19 Slaughtered in Latest Boko Haram Attack

19 people have been slaughtered in the North Eastern province of Borno, Nigeria, in what is a suspected attack by the brutal militia group, Boko Haram. 

Sunday's attack took place on the
Borno-Cameroon border

In the early hours of Sunday morning, a gang of men on motorcycles formed a roadblock near Logumani, a town close to the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Armed with Kalashnikovs, the men ordered any unfortunate driver who encountered them, out of their car and onto the ground. One survivor, named only as Buba, told AFP reporters "We were asked to get out of our vehicles by nine men dressed as soldiers at about 5 am... they shot dead five people and went about slaughtering 14 others before someone called them on the phone that soldiers were heading their way." Another man 

Whilst the Boko Haram have not come forward to claim responsibility for the attack, survivors have told officials and journalists that their assailants were indeed members of the infamous militia. Despite wearing military uniforms, Buba cited their beards as an indicator they were not soldiers before adding "Everyone in the area knows Boko Haram are on the prowl, raiding villages and attacking vehicles."

Almost 2,000 people have been killed by the insurgents in the last two years alone with a high proportion of their victims children, due to their preference to target schools which they regard as symbols of the West. The name Boko Haram translates as "Western education is forbidden" which explains the group's propensity towards targeting schools which they view as Western symbols. Last month, the militants descended on an agricultural school, slaughtering almost 50 students.


Officially the group are fighting to establish an Islamic state in the North-East where there is a predominantly Muslim population. However, the fact the group is comprised of a number of militant factions along with the sheer brutality and disposition to target the weak and vulnerable, indicate they are little more than a gang of thugs. 

Thankfully, a tough military offensive launched earlier this year along with huge cooperation from the general public through the formation of local vigilante groups and informers, means Boko Haram's power has waned and they have been forced to the more remote areas of the North East. However, the attack on Sunday showed the group are still lingering on the sidelines, and until the group is eradicated, the people of North East Nigeria cannot be safe.

Lora

If you like my blog, feel free to follow me on Google+ or Twitter @LoradeeC

Kidnapping and Car Bombs Highlight Libya Instability

Lawlessness in Libya continues to threaten the country's stability as this week the world bore witness to not only an attack on a Swedish consulate but also to the failed kidnapping of the Prime Minister.

Ali Zeidan came to power in 2012 and, unlike his predecessor, Mustafa Abu Shagar, has successfully formed a 200 strong Congress filled with a wide mix of MPs following the first democratic election in decades. The successful formation of Congress was down to Zeidan carefully ensuring there was a good balance of Liberals and Islamists from all parts of the country, allowing all ethnicities and locales a representative.

 Unfortunately, the fact remains that the government has little authority over the country which remains deeply divided by a multitude of ethnic, tribal and geographical factions. There are many issues destabilizing the country which the government need to work through to regain stability in the country including promoting peace between the country's different ethnic groups and resolving unfair wealth distribution particularly in regards to oil and gas profits. These problems mean it is a fertile breeding ground for extremist groups, including al-Qaeda. 

Al-Libi at a ceremony in 2012

Abu Anas al-Libi, the suspected leader of the Libyan al-Qaeda branch, has been enjoying huge support throughout the country, particularly in the last two years. Indeed his popularity was highlighted earlier this week as pictures emerged on al-Qaeda forums showing him attending a very public ceremony in his honour for his role in ousting Col. Gaddafi in 2011. Al-Libi was indicted back in 2000 following the 1998 attacks on American embassies in Tanzania and Kenya and a $5 million dollar reward was offered for his capture. Despite this, he still enjoyed a rather public life in Tripoli, easily drawing large crowds and conducting public speeches, which show just how much influence he, and potentially al-Qaeda, have on the Libyan capital city. Therefore, it is unsurprising that following his capture last week by American special forces his supporters are somewhat rankled. After learning the Libyan government had been informed of American intentions prior to his capture, al-Libi's supporters decided on swift retaliation. On Thursday, over 150 armed militia, including some from his own security forces, descended on Tripoli's Corinthia Hotel, and kidnapped the country's Premier. 

Zeidan was kidnapped around 4am and taken to a militia base in the city's eastern district, Suq Juma. There were fears that with the Prime Minister arrested, a military coup was underway. Hope came from the Zintan militia group, who are loyal to the government who immediately condemned the attack and pledged their support. The militia volunteers joined forces with the army and, following a brief exchange of gunfire with Zeidan's captors, they ensured the release of their Prime Minister only hours after his abduction. 

Ali Zeidan during his kidnapping

The Prime Minister later thanked those who ensured his release on live television saying "I salute the revolutionaries who had an important role. Those who rose above greedy demands". Zeidan later dismissed the attack as an "accidental thing from the revolution's overthrow" calling it "part of every day political games in Libya." However, the Prime Minister has since expressed his concerns that the attack was indeed a failed coup d'etat that will be investigated in the coming days.

The kidnapping has prompted outcry from all corners with UN Secretary Ban Ki-Moon condemning it in "the strongest possible terms." Whilst the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, called it "thuggery", the UK and France immediately reiterated their support to Zeidan and his government. 

The following day, the Swedish Consulate in Benghazi, one of the few consulates in the area, was targeted as a remotely detonated car bomb exploded at the front of the building, causing damage to the Consulate and surrounding houses. Thankfully nobody was in the building at the

The car bomb left outside the Swedish Consulate 

time so only one person in the vicinity was wounded. This week's bombing is the latest in a string of vicious attacks on consulates, as earlier this month, Russian consulates were evacuated after gunmen attacked their compound in Tripoli. In May a car bomb was discovered outside the Italian embassy whilst in 2012, an American diplomat was killed in Benghazi. 

The Prime Minister's abduction, and continued targeting of international ambassadors, highlights the inherent lack of stability throughout the country as the week's events serve as worrying reminders of how far the country has to go before peace can be restored to the country. However, given time, Zeidan may just be the right man for the job.  

Lora

P.S. Feel free to follow me on Twitter @LoradeeC or add me on Google+

Dozens Die in Nairobi Terrorist Attack

Almost seventy people have died and a further two hundred injured during an attack on a Nairobi shopping mall on Saturday. Kenyan soldiers have since been deployed to the mall as an estimated 39 civilians are currently being held hostage by Somali militants.

An affluent shopping mall, the Westgate centre has over 80 shops including Barclays and Samsung, and had been hosting a 'children's day' when Somali militants launched the attack. Approximately 1,000 people managed to escape as the militants entered the building, and have given the media chilling details of what they witnessed. As the militants entered the building around midday, witnesses reported hearing explosions

Inside the Westgate shopping mall

outside the building quickly followed by gunfire. One witness told reporters "I saw a lot of children and elderly people being shot dead... I don't understand why you would shoot a five year old" Whilst many ran through the mall trying to escape the chaos, others managed to save themselves by playing dead. One of the most shocking details to emerge is that women were involved in the slaughter of innocent children as well as men.

The group claiming responsibility for the worst attack on Kenyan soil in over a decade is the al-Qaeda Somalian cell, al-Shabaab. Translated, the organisation's name means 'The Youth' or 'The Boys' is a splinter group formed in 2006 from the Islamic Courts Union (ICU), a collection of Sharia law courts that merged together to form an opposition to the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia. The ICU broke up in 2006 after losing territory and power to the TFG, however some hardline groups splintered off and one such group became al-Shabaab. The militant group has been rife with internal problems including internal coups and defections and a result of their lack of direction meant that Somali troops, along with the UN approved peace keeping mission the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM), were able to reclaim land from the insurgents.This weekend's attack has apparently been in retaliation to the Kenyan military's support of the Somalian army as the group wrote on social networking site, Twitter, "The attacks are just retribution for the lives of innocent Muslims shelled by Kenyan jets" another post called the attacks retaliation against the "Kenyan invaders." However this seems the flimsy excuse of a group desperately trying to regain status and power after losing a lot of influence and supporters in a short space of time.

Map of East Africa showing Somalian/Kenyan border

The attack on the capital has hit the Kenyan president on a very personal level as his nephew and nephew's fiancée are reported to have been killed in the attack and in a press conference, he told the world's media "They shall not get away with their despicable and beastly acts. We will punish the masterminds swiftly and indeed very painfully." Having been personally aggrieved at the insurgent's hands, it's safe to say the President will not stop until the 15-20 or so militants holding innocent civilians hostage tonight, are brought to trial and punished accordingly.

 Apart from an attack on a personal level for himself, the victims and victim's families, the President also needs to show a hardline stance against any al-Qaeda affiliates. Kenya has the strongest economy in Eastern Africa with tourism accounting for the majority of it's GDP, by showing strength and defiance against the extremists, Kenya will ensure their economy maintains its strength. Showing strength and resilience against terrorism will be the greatest insult to the insurgents and the greatest way to honour the victims of Westgate.

Lora

As always, if you enjoy my blog, feel free to ass me on Google+ and Twitter @LoradeeC

Rebel Attack Causing Chaos in the Philippines

Hi guys! Sorry for going dark on you for the last week, I've just started a new job and wow is it busy! But things have settled down a bit again so I'm back!

In recent years, The Philippines has become a major economic success story and is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia. However, in the last 11 days, any economic prowess has been eclipsed as clashes between Philippine forces and Muslim rebels in Zamboanga have left over 100 dead and forced tens of thousands from their homes.

Zamboanga is a large city on the predominantly Muslim Mindanao island, which is the birth place of rebel group the Moro Nationalist Liberation Front (MNLF). Formed in the 1960s, the MNLF is a separatist group who are pushing the government to make the island an independent Muslim state, thus ending Manilia rule. 

200 MNLF rebels sailed into Zamboanga City
bay ten days ago

On September 9th, following peace talks between the government and the MNLF, a faction of the group launched a vicious attack on Zamboanga (ironically known as 'The City of Flowers'). The ransacking of this once vibrant city, as well as the destruction of civilian's homes, has left over 100,000 people displaced since the clashes began, with approximately half seeking shelter in a sports stadium. However, the government have since pledged to rebuild the city, allocating £.8 billion Pesos (around £56 million GBP) to reconstruction of the city. The Philippine President, Benigno Aquino, remains optimistic about the prospect of a positive outcome for the government, and today has been telling Reuters "I don't expect this to take too long" a sentiment which rings true if army reports are correct and there are only around 70 rebels still fighting in the city with the rest either killed or arrested. 

Perhaps the worst aspect of the fighting is the fact that it is not _only_ rebels or _only_ soldiers who are inflicting damage, instead both sides have shown a dangerously careless attitude to civilian lives. After holding over twenty Christians hostage, the MLNF used their captives as human shields against the Philippine army who, bewilderingly, continued to fire; wounding innocent civilians in the process. 

Worryingly, it appears that, to the army and rebels, the ends can justify the means, regardless of how dangerous those means are... 

Lora.

As always, feel free to add me on Google+ and Twitter @LoradeeC

Four Men Convicted of the Rape and Murder of Indian Student

In December last year, the world watched horrified as a 23 year old student clung to life in a Singapore hospital following a brutal gang rape in the Indian capital, Delhi. Two weeks after the attack, the young woman died of injuries inflicted by her attackers. Today, four of her attackers have been convicted of her rape and murder.

The young woman had been studying physio at university, and last year, on December 16, she and a male friend boarded what they assumed was a regular bus, only the bus was not actually in service. The six men accused of the brutal attack had been driving the vehicle and tricked the pair into boarding the bus where they brutally beat the male companion with an iron bar, incapacitating him whilst the girl was savagely raped. When they had finished with the pair, the attackers discarded them on a roadside, leaving them both for dead.

Following the attack, an unprecedented wave of protests throughout the country brought the world's attention to India's archaic attitude towards women. However, this year, politicians have attempted to clamp down on attacks on women, and in March a law was passed that meant rape could be punishable by death. 

 As one of the attackers was a minor at the time of the attack, he was spared the death penalty and instead sentenced to the maximum sentence for a juvenile; 3 years in a reform centre. The supposed 'head' of the gang, and instigator of the attack, Ram Singh, was found hanged in his prison cell in February in what is widely believed to be a suicide, a claim that his family have disputed. The remainder of the attackers have been convicted and Mukesh Singh, Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur and Pawan Gupta now await their sentence, expected to be delivered on Wednesday. 

Upon hearing the accused had been convicted, chants of "Hang them! Hang them!" came from demonstrators outside the court as the parents of the deceased girl told reporters they are "Happy with the conviction. Now we expect the judge to sentence them all to death." The male victim in the attack also voiced his desired outcome of the conviction stating "They wanted us to die. Now, I want them to die and she also wanted them to die." With a harsh punishment for rape now enforced and the high profile nature of this case, it is highly likely these men will face the death penalty. 

This year, a number of high profile gang rapes have caught worldwide attention including the attack on a Swiss tourist and her husband as well as an attack last month on a 22 year old female photojournalist. However, it is not only India in which these brutal attacks are prevalent. On Tuesday, the UN released the results of a study of 10,000 men in Bangladesh, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, China, Cambodia and Indonesia and the results are startling. More than 70% admitted to forcing themselves upon a woman because of a sense of 'sexual entitlement' with 60% also admitting they did it for 'fun'. Whilst a number admitted to forcing themselves (the word rape was never used) onto strangers, a huge number said they had used excessive force on their partner.

It is apparent that there is a massively distorted view of women prevalent throughout Asia. Whilst India have imposed harsh new sentences for convicted rapists, there is still a tiny minority of men actually prosecuted for their actions. There is a stigma attached to the woman for being raped and, more often than not, the men are not prosecuted for their attacks. The only way this can change is if social attitudes towards women change across Asia, with women treated with the same level of respect as men. It may be a slow process but the unprecedented outrage at the death of the student last year has shown the tide is beginning to change in India as more people wake up to their social conscience. Let's just hope this continues.

Lora.

If you enjoy my blog, please feel free to follow me on Twitter @LoradeeC or feel free to add me on Google+.

Libya Lose Billions in Recent Oil Strikes

Two years ago, In the midst of the Arab Spring, the Libyan people united to remove their leader, Colonel Gadaffi, from power after ruling the African country for more than 40 years. The controversial leader was ousted amidst accusations that he was an authoritarian dictator who abused the rights of his people. Now, the new government is facing it's biggest challenge yet.

Last year, Ali Zeidan, previously a human rights lawyer, was elected by the Libyan Congress to the position of Prime Minister. Following the overwhelming response to welcome democracy as well as the Gadaffi manhunt, it is somewhat surprising that the country is struggling to find it's feet, as chaos looms ominously overhead. 

With over a million barrels produced per day, oil is Libya's greatest export particularly as the highly valued natural resource is of an unusually high quality. Oil production in Libya is the highest in the whole of Africa and the fifth largest in the entire world. Therefore, the value and importance of this commodity is quite apparent, particularly in relation to the country's economy. However, output in the country has fallen to just 10% as workers, along with armed militia, have gone on strike leaving the government with just two working oil ports, forcing the country to import oil to keep electrical power stations open. 

There appears to be a number of reasons for the strikes, however, the primary causes seem to revolve around dissatisfaction with the government's distribution of wealth, with other workers demanding higher pay and new management. The pay and management seem reasonable enough requests to discuss, perhaps the formation of a trade union could prevent future

ongoing strikes that threaten the very peace of the country. 

In 2007, British oil giant BP re-entered the country, however since the civil disruption following the Arab Spring, plans to drill for oil off the Libyan coast have repeatedly been put on hold. With lost revenue from the strikes estimated in the billions, and BP the last oil giant left in the country following Shell's exit last year, it's unsurprising that the worried government have threatened military action against the protesters. Denouncing them for "a national crime that is tantamount to treason, because you are cutting the income to the Libyans." The Prime Minister continued "The government has been patient... To preserve national unity we saw fit to use all peaceful means to resolve this issue but at some point we may  reach a point in which the state should exercise it's role seriously to stop this." 

The Government, it seems, has been backed into a corner, as experts and protesters alike warn that a military intervention could break down the already tentative peace in the country sending Libya spiralling into a fractious state with people fighting over oil. Indeed, one militia leader said an act of aggression like that detailed by the Prime Minister would be a "declaration of war", something which neither the government nor the people want.

It is a tricky situation for Libya, the government obviously need to reopen the oil ports so they can produce at maximum capacity and get money into the country once again, however they need to react to the people's protest in a reasonable manner. Ignoring the demands of the people entirely, instead of negotiating, is a dangerous game and a mistake that too many leaders in the Middle East have made in the last few years. This is a major test for the new government and how they react will be important not just for Libya but for all other countries involved in the Arab Spring. Reacting with care will mean the government will not just save Libya from civil war, but also create faith in their new democracy.

Lora.

Remember, if you like my blog, feel free to add me Google+ and Twitter @LoradeeC. 

Protesters Sentenced to Life Imprisonment as the Egyptian Military Restricts Media.

As the ousted Egyptian President, Mohammed Morsi, awaits trial, eleven of his supporters have today been sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of attacking the army as a further 45 receive five to fifteen year prison sentences.

Whilst it remains unclear if the pro-Morsi supporters are affiliated to the, now controversial, Muslim Brotherhood, the men were convicted for attacking churches, soldiers and military vehicles in last month's protests. Morsi himself awaits sentencing  for 'inciting deadly violence' in regards to the deaths of protesters outside the Presidential palace in December 2012 as well as charges relating to a 2011 prison riot. Since Morsi was ousted, dozens of senior Muslim Brotherhood officials have been arrested, including most of the organisation's top officials. Fourteen Brotherhood members are currently awaiting trial on the same charge as their ex-President.

In the two months since the first democratically elected President was removed from office, the country has been thrown into turmoil as the pro and anti-Morsi supporters have clashed on the streets of Egypt. However, worse than this civil unrest, is the harsh impact the military has had on the country. Whilst there is no official report on how many have died in the last two months, it is safe to assume the death toll has reached the thousands, as pro-Morsi supporters have been subjected to fierce attacks from the military. Last month, hundreds died in peaceful protests with hundreds more arrested.

Whilst protests continue in support of Morsi, they are undoubtedly dwindling as the people are gripped by terror inflicted by the military. Last week saw the first major protest in a fortnight, following the murder of hundreds of protests at a similar demonstration, and, as the defiant protesters took to the streets in opposition of the new regime, the military used tear gas and gun fire against the protesters. It is little wonder the numbers of protesters are rapidly dwindling; if they have not been killed or arrested, they are understandably petrified of what will happen if they do.

Worringly, in the military's boldest, and most ominous move, four television stations, including Al Jazeera affiliate Mubasher Misr, have been shut amid accusations of Pro-Morsi sympathies. The military removed Morsi from office in 'public interest' and vehemently defended their actions as democratic, however, free speech and freedom of the press are core values of democracy. If the military truly believe their actions to be democratic, why silence opposition, be that from the street merchant to the politician to the journalist?

As well as the suspension of opposition news agencies and fierce attacks on protesters, the national rail service has been closed for 17 days. Rail services were due to resume today however they have postponed; The country is not only figuratively but also literally at a standstill.

Whilst the world is distracted by other atrocities in the world, we should not forget the utter turmoil in Egypt. The country which once revelled in democracy following the Arab Spring, is rapidly becoming the military state it once was. With the interim President being suspiciously silent and the military ominously loud, there is a very real danger that the people of this interesting and wonderful country could, once again, be facing a harsh authoritarian leadership.

Lora.

P.S. As always, if you like my blog feel free to add me on Google+ and Twitter @LoradeeC.

Boko Haram continue their reign of terror in Nigeria

Dozens are mourning in Northern Nigeria today as an ambush by the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) against Islamist extremists, the Boko Haram, went wrong, leaving 24 civilians dead and a further 36 remain missing.

In retaliation to the ambush, Boko Haram then attacked the nearby towns of Damboa and Nganza, slaughtering an estimated 20 civilians which brings the total number of fatalities in the region, since 2009, to over 1500.

Map of Nigeria; Maiduguri top right

The JTF are a government sanctioned civilian vigilante group and was founded in Boko Haram's birthplace, Maiduguri. Surprisingly, it is comprised of men and women and, despite the inherent dangers, the organisation is completely voluntary. These ordinary members of the community sign up in defiance of the oppression and violence inflicted on their towns by the terrorist extremists, the Boko Haram.

So who exactly are Boko Haram?

Formed in 2001 in the Nigerian city Maiduguri (popularly known as the 'Home of Peace'), the extremist group's primary ethos is to enforce Sharia law and to ban what they deem as Westernisation. Indeed, whilst the group is officially called the Congregation and People of Tradition for Proselytism and Jihad, they have adopted the snappier name 'Boko Haram' which translates from Hausa as 'Western eduction is sinful'.

Despite escalating tensions and smaller scale attacks, it was another eight years before Boko Haram really demonstrated their extreme power and blood thirst. In July 2009, the extremist group were stopped by security officials on their way to bury a fellow member. Apparently the officials stopped the procession to request that those riding motorcycles wear helmets and tensions quickly escalated, resulting in deaths on both sides. Unfortunately this was the spark to the tinderbox and began the 2009 Boko Haram Uprising which saw violence across the North-eastern states of Nigeria with over 1,000 people killed, 700 of which in Maiduguri alone.

The terrorists have been ruthless in their attacks, launching bloody and brutal assaults on mosques and especially schools in order to spread their message. In July, one such attack sent ripples across the world as news broke of the brutal murders of 46 students during an attack at a boarding school. The children died after being shot or burned alive as they slept.

Following the attack a video was released showing a Boko Haram soldier spitting "Teachers who teach western education? We will kill them! We will kill them all!" The militant continues they will continue to target schools 'until our last breath'. However, he then goes on to say "Our religion does not permit us to touch small children and women." If this was the case, and Boko Haram claimed responsibility, how exactly did these children die?

Boko Haram militia

The organisation is indiscriminate in whom they kill, and an attack in Konduga in early August this year, saw 44 fellow Muslims slaughtered whilst they were praying in their local mosque. The Boko Haram have been critical of Muslims who they call 'soft', complaining they should be more strict with their religion. The town in which they attacked was a simple town filled with farmers.

Many believe the Nigerian government should be pushing for peace talks with the brutal militia as a high proportion of Boko Haram members are the disaffected youth, young men angry with high levels of unemployment and abject poverty. Whilst it may be increasingly difficult to get to the root of the youth's issues with the government, opening up talks will help to clarify what it is that is attracting them to the organisation in the first place. Through tackling these issues it could help stop the expansion of the terrorist group, and perhaps even draw members of the group back into normal society. Either way, drastic action needs to be taken.

The main victims in this war are not the militia or soldiers, but the farmer left unable to work after being attacked at prayers, the mother left mourning the death of her child, the elderly couple left homeless, forced from their homes by the militia, the volunteer JTF shot whilst working on a checkpoint. As always, it is the innocent who continue to be the principal casualty of political war.

Lora.

As always, if you like my blog, feel free to follow me on Google+ and Twitter @LoradeeC

Not just planes that descend on the runway at Central African Republic Airport

Hundreds of passengers to the Central African Republic have been redirected to Douala, Cameroon, as an estimated 5,000 civilians swamped the country's largest airport, following a week of intensified violence by Seleka rebels, forcing them for their homes.

The rebel coalition group known as the 'Seleka' have been systemically causing chaos throughout the country following the March coup which saw former President Francois Bozize removed from power. The Seleka is primarily formed from left over members of the C.A.R. Bush War, which ended in a peace agreement in 2007 and finalised in August 2012.

Believing this agreement was not honoured by Bozize, the rebels began attacking the country in December 2012 and quickly took control of N'Dele, Sam Ouandja and Ouadda in the North. After failing to secure international assistance, Bozize managed to strike another deal with the rebels, promising a new coalition government formed of the opposition. However, this was short lived and within weeks, the new agreement broke down. 

Ex-President Francois Bozize

For the next three months, the government and Seleka clashed resulting in the deaths of hundreds and injuring many more. However, by March 2013, it was all over; Bozize's government was removed from power. As Bozize headed into exile in Benin via Cameroon, Seleka leader, Michel Djotodia, was sworn in as the fifth President of the Cental African Republic. 

Originally Djotodia had intended to call elections in 2016, however following a stern word from Chad (who told him they would not recognise him as the country's president), elections have been brought forward to late 2014, as well as the formation of an inclusive transitional government  prior to elections. 

Since March, the country has unsurprisingly devolved into chaos as Djotodia fails to take control or be an effective leader at all. The Seleka have been granted permission to raid houses in rural and city areas in order to find Bozizi loyalists and weapons caches. In reality, all they are doing is exerting power and instilling fear so that at election time next year, civilians will be sure to vote for Djotodia, or risk their lives.

Current President Michel Djotodia

In the capital, Bangui, and, in particular, the Boy-Rabe and Boeing neighbourhoods, the people are living in abject terror at the hands of these lawless thugs. So, earlier this week, thousands of people headed to the airport, hoping to escape the looting, violence and armed robberies taking place outside their front door. However, as well as security, the Bangui people were also determined to catch the world's attention, to present the actions of the Seleka and Djotodia  to the world so they can be held accountable for their actions. One citizen, Antoine Gazana told Reuters "Our presence here at the airport has one goal- to get the world's attention. Because we are fed up with these Seleka." 

U.N. officials have expressed concerns that the country may suffer total collapse whilst French President Francois Hollande has warned C.A.R. may go the way of Somalia if steps are not taken. My heart goes out to these people, descending en masse to try find some semblance of safety as well raising their plight to the world wide stage, it shows their desperation. 

With hundreds and injured dead and over 200,000 more displaced since the Seleka rebellion began, we can only hope that something happens, and soon, that will help restore some kind of order to this beautiful, culturally rich country.

Lora.

P.S. If you like my blog, feel free to follow me on Twitter @LoradeeC

Bloodshed and Bombs in Baghdad

Whilst the world turns it's gaze to the atrocities in Syria, Baghdad has been bracing itself against further sectarian attacks following the worst wave of bloodshed in nearly five years. In July alone, over 1000 Iraqis were killed, and, on Wednesday, a further 70 people were killed, with another 200 injured, as at least ten bombs exploded across the city. 

One of the worst hit neighbourhood was Kadhimyah in Northern Baghdad, home to a predominantly Shiite population, as two bombs exploded in a car park followed by a suicide bomber, reportedly resulting in  10 fatalities, whilst injuring almost 30 more. In the South-East of the city, Jisr-Diyala another two bombs exploded, killing 7 and injuring many more. Across the city many more bombs exploded and in predominantly Shiite areas which has led to speculation that the attacks were carried out by Sunni militia, or even by Iraqi al Qaeda, however, as yet, no group has claimed responsibility.

The Interior Ministry have opposed the figures being reported by the media and claim that only around 20 have been killed. With growing concerns the country could be hurtling back towards the brutal civil war which saw thousands killed and millions displaced between 2006-2007, it may be an attempt to minimise casualties to try to reduce the likelihood of retaliation attacks?

We have heard so much about Iraq over the last decade that in the West we are at risk of becoming desensitized to the Iraqi plight and we cannot allow ourselves to think of people's deaths as simply numbers. Instead think of them as your brother, friend, father or child, anything to humanise the statistics we see so often. 

As the last of the U.S. troops left Iraq about eighteen months ago, the country is still struggling to unite it's population. Whilst I do not think a Western military presence is necessary, I do think it is important that some kind of international body steps in simply as an arbitrator. Otherwise attempts to build and maintain a functioning society, with as little sectarian attacks as possible, will ultimately fail. Perhaps I am being naive, but look at Palestine-Israel, look at Egypt and Syria, see what a factious state accomplishes? Now look towards Northern Ireland, proof that even though it takes time, and flare ups still do occur, these are the minority and change can happen and tentative peace can prevail. 

We all have to believe in something, and I believe in that.

Lora.

P.S. Almost forgot to mention, if you like my blog, feel free to follow me on Twitter @LoraDeeC.

"I will strike the water of the Nile, and it will be changed into blood" Blood continues to flow through the streets of Egypt

Six weeks ago, we seen elation on the streets on Egypt as General Abdul Fatah al-Sisi told the world that Egypt's first democratically elected President Mohammed Morsi had been removed from office pending with Chief Justice Adly Manosour assuming his position pending new elections. Outside thousands of anti-Morsi Egyptians watched gleefully on, flashing laser beams in a scene that was more reminiscent of a club than, what many have called, a military coup .

Since then, the situation has rapidly declined with pro and anti-Morsi supporters clashing on the streets whilst the military step in to brutally suppress peace protests of supporters of the deposed ruler. In a little over a month, the streets of Egypt have been running red with the blood of hundreds of people killed in these riots. Three days ago 638 were killed when Rabaa al-Adawiya, one of the pro-Morsi protest camps, was cleared by the military, with reports of women, children and even babies counted among the dead.

The Muslim Brotherhood, of which Morsi is a member, called for a 'march of anger' on 16th August and their call was answered when hundreds of Pro-Morsi supporters turned out in Rameses Square, Cairo, as well as other protests throughout the country. Clashes have resulted in over 60 deaths in Cairo, Alexandria, Suez, Damietta and Fayoum. 

There has been international outcry at the heavy handedness of the military with a number of countries and international bodies voicing their growing concern of the situation. UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, has warned "military interference in the affairs of any state is of concern" and has urged "a speedy resumption of civilian rule." The EU have also spoken out against the military rule as Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy said in a recent statement "I strongly condemn all violent acts... I call on all sides to exercise maximum restraint." Ms Ashton also voiced her disappointment at being denied a meeting with Morsi in a recent trip to Cairo (where he is being held in custody on murder charges in a jailbreak in 2011). These thoughts have been echoed throughout the world as dozens of countries including Iran, Germany, France, Malaysia and Russia all voicing their concerns on the violence and military interference in the state. 

The only way this situation can be resolved is if the rulers calm the people instead of continuing to incite anger and hatred. The military have already stated they are prepared to continue using force which is obviously only going to fan the flames of social unrest, not alleviate them. One of the cornerstones of any democracy should be free speech and the right to protest. If the military are so keen on continuing a truly democratic state, should they not be respecting and adopting these simple maxims instead of slaughtering everyone with an opposing viewpoint?

Personally I believe Morsi should have been given more than a year to try and implement the changes the country wanted him to make, however that aside, the violence needs to stop. When babies are murdered and neighbour kills neighbour, how can that ever be the way in which to start a new and peaceful state?

Lora

As always, if you enjoy my blog, feel free to follow me on twitter @LoradeeC.

Tensions begin to surface as Palestine and Israel prepare for latest round of peace talks

Following on from the recent preliminary talks in Washington, the five year stalemate between Israel and Palestine is set to end this week as both countries prepare to meet in Jerusalem on Wednesday for the latest round of peace talks. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have a tough job on their hands and before peace talks have even begun, tensions are already rising in both countries. 

As Israel prepares to release over 100 Palestinian prisoners in phases over the coming months, including 26 long term prisoners later today, the U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry, who is acting mediator between the two countries, has urged restraint as 1,200 Jewish settlement homes are green lighted by the Israeli government. There has been an expectedly negative reaction to these developments from people in both countries and which could potentially see a rise in attacks between Palestinians and Israelis. 

A substantial number of Israelis are outraged at the imminent release of the political prisoners, seeing their freedom as an insult to their loved one's memory and angry their murderers are going unpunished. In a supreme court hearing yesterday, victim's families clutched pictures of their dearly departed whilst asking judges why the 'butchers' were soon to be released. One Israeli man told the press "It's painful to pay such a heavy price just as a concession for talks." This man lost his father in a brutal attack, so his pain is understandable. However, that said, in times of war, both sides must be prepared to make concessions if they ever hope to achieve a peaceful resolution.

On the other hand, there has been a lot of tension stemming from Israel approving new homes to be built on seized land, a move which many have seen as an attempt to 'sabotage' the peace talks. As well as discontent amongst the government and the general public, a number of high profile Palestinians have condemned the approval of new settlement homes. Winner of the Sydney Peace Prize and PLO Executive Committee member, Hanan Ashrawi, has criticised the move calling it an 'extremely dangerous' policy. Whilst writer Hani Habib denounced the entire peace talks writing "The Palestinians need to quit the talks because all they (Israel) gets is more building in the settlement." Over 500,000 Israelis live in the Palestinian West Bank and despite international condemnation, the number continues to grow. Despite the fact that the UN have repeatedly condemned the occupation of Palestinian lands, citing a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention, the Israeli government refute these claims, calling them 'war-won' lands from the Six-Day war of 1967. To date, no country recognises the annexed lands as Israeli.

Previously President Abbas rejected any peace talks until a freeze was placed on the building of new homes in settlement areas, however Netanyanhu wholeheartedly rejected this, however talks have resumed. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude the two leaders came to compromise in the pre-peace talks in Washington as Abbas allows the building to continue, whilst Netanyanhu releases Palestinian prisoners. With violent attacks between the two factions rising dramatically, during, and for a time after, any previous peace talks, we have to hope that this time an agreement is reached,  and with as little as possible blood shed.

Lora

P.S. As usual, follow me on Twitter if you enjoyed my blog! @Loradeec

Refugee Restrictions Shaming Switzerland

Famous for fondue, skiing and for maintaining a position of neutrality, Switzerland is under a double spotlight this week, and what's been shown up, well it's not pretty.

A member of the United Nations, the country plays host to a large number of international institutions including the World Trade Organisation, the Red Cross, and World Health Organisation. The country which is the second biggest centre for the UN after America, has one of the highest refugee intakes in Europe with an estimated 48,000 refugees seeking asylum. However, recent restrictions and a celebrity's embarrassing encounter has raised questions of just how accepting this country actually is.

Last month, Oprah Winfrey, one of the the richest women in America, was allegedly snubbed in an exclusive shop in Switzerland's largest city, Zurich. When the TV personality requested to see a handbag costing in excess of £20,000, the shop assistant supposedly declined her request as it was 'too expensive' for her. The owner later claimed it was simply a 'misunderstanding' whilst the Swiss tourist office has apologised to Ms Winfrey with a spokesperson announcing in a statement today 'We are very sorry for what happened to her'. 

It may be the talk show host was the unfortunate victim of an anomaly; a racist shop assistant that in no way represents the majority of the Swiss public. The concern is, what if instead of being a anomaly, the assistant is actually an accurate representative of an inherent racism deeply rooted in the European country? The recent refugee restrictions mean we could potentially be looking at an ugly answer.

The municipality of Bremgarten in Northern Switzerland has been granted permission by the Swiss government to limit the movements of refugees within the area. 32 'exclusion zones' have been created where asylum seekers do not have permission to enter including day care centres, nursing homes, church yards and community halls. With these restrictions, I'm not entirely sure how a refugee is to set up a new life... what is a single working parent going to do if they cannot go to a child care centre? Where is a devout Christian going to go to worship?

Raymond Tellenbach , the mayor of Bremgarten, has defended the restrictions in his town stating "For security reasons, we decided to make these areas inaccessible to order to avoid potential conflict and primarily to prevent the consumption of drugs... We are not inhuman." Okay, not inhuman, just very prejudiced. The head of the Migration Ministry, Mario Gattiker, announced his approval of the move, citing public safety as his concern. Gattiker told the Swiss press the restrictions have been enforced in order to 'help avoid friction and resentment'. If anything, these bans will incite friction not avoid it. 

Bremgarten is not the vanguard of exclusion zones, other towns throughout the country, notably in Lucerne, have already enforced a variety of bans ranging from forests to nursing homes. People who have come to the country to try and make a better life for themselves and their children will not face further adversity in their supposed sanctuary. The riots in Sweden earlier this year showed us the dangers of sub communities forming in countries where refugees are not fully integrated into their new society, surely Switzerland risk a similar situation occurring if they ban the refugees instead of incorporating them into Swiss communities?

I understand the public may be uneasy at the recent spike in asylum requests, but if that is the case, why not limit the number of refugees rather than granting them asylum than imposing restrictions and laws onto them? Imposing these bans is quite frankly degrading and humiliating, granting asylum is not enough if you are going  to continue to persecute them for simply existing and keep them segregated from the rest of the population. I simply cannot comprehend why a country who hosts a multitude of UN organisations simultaneously restricts human rights. Maybe I am naive, perhaps I am missing something here, if I am, please feel free to comment below, alternative opinions on this matter will be greatly welcomed!

Lora

If you like my blog, feel free to follow me on twitter @LoraDeeC. 

Prawer Plan sparks Protest amongst the Bedouins in Israel

As peace talks begin afresh with Palestine, Israel are facing new opposition, this time from the Bedouins. As the Israeli state prepare to 'relocate' tens of thousands of people from their ancestral homes to 'modernised' areas of 'better infrastructure', protests have been breaking out across the country as the Bedouins challenge the controversial 'Prawer Plan'. 

The Bedouins are an Arab minority who have been living in the Negev area and throughout the North, for thousands of years, however, following the Israeli Declaration of Independence in 1948 it has been part of Israel. Despite the fact that the Bedouin people have been living in the area for an impossibly long time, in old villages they love and do not want to leave, Israel has sparked worldwide controversy by declaring the villages as 'unrecognised' and 'trespassers on state land'. 

Throughout the country, people have been protesting against the 'Prawer Plan', the name given to the 5 year relocation initiative. Recently, in the town of Wadi Ara people from across the country descending on a public park protesting against the proposed law and is reported to have included a number of Palestinians. One protester, Fatima Birro, told a reporter "the Prawer law is denying our right to be in our homes. We are being treated like second-class – no, fifth-class – people in our own land.'"

Like many throughout the country, Birro believes the action to be one of oppression, a bid to rid Israel, including Palestinian territories, of the Arabic people as she continues to tell the reporter 'The law to remove the Bedouin, who have been there for thousands of years, is all part of the same policy of ethnically cleansing this land of the Arabs. It’s the same with the way the Palestinians are treated in the West Bank... Where are we supposed to go?"

The law to enforce the controversial law has passed through one of three stages of Israeli Parliament back in January and went largely unnoticed by the average joe of the international community. However, Navi Pillay, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights has noticed it, and has in fact condemned the law who has said it "legitimize(s) forcible displacement and dispossession" which the Israeli foreign minister called a 'display of ignorance.' Because a U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights would naturally be in the habit of making general statements without properly checking all the facts first...

The Bedouins are originally a nomadic group and are happy living in small communities; favouring a traditional lifestyle which still incorporates modernity. For these people, to be forced from the land of their ancestors, leaving behind the freedom and space of the Negev desert, and into purpose built towns where people from all different communities live on top of each other, is never going to be productive and could easily spark a conflict similar to that of Palestine. 

Whilst war between East and West continues to ravage neighbouring countries, we cannot be allowed, nor indeed allow ourselves, to forget the dispossessed; the Palestinians, and soon the Bedouin people too.  

Lora

Please note, quotes from Fatima Birro were obtained from http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/this-is-our-land-protests-at-plan-to-remove-bedouins-from-ancestral-villages-8748966.html a highly recommended read from Alistair Dawber, a correspondent to my favourite newspaper The Independent

P.S. If you like my blog, feel free to follow me on twitter @LoradeeC

American citizens urged to leave Yemen as terror threat level increase

Following on from pulling diplomatic staff from Yemen, along with a number of Middle East and African countries last week, the U.S. have now urged all American citizens to leave the Arab country immediately with the expectation of an imminent attack. The drastic measure has been replicated by the British government who have also recalled embassy staff, with both countries stating the move has been 'out of an abundance of caution'. 

A reported 4 U.S. drone strikes have occurred in the last ten days, resulting in the deaths of 4 al Qaeda militants, as well as an attack on a mosque in the capital, Sanaa, which seen a bomb thrown into the mosque killing one and injuring a further 12. Following on from this, a secret message was intercepted from high level al Qaeda operative, Ayman al-Zawahiri and Nasser al-Wuhayshi, the head of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula. In the message, al-Zawahiri tells al-Wujayshi to 'do something' about the attacks. As Ramadan ends this week, and with tensions running high, now would be a significant time to launch an attack on the West. 

After an attack on the US embassy in Benghazi, Libya,last year which killed four Americans, including the American ambassador it is unsurprising that the country is taking such drastic steps to ensure the safety of it's citizens. However, what is surprising is that if the US intercepted these messages, why would they make such a public statement telling the world they were withdrawing embassy staff instead of discreetly pulling them out. It could be a staged pre-emptive move in order to stop any plans that may be afoot following on from the drone attacks, which, if it is the case, could be a fairly antagonistic move. However, I may be too cynical and the US and British governments are simply acting out of genuine concern for their people with no ulterior motive (which would be a first). Regardless of their motives, I think it's fairly safe to say that any attacks al Qaeda may have planned for the Western diplomats in Yemen, will be unlikely to come to fruition. However, it may be worth while for the U.S. and U.K embassies to put other diplomats in the neighbouring area of high alert, if al Qaeda want retaliation, I am sure they will find a way to get it.

Lora  

Iranian Inauguration Sparks Hope

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has ignited hope in his people after declaring in his inauguration speech, that as well as tackling the failing economy, the government will be less involved in the daily lives of the people and granting more rights to women. Replacing President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in June after a landslide victory, the cleric's moderate stance has been welcomed by the Iranian people and Western political powers alike. 

 Rouhani's inauguration is the first swearing in that foreign dignitaries were invited to attend since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. That Western diplomats were even invited to attend the event shows the previously controversial Middle Eastern country is taking positive steps in foreign relations.

Later in his speech, Rouhani directly addressed Western nations, as the cleric advised “If you want an adequate response, you shouldn't speak the language of sanctions, you should speak the language of respect". A reference to the sanctions imposed on Iran over the development their nuclear weapons programme. This is a bit harsh perhaps, considering his more radical predecessor was intent on riling the Western powers as much as possible. However, in light of the rest of his speech as well as having foreign dignitaries present, these potentially inflammatory words appear to be Rouhani is simply displaying a resolute stance; that whilst Iran is keen to improve relations, it will not be a push over to the Western world.

If the new president sticks to his word, delivering change across the social and political spectrum as well as reaching an agreement on Iran's controversial nuclear programme, there is no reason why a mutually beneficial relationship with the West cannot be reached. Considering the ongoing problems in Syria and the ever escalating tension in Egypt, this olive branch is likely to be accepted with gusto by those hoping for an ease in tensions with the Middle East. Most importantly, we have to hope these promises of change are fulfilled, or at least put into action, and not simply lip service to the West.

With vast unemployment, a struggling economy, broken  international relations and an archaic attitude towards women to change, it's fair to say Rouhani has his work cut out for him. Hopefully it won't be a case of promising too much and delivering little (like Obama) and this will be the dawn of a new age in Iran.

Lora

Arrivederci Berlusconi

You got to hand it to him, Silvio Berlusconi certainly lives up to the hot blooded Italian stereotype. The 76 year old launched an angry tirade against the judges who upheld his 4 year prison sentence for tax fraud, which, given his age, he will most likely carry out under house arrest, or even community service. It is a fairly cushy sentence.

However, in a 9 minute televised statement the former Italian Prime Minister who served as PM three times in nearly 20 years, said of the conviction; '(it is) an incredible series of accusations and trials that had nothing to do with reality'.

The Italian judiciary system have been chasing the wily Senator for most of the last two decades for a range of offences including false accounting and have sex with an under age prostitute (a conviction for which he was recently sentenced to 7 years jail time. Unsurprisingly, he has also appealed against this conviction). With a string of tabloid tales of his 'bunga bunga' sex parties, the successful business man and media tycoon has perhaps developed a skewered sense of reality over time, believing himself to be elevated far beyond the reach of the law. 

 Berlusconi then attempts to tug at the heart strings of the Italian people emotionally stating that ' In exchange for the commitments I have made over almost 20 years in favour of my country and coming almost at the end of my public life, I have been rewarded with accusations and a verdict that is founded on absolutely nothing, that takes away my personal freedom and my political rights.' Italy is only just recovering from the mess Berlusconi left behind in 2011, after a terrible handling of the Eurozone Crisis. So, I'm not sure quite how much of this statement will ring true to the people of the Italian nation, to many his empty words will ring false.

Despite this, the PM is still able to hold his position as Senator as a further judiciary review takes place into his ban from holding public office. The initial sentence barring him from holding office for 5 years is now likely to be reduced to just 3 years, and allows the shamed politician to maintain his position until a judgement is reached. So although he may not have won everything he wanted, he has still managed to escape charges where perhaps a lesser known politician may not have been so fortunate.

It is important in any government, that even those at the highest echelons, are held accountable to the law of the land. Every man and woman should be held accountable for their actions, their career should not allow exemption from any criminal activities, however it is naive to believe that those at the highest levels of power do not abuse this from time to time. That said, it is encouraging to see a country successfully convicting a criminal that has held such a position of power. It gives me a bit of faith in democracy.

Lora.

Follow me on Twitter @LoradeeC.

Snowed In No Longer; NSA Whistleblower Granted Asylum

Joy unabounded! Russia has unsurprisingly defied American pressure and granted Edward Snowden a year long temporary asylum visa on the proviso that he does not release information which would further antagonise the U.S. 

Despite assurances that, like Bradley Manning, Snowden would not face the death penalty if he was returned to America, Russia still refused to hand the former NSA worker over. More than that, the casual manner in which Russian President Vladamir Putin's foreign policy advisor has said of the situation cunningly undermines the American's reaction to the whistleblower, making them seem as though they are fussing over a storm in a tea cup. Speaking to the world's press, the foreign advisor, Yury Ushakov, called the situation 'rather insignifcant... We know what sort of noise surrounds this (situation) in America". Nicely played Russia.

It's likely that the former Intelligence Analyst will apply for asylum in Nicaragua or Bolivia, or, as is more likely, Venezuela. In early July, the three Latin American countries told the world's media they would consider an asylum request from the whistleblower, making it quite clear they would be happy to take him under their protection. Now that Snowden has freedom of movement within Russia, he will be able to apply for asylum at the embassy of one of these brave countries.  

It is with some amusement that the ever vilified Russia has become the champion for freedom in this situation whilst 'advocate for peace and justice' America, are the hounding dogs. There will be more to this at higher levels I suspect, and we mere mortals cannot know what is happening behind the scenes, however, in this instance I'm just happy the best possible outcome has happened and that today Edward Snowden walks as a free man.

As of yet there has been no response from America in regards to Snowden's change of status however I am confident they will be 'disappointed'. What will happen from here? What will be the whistleblower's future? Who knows really. As ever, we will have to wait and see...

Lora

P.S. If you like my blog, follow me on twitter @LoraDeeC.

Man(ning) of the Hour

Firstly let me apologise for my radio silence as of late. I've just moved to London from Somerset, without a job, and moved in with my best friend and her fiancée. So my life has been pretty crazy as of late and I'm sorry to say blogging has taken a bit of a back seat! I'm a bit more settled so I have returned to the blogosphere with gusto! 

Today's topic is Bradley Manning. Considering my blatant support of Edward Snowden and Julian Assange,  it is hardly surprising for you, dear reader, to know that I am quite a fan of the 25 year old military leaker. With Manning conviction this week, I thought it was high time that I dedicated a few words to the man who is, quite frankly, a hero.

After joining the army 2007, Manning was deployed to Iraq where he unhappily spent two years suffering discrimination and bullying at the hands of his fellow soldiers, primarily on account of his homosexuality. Having strong political opinions throughout his life and being an incredibly bright individual, Manning was clearly unsuited to the life of a solider. In 2010, Private Manning downloaded confidential reports and diplomatic cables before passing them on to whistle-blower website, Wikileaks. 

In January 2010 Wikileaks announced they had received an encrypted video showing attacks by American soldiers on unarmed civilians in Baghdad. The 'Collateral Murder' video is a harrowing watch, we see civilians trying to run for cover, attempting to escape from a rain of bullets from above. All collateral damage in the farce known as The War on Terror.

Private Manning's show trial concluded this week and his twenty-two convictions include theft, fraud and espionage. Thankfully, Manning was acquitted of the charge of 'Aiding the enemy', which carries the death sentence. Apart from the fact that the ex-soldier's life will now be spared, it also means that other like-minded whistleblowers will be assured that their life would be spared if they too came forward, although Manning's convictions could carry a sentence of up to 136 years, which could still be a bit of a deterrent...

Ironically, Manning's leaks helped spark the Arab Spring, a series of revolutions across the middle east, widely supported by the Western world, including, America. Whilst some see the whistle-blower as a spy and deserving of his conviction, many believe he is a champion of peace who's conviction is an abomination. Including, one of my person heroes, Julian Assange, who has called his conviction 'a dangerous precedent' that 'represented a dangerous level of national security extremism'.

David Coombs, Manning's defence lawyer, has already spoken to the world's media in response to the conviction (in regards to the quashed aiding the enemy charge) 'he may have won the battle but now we need to go win the war'.  With prolific human rights charity Amnesty International as well as the hundreds of thousands worldwide who have made countless demonstrations in his support, we can only hope that Manning's sentencing is far less extreme than the American Government want to enforce. 

As ever, we can only wait in hope.

Lora.