High-ranking officials , worried about appearing weak or disloyal , will be more reluctant to suggest reforms that loosen the regime 's grip . Kim Jong Un accused his uncle of betrayal ; North Korea media say uncle was executed . Frida Ghitis : This tactic used by Saddam Hussein in consolidating his power . Ghitis : The U.S. and its allies have been using this strategy to try to topple the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad, who is a member of the minority Alawite sect that has ruled Syria for more than four Kim is sending a brutal message that he will punish any whisper of dissent , Ghitis says .
Kim Jong Un accused his uncle of betrayal ; North Korea media say uncle was executed . Frida Ghitis : This tactic used by Saddam Hussein in consolidating his power . Ghitis : The U.S. and its allies have been using this strategy to try to topple the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad, who is a member of the minority Alawite sect that has ruled Syria for more than four Kim is sending a brutal message that he will punish any whisper of dissent , Ghitis says .