SILVER LININGElections and the worry of violence [Archives:2006/974/Opinion]
Mohammed Al-Qadhi
Attack and counterattack brand the heated ongoing arguments and media barrage between the opposition coalition and the ruling GPC. The current rhetorical fight between the two sides is a bad omen that the upcoming elections might be violent.
Last week, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) country representative Robin Madrid expressed concerns about potential violent elections.
I do share her concerns because the launch of these campaigns, which should officially kick off next Wednesday, focus on personal attacks rather than policies. These politicians waste much of their time in arguments that do not serve the public need, but are just badmouthing and insults.
One could imagine when reading the media outlets of the two sides that these people are going to war rather than voting. Hey guys, please tone down your rhetoric as media can always start a war but cannot stop one.
I understand the fact that Yemenis are heavily armed. In moments of tension the guns speak louder than the logic, particularly in tribal areas where people are easily irritated. We constantly hear scaring reports of armed killings between tribesmen, sometimes for petty reasons. It's important the National Defense Council banned arms carrying at the polling centers. But enforcement is most important.
The two sides signed the agreement of principles to ensure fair and free elections through neutralizing public resources, media, and army. This agreement is considered good and the signatories should respect it and work to meet its terms. The failure of the two sides to do that puts us all in hot water.
I know both sides are responsible for the success or failure of the agreement, but the majority of the responsibility has to fall on the ruling GPC because it has the power and influence to direct all election processes.
For God's sake, let the people have a say without influence or intimidation because those evil tricks cause hell to break loose. When the fire starts, it is not easy to put it out.
The Yemeni people have got enough problems. There is poverty, unemployment, water shortages and food shortages – to list the ones at the top of the list. They do not need any more headaches to worsen their lives.
We look forward to democracy and elections can be an instrumental tool for change to have a better tomorrow. We do not want elections and democracy to drive us into turmoil and chaos. We need a democracy that builds rather than blows us apart. We are already have problems.
By no means should the opposition keep mute and surrender to violations and abuses of the elections process, but they should resist and stand up to them peacefully.
And the PGC people should be wise enough to know that if they pull triggers then no one will win. We all lose if our country falls into chaos and disorder. We should take the example of Somalia very seriously and realize the aftermath of any stupid act from both sides – stupid is as stupid does.
Mohammed Al-Qadhi is a Yemeni journalist and columnist.
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