you're right in a way dagless, and so is the OP, and i don't feel members should fear harsh repercussions for speaking their minds.
but don't you think the mods have a right to choose how they keep the forum running as long as it doesn't infringe on our rights?
like say for instance, two members decide to talk about a controversial or very delicate issue that is illegal according to fascist governments and could jeopardize the forum itself, wouldn't it be better that they just share contacts and speak privately?
i personally don't shy away from speaking the truth as long as it is part of Islam, but i do try to respect the need to not overburden others.
how do you think it would fare for the forum if they got into trouble?
hence i mentioned the privately owned issue.
i definitely believe the mods should never use information against someone in order to penalize them or get them into trouble, but a little nudge to tone it down can be useful.
i've seen how newspapers use "mosque gatherings" etc to go after mosques etc.
Yusuf Ali
Among them are men who molest the Prophet and say, "He is (all) ear." Say, "He listens to what is best for you: he believes in Allah, has faith in the Believers, and is a Mercy to those of you who believe." But those who molest the Messenger will have a grievous penalty.
Sahih International
And among them are those who abuse the Prophet and say, "He is an ear." Say, "[It is] an ear of goodness for you that believes in Allah and believes the believers and [is] a mercy to those who believe among you." And those who abuse the Messenger of Allah - for them is a painful punishment.
please note, i do not compare the mods to the governments who spy on people in order to harm them and who use intelligence prevent goodness and spread chaos across the globe.
i am actually adamant in demanding that people have privacy from these wolves in sheep's clothing.