characterized by coherence and principles, right?