Chiquita Revisited

Back in 1998 there was a shit storm over an investigative report in the Cincinnati Enquirer over the activities of Chiquita Banana in Latin America.

What was interesting beyond the story of corporate malfeasance was how power was actually yielded internationally and within US political and circles. I have been watching the program the Wire of late and it reminded of the story because when you have a bevy of cash and thus a bevy of lawyers you can figure out lots of ways to work the system; not just political channels but also through the criminal justice system (at many levels-police, prosecuters, judges, federal offices) and the media.

Chiquita was able to work all aspects of the system including the President's office to get the US trade representative to pitch their case internationally.

And if all else fails, hire a death squad!