Myanmar, formerly, Burma, has a record--- stretching back 50 years--of an oppressive government forcing its will on the people. I am reminded of the North Koreans , the Cubans (to a lesser extent), and modern Zimbabwe.

When a disaster like the dreaded cyclone of a week ago strikes such a country the leaders are suspicious of any attempts to provide aid. In fact they think they have everything under control --not realising that this is a disaster of massive proportions AND they cannot possibly provide the rescue efforts needed. Of course what happens then is that this corrupt fellowship hijacks the aid that has been allowed in and provides its people with the dregs of the aid while the elite collect the best donations--probably to sell it off!

That is why relief workers are not welcome. They would upset the applecart and expose corruption that lies at the heart of all Myanmar's problems. These people are living in a secluded enclave that is suspicious of a different coloured rat running in their sewers.

The Myanmar situation is getting worse by the day but I applaud the fact that America was on standby to help within 24 hours. So was Britain and many others. People easily condemn Western countries nowadays but if help is needed they are there with the necessary aid and equipment. Sadly it is allowed to trickle in but only at the behest of the ruling junta--and even sadder, no foreigner is welcome to distribute the aid.

Today, the Thais were told thanks, but no thank you. Even though they were willing to provide succour to thousands, maybe even millions.

That is Myanmar today. A huge natural disaster. Aid offered by the best. Mainly ignored.

God help them.