^^Adiga intey wax kaa marayaan horta? Hadalka ma laba shub buu kuugu dhacaa aan ku weydiiyee? It is not the 'man' that is wanted but what the resources the man can offer. Simple and clear. Even if indhacade wasn't the lame excuse, I doubt many of you who now pose 'criticism' would have supported the courts anyway. Khayaali kuye lol. Khayaaliyey xaal qaado! Fahiye, Do you happen to know the tribal affiliations of all those named? If so, knowing all their clans and tolnimo surely is a unique talent found in few dedicated individuals. To be frank with you, I haven't got the faintest idea if the names are tol or cadow; but one thing I know for sure, they are men and women who put down their names on paper for the liberation of Somalia. For me, that is noble enough. I have no further personal reason to dig deeper to find grime on them.

Lol. Waad riyooneysaan dhamaantiin. That is what you are all doing. You want to see liberation of Somalia? What kind do you like the Courts to offer to the Somali people? A verbally-charged liberation? Or a militarily-driven liberation? Get real people, as Bilaal suggested. If you expected a verbal liberation then maybe Indha-Cade can be excluded from the struggle. But if not, I assure you, he is indispensible in the struggle - whatever his previous records show. Records and rumour which I am sure those in Asmara are fully aware off. But still, they had to make the difficult decision of including him in the process- that decision should make a clear signal to you guys.

Barely a decade old child bride for village gambling debts? Inaa fajacnaa wa argagaxnaa! :mad: F***ing hell, odeyaasha waa weyn ma damiirkiibaa dooni laga saarey? Mararka qaarkood there are vile things that one cannot argue against. No matter how permitted such marriages are under our religion, to be quest honest, there is something beastly about taking 11 - 15 year old girls as brides..beastly, I cry! PS: I would say from 17 years, it is a game for those who want young brides. But a woman is most beautiful, as I see it, when she hits 26 till 33 years. Simply well-rounded and less jumpy .

Second Chapter: Start... Unknown to both Liban and Nurraddin, group of five former university friends were meeting up for their usual Saturday night get together. Every weekend, they meet in their favourite in Edgware Road – Western London. All of them having graduated with degrees in wide-ranging fields such as International Relations, Diplomacy and Development Studies, and currently working in jobs not affiliated to their fields of specialty, they often meet to exchange news of opportunities. In addition to that, their meeting up allowed them to hold discussions on various political matters, and whichever other subject that appeals to their curiosity. Among the group, is a recent Somali diplomacy graduate, Dahir, with the aspiration of working as a diplomat some day when a state in re-instated in his native country, Somalia. Of the other four, Kevin, Carsten and Aslam, they were not Somali or even African. Kevin was a middle-class English man in his early twenties; Carsten was a German was almost the same age as Kevin, who came to London to study but never went back; Aslam, on the other hand, was a 27 year old British-born Pakistani whose members of his family live in Pakistan; and John was a 30 year old American who has come to do his doctorate in a London university and works part-time as a Socialist Students official within the Socialist party. The common denominator that has brought these men together was their active participation in the organization of leftist political campaigns. Campaigns ,which organized rallies and protests against, what they saw as being, the discontents of Capitalist global exploitation- exacerbated by the deployment of the power wielded by willing Western liberal states. Theirs was a cause of fighting for economic fairness and political non-intervention in Third World countries. In all their campaigning efforts, however, the issues of Somalia have never taken a centre stage in their agendas. Thus, their political radar did not extend to Somali and African politics. For them, Somalia’s internal and clan civil war, if they were endeavour to speak about, this might lead to criticism from one clan and label them partisans in what is an ugly vicious cycle of blame game. But, often Dahir did not shy away from making his views and aspirations towards his native-country known. The rest of the group always joked and warned Dahir that his involvement in Somali politics, let alone other African politics, might be as good as signing his own death warrant. Thus, slightly feeling discouraged, Dahir gradually began worming up to the idea of staying clear of African politics, and instead trying his luck with working in British overseas embassies, as he was also a British citizen. He felt as though the group has been intentionally trying to avoid initiating a real discussion about current Somali issues, and for the most part of their meetings; this feeling made him keep the issue on a low profile. However, that night, Dahir was adamant and insistently upbeat, about making recent political developments in Somalia, the night’s discussion. Even when his friends had tried to digress from the topic he has proposed, he found a way to bring them back to Somalia’s political on-goings. While the group discussed recent news coverage on Somalia casually, Dahir was at all not satisfied with such general details. He was growing more eager for a serious and in-depth discussion on Somali political development. Among this group of friends, expect for him, it was only Carsten who was most knowledgeable on Horn of African geo-politics. Carsten was sitting opposite to where he was sitting and was silent, as though completing on serious philosophical questions, as is usual with him. Snapping his fingers rather loudly, to get Carsten’s attention, he leaned forward and asked ‘Carsten, oh dear Carsten, would you be so kind in enlightening us on recent change in Somali politics. Please tell us, what do you think these changes mean for the country, and saliently, for regional geo-politics?’ Carsten smiled at Dahir, his facing assuming a brighter shade and looked around at his friends. Carsten is by nature someone who demands complete attention of his audiences if and when he decides to lecture them as if his words are too missed or misheard. His quick glance at friends has registered in him that feeling that Dahir’s question to be of some importance, as it has made them attentive in anticipation to hear his informed answer and analysis. ‘A very important, Dahir’ began Carsten, ‘what has happened in Somalia in the last few months, was indeed so dramatic and completely unexpected, that one can confidently claim that the UIC’s rise, was nothing short of a revolution.’ ‘Alleluia!’ exclaimed Kevin. Kevin’s timely Alleluia threw the group into laugher, which solicited a low inaudible comment from Aslam. ‘Shush, quiet, quiet!’ demanded Dahir as he made himself comfortable in his seat, ‘continue please, Carsten! Please elaborate!’ he kindly requested. ‘What I am trying to say here is that really, with such grass-root revolutions however impressive they appear are likely to be short-lived in Africa for they come with domestic legitimacy!’ explained Carsten. But instead of continuing, looking somewhat hesitant to continue and faced Dahir. He knew what he has was about to say next would dampen Dahir’s enthusiastic attitude. The night has so far been enjoying and he didn’t want to spoil with his seemingly negative assessment of the Somali situation. Yet his slight hesitation met with the group’s demanding ‘continue, don’t stop now!’ He realized he couldn’t stop there abruptly. He had to pick it up from where he stopped. ‘And legitimacy, friends, guarantees the assured longevity of the ruler!’ he posited. ‘Exactly how is that relevant in current Somali political atmosphere, if I may ask?’ inquired Aslam. ‘Yes please tell us then’ added John. Whatever the outcome, Carsten thought; I must display the brilliance of my grasp on this particular matter. He sat upright and stretched his hands upon the table in preparation. Concentrating his eyes on the cup of mint tea before him, he began to explain: ‘the legitimate, lengthened rule of the victorious Union of Islamic Courts in Mogadishu really appears to me to be a political paradox.’ ‘What do you a political paradox?’ interjected Dahir with a less enthusiastic face. ‘If you would just let me explain further’ requested Carsten. ‘Please do by all means’ Dahir said agreeably. That is when Carsten, after clearing his throat for better delivery of speech give a long explanation beginning with: ‘There is a political paradox because what you have in Mogadishu is the incredible clash of domestic political legitimacy and regional/international disapproval! The UIC fighters, who have come to power with the help of wide-spread grass-root support, are considered legends by the Somali public, and the paradox is, I am afraid to say; regionally and internationally, these fighters are beginning called names with negative political connotations such as Islamists, extremists, terrorists, and being accused of providing a safe haven for alleged terror networks like Al-Qaeda and so on. And one fact that we derive from such name-callings is prelude to being included in America’s so-called ‘Axis of Evil’. What we must also remember about the raise of the UIC is this: the very initial necessity that has miraculously brought them to power has the likelihood of ironically driving them out of power! In their rank and file, the UIC consists of figures who have taken arms against local War-lords, armed with Ethiopian weaponry that was financed with American dollars. Both the Americans and the Ethiopians of course have their predicable lame interests in shaping Somali politics, or even better for them, maintaining it in its chaotic state. Americans says it wants to capture the suspected terrorists who have masterminded the bombing of their embassies in East Africa. Ethiopian, in turn, has many multi-faceted and history interests in Somalia. As the prime enemy of Somalia even in ancient times, she was wants to assure no strong government comes to exist; a government that may ‘threaten’ its national security. These two countries are willing to enforce their interests in Somalia through either full-on invasion or gun-boat diplomacy, and it is for this reason that Ethiopia has thousands of troops already inside Somalia, closely stationed near Mogadishu in the town of Baidoa. Similarly, American war-ships are station in the Somali Ocean with Mogadishu in sight. Their reason for being there was to imprison wrongly suspected religious leaders and businessmen, whom their Warlord minions were to hunt and deliver. That was the plan then but in a queer turn of events, the hunted became the hunters and miraculously defeated an entire coalition of Warlords. However, ousting them is one thing but becoming exempted from the US’ so-called war-on-terror is a whole different ball-game! Compositionally, most of the UIC’s members, which are united by political Islam, would almost certainly attract the US or its minions’ attempts to conduct a regime change! Sooner or later, the UIC, just like the Taliban of Afghanistan and Saddam of Iraq, may become subjected to a forceful regime. And this surely, will cost the war-ravaged people of Somalia very dearly!’ After finishing his analysis, Carsten, seeming somewhat displeased to have shared his not-so-positive analysis, exhaled and fell back into his chair. Of the group, Dahir appeared most saddened by Carsten apocalyptic but yet realistic analysis of the situation. Without making any effort to comment on Carsten’s analysis, he picked up the pot of mint tea and poured himself more tea. Carsten realized Dahir’s sudden fall into a mood of unhappiness. In his a bid to cheer him up Carsten commented ‘Dahir, please remember that my analysis is most probably inaccurate and I am hoping would be the case. Who knows, the UIC might not necessarily face any internal and external obstacles at all. Ten years from now, it is absolutely possible that I would be popping in to see you in a London Somali embassy as the Chief Diplomat, mate!’ Dahir chuckled at the thought. ‘You may very well be right, Carsten’ added John. ‘Dahir, I might even come seeking a position under you, mate. Just don’t ignore me, you hear?’ Kevin jokingly said. ‘Stop it guys! You are making me grow a big head now’ said Dahir sarcastically. Soon afterwards, John looked at his watch and told the group ‘guys I must catch the last train.’ ‘We might all do so as well. We’ve all got a long commute ahead of us’ added Aslam. Before they parted Carsten stood to say few words. Feeling somewhat guilty about his previous negative analysis he advised: ‘Brother, the time has come again to up the ante against the disastrous and destructive American foreign policy, which, as we speak, is wrecking havoc on the poor of the Third World. We must strive intensively and extensively, to make sure the now peaceful Somalia and its people don’t become the victims of US’ and its minion, Ethiopia’s state terrorism. We must campaign and organize; we must inform the world and mobile support; we must write to influential political leaders and influence international politics spare the already wave-stricken people whose only chance to peace and life the US would destroy. We must undertake this project with utmost urgency, while we still have ample time. There is no second guessing the hawkish neo-conservatives in White House are planning against the UIC but we mustn’t give them the time of the day to do anything. I suggest that from this on-coming week, we draw the plans for this project. And since I am suggesting it, I intend to fully commit to it. I don’t know what you guys have to say about my suggestion, but I beg you to join me’ ended Carsten’s advice. On that suggestion, the group immediately started clapping. They were impressed by Carsten’s fore-sight and suggestion. Soon as their clapping faded, Dahir moved closer to stand beside Carsten, place his right hand on his right shoulder and energetically began to chant, ‘Oh captain, my captain, sail across the high seas and I would follow; trek across vast terrains and I would follow; or lead me to war and beside you, like this, I shall fight to live or to die as is your fate!’ The group received Dahir’s animated and humorous chant jovially and began to sing and repeat Dahir’s chant. Their chanting symbolized a vow of committed comradeship in what they called ‘Operation Protecting Revolutions (OPR)’. On this note, they say their goodbyes and departed with the understanding communicating with each other via emails within the on-coming week days.

^^Lol. Oo yaad is moodey? A geeljirto? .

^^Looool. Could be the only pair of flipflops the poor man would have for a long time and he's using all available trickery to spare them from thievery. I remember in Nairobi mosques (expect Jamia Mosque) how one of my cousins adviced me to separate my shoes. You leave one on the shoe stuck, and take the other with you to the front rows. Plastic bag comes in handy for that task!

Guess what, it aint going to be dropping down the Tescos you know.. It entails covering thousands of miles in the heat of day, ladies. Better re-think your aspirations .

A brother sent me this image below. It must be a psychological trick to keep Nigerian Mosque thieves on their feet . It is likely that when the thief sees the way the flipflops have been secured, he might as well not steal them. I mean it works with locked houses etc lol. Make sure the thieves don't get your flip flops We need to secure our properties.., I fully understand the effect crime is having on all Nigerians, but this is excessively far. This was left outside a local mosque in Nija!!!

^^Maandheey kheerbaad sheegeysaa, mindhaa waalidkaa ayaa aad kuugu duceeyey .

^^Lol. Ma sidan baad wiil-waamo ku tahay. Go'shinoow bal wiilkan dhowra . PS: Farax; I'd prefer walking some of part of it..especially the desert areas...but I am not sure of North.

^^ No its not. I used to think of it that way but I realised it is a good socializing tool. Heck I even joined the facebook-mania. In SOL group, I am the bearded man calling himself Foori Dheere .

^^Erm, waa ramadaane ha i dambaajin, as jacaylbaro says. Lol@boomaato...there are other better and effective ways of axem getting rid of it Zafir.

Boy do I love seeing those digits on his pay cheque...Si kasto aan u xanaaqsanahay ama ay iiga jajabantahay, markaan arko it is like ineey farxad igu soo dagtay...lol Xaashaa Lillaah!

^^Da'deedii buu joogaa bay ila tahay - ay wejiga sida caana kaxata ugu soo yaaci jirtey

North, now that I am fed, how about this for a line up: Egypt, Libya, Niger, Mali, , Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Cost, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo (Braseville) a boat ride from there to Angola, Nambia and finally South-Africa (cape-town). Of course there is another more direct route than this, which doesn't include west african counries. This route starts from Cairo (Egypt), Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawai, Zambia, Namibia (in the place of Zimbabw) and finally the Cape (South Africa). The latter route is more convenient for most people. Actually as I recall it, there use to be cyclists who often use this route throughout the year.

^^Lol we sure do. Be back later ... Afur munching time...

Warning: dont watch this if you are not hard hearted. May make you vomit. Watching was something .

^^ I am a big fan of Michael Palin ..hell yeah I am.... Been watching Machael Palin's New Europe few days ago. The man is a legend in his own life time. PS: Insha-Allah will let you know when sxb. Lol@permission. You better!

The rhino said that he often feels like a victim of her nitpicking. Looool Poor fellow. Women, eh? Nitpicking as ever...

^^Maasha-Allah. Thanks for the link bro. On trekking the Sahara, glad to know of your ambition sxb. Don't think I haven't contemplated the trek as you mentioned above. I did. But I thought for the first time, a pilot route would be fine. Then when one is equiped with experience, the grander plans can be implimented . PS: I wouldn't want to cross the middle east north. Africa would do just fine, from cairo to capetown.

This is has been a secret dream of mine from childhood. I somehow felt spiritually drawn to N.Africa's Sahara desert. Till a year or so ago, it remained just that, a dream. But lately my yarning is growing ever more rapidly and I am seriously considering the trek. So, I would like to ask you fellow forumers, whether any of you has been fortunate enough to spend time trekking in that desert? I mean journey through parts of it- walking or on camel? Thanks

Come again? Do you mean they handed in collaborators of 'habashi'? To the habashis? I can't figure out what you mean, King.

Stabbing a driving man while you are in the moving truck? Classic Somali logic! Looks like a half-fulfilled suicide attempt to me. Illaah sidii roon haka yeelo arrintan, amin. Ilmaha yar Allaha u gaargaaro waxba muu galabsanine.

Yup, thats the one. I think he mentioned Asmara by mistake. You got it son. You did.

^^Lol. It is like driving license dear. You gotta be old/handful enough to fit in the driving seat . That makes it legal or illegal. Though the juxiposition of 'kids' and 'marriage', however temporary, gives me a splitting headache. Kids should be acustomed to whipping, not quickies.