The federal government must get to the truth about the deaths of more than 80 people in Waco, Tex.
Only a few weeks ago, there was great public discussion about the need to do away with the independent prosecutor's office. This came after the long and costly investigation of the Clintons, the Whitewater case, obstruction of justice, etc.
Now, Atty. Gen Janet Reno is calling for an independent investigator to try to find the truth behind the Branch Davidian assault and eventual deaths of more than 80 people. The incident poses many puzzling questions. Just what happened? Were incendiary devices used, and, if so, who authorized their use? Why was there a long cover-up and lies? Did Reno know about this? How about Clinton? Did the FBI act on its own or were others involved?
As noted in a recent editorial, there is no justification for lying, whether it is the president, the FBI or others. Once caught in a lie, how can a person or an organization ever be believed in the future?
Kenneth Starr did what he was supposed to do as an independent prosecutor in the Clinton-Whitewater mess. It lasted longer and cost more than many had expected, but the Clintons and others used every possible tactic to delay and obstruct Starr as he worked toward completing his mission.
Nevertheless, it was important to have an independent prosecutor investigating this ugly and embarrassing matter.
Likewise, it is important to get to the truth of the Waco disaster. Who lied? Who knew? And who gave the orders? If it hadn't been for the constant digging of reporters at the Dallas Daily News, the lies probably never would have been revealed. Now that they have been exposed, it is terribly important that the public be given all the facts.
This is why it is important to have an independent investigation headed by an individual known for his or her honesty and who has the respect of leaders of both political parties.
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