Word: reformer
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...group, Western journalists granted a rare visit to the North by Kim Jong Il's secretive regime, would get no closer to this supposedly showcase example of economic reform. The government's reluctance to show off anything that smacked of capitalism was symptomatic of an ominous new mood in Pyongyang. Recent baby steps toward reform and greater openness kindled a glimmer of hope that the North could be coaxed out of isolation. Now Kim, perhaps fearful that private enterprise and greater contact with the outside world would undermine his power, seems to have reversed course. Earlier this month, Pyongyang banned...
...expected next month, the U.S., China, South Korea, Japan and Russia will once again probe the North's willingness to trade its nuclear arsenal for massive amounts of aid. But any such deal would necessitate an influx of more foreign experts?including weapons inspectors. If Pyongyang has decided reform and engagement with the outside world are too risky, the prospects for a settlement are bleak...
...special commission was established to look into corruption in the police force. In recent months, however, prosecutions against corruption have dried up, and the police commission's recommendations have yet to be implemented. "Abdullah has appeared strangely indecisive," says human-rights activist S. Arulchelvam. "He speaks the reform language, but his reforms have run out of steam...
...Abdullah's supporters say their man is more likely to dedicate himself anew to reform. "Prepare to be surprised," says a senior UMNO official. "Worrying about Endon has been a distraction for the Prime Minister. Once he has had a chance to mourn her passing, you'll find that he comes back much more focused and more determined than ever to fulfill his agenda." Abdul Razak Baginda, who heads a pro-administration think tank, the Malaysian Strategic Research Center, observes: "He may even be stronger. After all, he promised his wife that he would soldier on and leave behind...
...simmering dispute between Abdullah's predecessor and one of his most senior cabinet ministers could be a bellwether of his commitment to reform. Mahathir and Rafidah Aziz, the International Trade and Industry Minister, are engaged in a very public spat over thousands of permits issued by her ministry to import cars. The ex-PM says the permit holders are circumventing heavy tariffs aimed at propping up the country's automobile industry, crippling Proton, the national car company he set up while in office. Mahathir has also noted that the largest recipient of import permits is a former senior official...