Hello folks,
Last night went OK and it was good to see X-Prime Minister addressing issues. On the actual event, his focus was not entirely on Somalia but on the Somali Bostonians and the diaspora in general and how they should organize and become part of the nations they live in. He did talk about his party and what they stand for.
The response from the community was bad insofar they didn't take advantage of his presence. Majority of those who took podium were thanking and praising him needless. Only couple of younger folks (born in America or come to the States at young age) had any meaningful questions. The rest were uselessly making noises. Unfortunately, many in the city chose to stay away and not attend the event. Being part of this community and knowing politics in Boston and Somali behavior in general, those who didn't come were primarily motivated by tribal politics.I was saddened to see majority of my tribesmen were pathetically part of those that snubbed him and for no good reason.
After the event, bunch of us met him separately.Overall he's nice guy in my estimation and to address some of Abwaan's assertions.
The man was under no illusion that will be elected. He might run but he understands he doesn't have good chance of winning.
He also understands that his party can't and will not function under the current system. The purpose of the party is to create base and mobilize people till such time when there's viable system that is conducive to multiparty system.
He has an appreciation for the kind of work that is facing any Somali leadership that comes after August. He appreciates the challenges and said those seeking leadership should understanding madaxnimo in todays Somalia is like holding burning dhuxul in your hand and being told not to let go.
The most pressing question I had was why he left after he came back to Mogadishu from Kampala declaring he won't resign. Unfortunately, nobody got to that question.
The most poignant moment of the night was when young girl took the stage and said her father was killed 16 yrs ago and posed the question why should I kill those murdered my father and let the cycle of mindless violence to continue or should we take sensible approach. She directly addressed the Somali men in the auditorium saying hadee nin gaal raacdo, the blame lies with them since they uprooted her from peaceful loving home. The kid eventually broke down but this was the most sincere moment.
Overall, the event was OK despite few hiccups, personality clashes, and qabiil politics.
Nice