Blood Ransom Read Online Free PDF

curry and rice. “And if something does happen to go wrong, we blame it on the election committee. Either way, we come out looking good.”
    “Another violent election won’t make anyone look good, Patrick, and you know it.” Stephen balanced his plastic plate on his lap and picked up his drink from the floor beside him.
    “Stephen’s right.” Natalie scooped a spoonful of the salsa onto her plate. “I’d like to know what kind of security measures are being implemented so history doesn’t repeat itself.”
    Patrick grinned, clearly in his element. “I can assure you there is nothing to worry about. Troops are out on the streets in force from here to the capital, and if necessary, the UN has promised to employ extra reinforcements to ensure there are no serious security issues.”
    One of Natalie’s other guests stepped forward. “But do you actually think that the UN’s extra security is going to make a difference in the end for the people of this country?”
    Patrick’s smile faded. “I’m sorry, Miss…”
    “Gabby Mackenzie. I’m a journalist from the States in town for a couple days.”
    Natalie turned to Gabby, who’d contacted her recently for help in finding a translator and lodging while in the country. From what Natalie had since learned about her, the up-and-coming journalist wasn’t likely to be afraid of taking on a tough interview, the wilds of Africa, or Patrick, for that matter.
    “What exactly are you implying?” Patrick asked.
    Gabby kept her gaze even. “I’ve spent the past three weeks talking to dozens of investors and government officials from Lusaka to Dar es Salaam to Bogama, and while there are some who, I admit, want to help the people working for them, others are obviously exploiting their workers and pocketing the profits. So my question is how will having a new president, or even another term with the current president in this country, change things for the thousands of people being exploited?”
    Stephen dropped his fork onto his plate. “I believe our current president has promised to continue to fight against foreign and local investors involved in the exploitation of workers.”
    “I’ve heard the promises.” Gabby obviously wasn’t done making her point. “But the workers are the ones who pay the price—sometimeswith their lives—while foreign investors pay paltry wages and pocket the huge profits.”
    “I’m assuming you have a solution to this problem?” Patrick asked.
    Gabby set her empty plate on the edge of the table as if ready to take on the challenge. “For starters, business and foreign investors have to be held accountable, instead of allowing their workers to perform under such despicable conditions. Nor should governments accept every offer promising schools and roads when in exchange they are stripped of their natural resources—”
    Shaking her head, Gabby took a step back and caught Natalie’s gaze. “I’m sorry. Tonight’s supposed to be a celebration, not a time for me to stand on my soapbox.”
    Natalie couldn’t help but be impressed with the woman’s passion. “I don’t think anyone here is beneath a good debate. Isn’t that right, Patrick?”
    “Well said, but for now…” Patrick held up his Coke for a toast. “To Stephen and the Republic of Dhambizao. May both have many fruitful years of productivity—and peace—ahead of them.”
    “I hope you’re right.” Stephen held up his drink, smiled, and took a sip.
    While the group dispersed to help themselves to more food, Natalie poured more peanuts into the glass bowl.
    Gabby helped herself to a small handful. “I appreciate your inviting me here tonight. I’ve never been able to turn down a good homemade meal or a political debate.”
    “Then you’re at the right place.” Natalie chuckled. “At least for the political debate part.”
    Gabby laughed. “I don’t see anyone complaining about your food.”
    “Just know you’re welcome anytime you’re back in the