... please remember those who do not have this blessing, especially those who are speaking out in favor of democracy and the rule of law:
In 2004, prominent Yemeni journalist Abdulkarim al-Khaiwani wrote from jail, "I believe in democracy, freedom, equality and rights and am willing to suffer for their sake simply because I do not wish my children to suffer dictatorship and I will strive to provide them a better future."
Cotillion blog-sister, Jane Novak, writes "Leading Yemeni Journalist Abdulkarim al-Khaiwani Arrested" over at WorldPress.
Mr. al-Khaiwani has been working diligently to promote democracy and openness in Yemen, decrying government abuses and nepotism. He is a clarion voice calling for democratic reform. He's also paid his dues:
Al-Khaiwani was released after seven months in jail. He continued to write about topics important to Yemen including corruption, nepotism and civil rights. He faced down a series of governmental harassments, censorship, threats and defamation only to be arrested last week on fabricated terrorism charges...
The arrest of the internationally renowned reformist sent shock waves through Yemen and the international community. On the day of his arrest, the Committee to Protect Journalists expressed concern that "al-Khaiwani is being punished for his outspokenness." Reporters Without Borders urged the Yemeni government to release the journalist.
Both the fact and manner of the arrest are shocking. Al-Khaiwani was taken into custody by counter-terrorism forces who posed as electrical workers to gain entry to his home. They were authorized to use deadly force if he resisted arrest. Once inside his home, they struck al-Khaiwani's seven-year-old daughter so hard that she fell into unconsciousness. The officers beat the journalist bloody with the butts of their guns. He was transported to jail bleeding and less than fully clothed, a humiliation considering the very conservative nature of Yemeni society. [emphasis mine]
Make sure you read Jane's whole article for the full scope of this barbaric and oppressive action by the Yemeni government.
Freedom isn't free, and I hope and pray that America will regain her backbone and stand firmly and proudly on the side of those who fight for democracy and freedom!
Recent Comments