The Mitterrand Letter

Has French President Francois Mitterrand once again suggested that’s it’s time for French Polynesia to adopt a personal income tax system? That is one

key interpretation being made by Flosse

Government officials following publi cation on July 24 of an exchange ofletters between retired politician Francis Sanford and the French President.

Sanford’s letter, dated June 21, was written on the second day of a six-day anti-tax demonstration that blocked off the two roads leading into and out of the west side of downtown Papeete. The letter warned Mitterrand of the situation in French Polynesia and solicited his personal intervention to bring about “a little of the serenity desired by all”.

Mitterrand’s reply, dated July 18, indicated, in effect, that he was not in favour of anti-democratic violence. But the letter also clearly emphasised Mitterrand’s personal attachment to

“fighting against illegalities that con

tinue to compromise the social, economic and cultural development to which Polynesians legitimately aspire to”.

The word “inegalities” has been

interpreted by Flosse government offic ials to be a reference to French Poly nesia’s need to create an income tax system, something that nearly all local politicians are adamantly opposed to.

If that interpretation is correct, it marks the second time in a year that Mitterrand has made the suggestion.

When in Papeete in May last year, Mitterrand said that the territory’s tax system is based almost exclusively on consumption, a reference to the heavy taxes on imports. “Such a system,” he said, “can hardly respond to the obli gation of a fair distribution of wealth.”

Mitterrand told Sanford in his July 18 letter: “Your observations are very useful to me because I know your concern should find ways of solving the heart of

the problems facing the territory. I’m

noting all of your advice.”

Sanford’s letter, which Flosse read and approved of before it was sent, created an image of a gloomy horizon for French Polynesia. It said: “Our recent history undoubtedly has yet to find a means of evolution that is acceptable to all. The learning process of democracy is an undertaking of patience.” □