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by Hibo Ibrahim
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Terrorism has become a word used to justify many of the wars waged against civilians in different regions of the world, including our very own Somalia. “Ethiopian defense forces were forced to enter into war to protect the sovereignty of the nation. We are not trying to set up a government for Somalia, nor do we have an intention to meddle in Somalia's internal affairs. We have only been forced by the circumstances.” These words were uttered by Ethiopian Prime Minister, Meles Zenawi; But at what price? Does the massive displacement and casualties incurred, validate the presence of Ethiopian troops in the streets of Mogadishu killing, raping and bombing innocent Somali civilians? Does the victimization of the Somalis in their own soil rationalize the crimes committed against them in the name of “War on Terror”?
It has become inevitable to view Ethiopia’s war as one of vengeance and not an elimination of radical menace contrary to the justifications put forth by Mr. Zewani. The civil war and the lack of patriotism among Somalis played a vital role in creating an easy platform for Ethiopians to avenge the loss of their soldiers in the 1977 war. As a Somali, it pierces my heart to see, my country and my people bleed, while the international community adopts the role of bystanders in the catastrophe that is occurring in Somalia today. But who can blame them, for if it isn’t Ethiopian, it’s another Somali.
What needs to happen, for us to see that our insignificant tribalism has gained us nothing but shame? We travel the world using another nation’s passport, now isn’t that lame? It is tragic that the only legacy we leave behind is that of poverty, starvation and warmongering. If Richard Burton traveled Somalia today, he would not refer to us as a “Nation of Poets” but a “Nation of Savages”.
Elderly Somalis residing in different parts of the world wait for Divine intervention in bringing about a solution to the never ending calamity that has engulfed Somalia; while the younger generations have adapted and owned the alien world with no hope of returning to Somalia one day. Obviously UN has decided to watch the upheaval in Somalia from afar and the rest of the world remain catalysts in Ethiopia’s rampage, I wonder who is going to sacrifice himself divinely for Somalia sake?
As a young Somali myself, I can’t help but cry, for what is happening in my country torments me yet my people’s reaction angers me. Why can’t we find just one leader who has an ounce of patriotism in his blood? Why can’t we find educated Somalis returning home to bring about a change and not rob the poor with their scholastic skills? Why is it that the only Somalis willing to return are either political thugs or business men? Neither of whom have unselfish interests.
In spite of all the deliberately planned horrific persecutions we witnessed thus far, whether it was in the hands of our own kind or that of the enemy, it is only my hope that my Somalis put aside their petty differences and remember to honor the dream of our forefathers, who stood strong and tall against Colonial Rule. The independence we have gained in 1960 didn’t come around through international community or divine intervention, it’s the fruits of hardworking, devotional and loyal nationalists, who dedicated their lives to attaining a common goal; FREEDOM.
“Dhulka Hooyo Waa Lama Huraan”THOUGHTS OF A REFUGEE
Hibo Ibrahim
E-mail: [email protected]