The Foreign Service Journal, October 2003

machine-gun fire): three for mur- der and two for drug crimes. Amnesty International reports that more than 600 people are on death row there, some 70 percent of them on narcotics charges. In February 2003, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra began an aggressive campaign against drug dealers that by mid-year had resulted in more than 2,000 deaths and is being expanded to include a broader range of “dark influences.” The gov- ernment claims that only 51 of the deaths were the result of police action while the rest were internecine killings among drug dealers, but most outside observers consider the bulk of them to be extrajudicial executions. Whatever the numbers and means of execution of those killed, Thai public opinion has strongly supported Thaksin’s campaign. Malaysia is equally unsenti- mental about administering its death penalty. Visitors to the country are greeted at points of entry with anti-trafficking signs that read “POSSESSION OF DADAH (drugs) IS DEATH,” and some foreigners have in fact been executed for dealing in nar- cotics. Though capital punish- ment is most frequently applied for drug infractions, the only exe- cutions reported in 2002 were those of three men hanged, on the same day, for the murder of a state assemblyman. As in Thailand, I encountered no appre- ciable opposition to the death penalty among Malaysians. Much more deeply concerned about the country’s draconian Internal Security Act, they see cap- ital punishment as necessary in the fight against crime, particularly when confronting the scourge of narcotics. F O C U S O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 45 The U.S. dwells on capital punishment in human rights reports only when there are perceived deficiencies in legal processes. We offer spacious beautifully appointed suites which are ideal for business or pleasure. Our One Bedroom Suites: full kitchens, stovetops, refrigerators, dishwashers and dinette area, living rooms with sleep sofas, master bedroom and full bath. There’s more . . . those on full per diem at $150.00 + tax daily rate receive: • 2 times/week receive a $22 coupon for dinner at a local participating restaurant • Continental breakfast • Weekly buffet dinner • Daily maid service • Free local calls • Health club • Internet access in lobby • Weekend transport to local hot spots For example: Potomac Mills Mall or Mt. Vernon! Experience the Appealing Charm … 108 South Courthouse Road 610 Bashford Lane Arlington, VA 22204 Alexandria, VA 22314 703-522-2582 (club) 703-739-2582 arlington@dcexeclub.com alexandria@dcexeclub.com Two Convenient Locations: Our “Rosslyn” Guests are moving to our Arlington or Alexandria locations.... Executive Club Suites of Arlington now offers dedicated units for our Foreign Service guests! In addition to all the service, amenities and courteous staff you have been used to, we offer more . . . • Electronic locks on guest rooms • 3 miles to NFATC RT shuttle • RT Grocery pickup weekly • Outdoor pool & Jacuzzi in fabulous setting • Grilling area We accept the first sliding per diem (your 100% for 60 days, then the 50% reduction w/weekly maid & w/o meal coupons.) Central Reservations: 703-739-2582 extension 1405 www.execlubdc.com or reservations@dcexeclub.com