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Why Should The West Concern Itself With Elections In Nigeria? Read This
Why should the West concern itself with the elections in Nigeria, you ask. You think the mudslinging during our campaigns are bad, what is happening in Nigeria is frightening, not only to the people there, but to the world. Or at least it should be. Take a look at what’s surfacing today.
“If Maiduguri falls into the hands of Boko Haram, it would be a disaster for Africa as a continent” And that’s only a portion of the implications for the West and the world.
Snapshots of Chaos in Nigeria and the elections and what it’s about. Who are the parties?
Ideology : Social democracy,Big tent
Progressivism, Federalism
Political position:Centre-left
International affiliation Socialist International
Ideology : Catch all
Economic liberalism,
Political position: Centre-right to Right-wing
Religion: Secular
International affiliation:None
We have been reporting on the increase of attacks in Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, and Chad ahead of the Feb. elections in Nigeria. We have verified that intense fighting is taking place in Maiduguri and surrounding areas by a force from Chad and the military of Nigeria. Some reports claim that there is a civilian force also combating this evil. Reports are surfacing that offer proof that indeed this an effort to thwart the election. And at the very least throw off the outcome. Nigeria is at a crossroads. A very dark crossroad. One that could shake the world if the back and forth between candidates is true. And it appears as if they are. I wondered why John Kerry would visit Nigeria ahead of the elections and it’s becoming frighteningly clear.
Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – “If Maiduguri falls into the hands of Boko Haram, it would be a disaster for all of Africa”, says Fr. Gideon Obasogie, head of social communications of the Diocese of Maiduguri, capital of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria.
“Maiduguri is the state capital and the seat of Government, with all its structures, with a high concentration of state population and the commercial nerve of the northeast”, explains Fr. Obasogie. “If the city falls, citizens will be more facile to radicalization and the terrorists will have more conscripts. Maiduguri for Boko Haram would become a strong base and then rumble into Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe and Adamawa. Finally, if Maiduguri falls, the militants would control an airport and a military base with the 7 Div. This is really and truly dangerous for Nigeria, as it is a potential disaster for Africa as a continent”, emphasizes the priest. “So far – said Fr. Obasogie – the militants have conquered and occupied towns and villages near Maiduguri”.
The priest describes the situation in the capital of Borno State: “With the recent waves of attacks, there is so much fear and tension in the air. With the February Polls drawing ever close we see all sorts of personalities with well fashioned and designed promises too good to be taken as true; trooping into Maiduguri and the northeast, not to identify with us in our plight but to beg for our votes”.
“Citizens of Maiduguri as much as possible avoid crowded areas and the polling units would not be an exception, unless people’s security is assured and ensured. If anyone needs our votes, our safety must first be assured”, concludes Fr. Obasogie. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 05/02/2015)
Another report from Fides confirms the above dire situation that Nigeria and the Christian population faces: “We risk seeing Boko Haram conquer the entire north-east before the end of the election, unless foreign troops intervene”, said Mgr. Doeme, referring to the presidential elections to be held in mid-February and to the coordination of the military actions of neighboring Countries against Boko Haram, after the latest raids of Nigerian extremists in Cameroon and the conquest of the base of the international force of Baga, on the shores of Lake Chad (see Fides 09/01/2015).
“The situation is very complex and the first victims are innocent civilians”, concluded the Bishop of Maiduguri who implies the existence of some “saboteurs” and accomplices within the Nigerian army, who favor the advance of Boko Haram for political reasons.”
Not only that, but we have reported on the checkered past of Buhari (has been referred to over the years as: “Janjanweed ticket”) who is running for President, and the smear campaigns on both sides, now this quote from today’s report by the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Olisa Metuh sends chills down the spine of those watching and know the groups behind the demonic slaughter taking place in the whole of Africa: “We know that 90 per cent of these non-indigenes are supporters of the PDP. This is part of the APC Janjaweed ideology to truncate democracy in this country.” “The APC have been saying they were on top of the election, but now that it is obvious that PDP is on top, that President Goodluck Jonathan will win the election, they have resorted to causing mayhem.”
“Janjaweed are omnipresent. They are seen in marketplaces and within walking distance of refugee camps. They have terrorized black Africans in Darfur for more than a year.”
We shared this report a year ago, about the evil in the CAR and now there are those who are tying this in with the current violence in the Northeast of Nigeria. Africa: A Sinister Plot Behind the Massacre In CAR.
The Janjaweed are a ruthless group with the same ideologies as ISIS, Boko Haram, Al-Shabob, the Seleka, and many other groups. To form their own government, “Sharia” and rule the continent of Africa and the Middle East— with the end time goal of ruling the World. They hate the West, they hate democracy, they hate Christians and other minorities. They show no mercy in their murderous slaughter. And now they have their sights on Nigeria.
Still other reports tell of the untold suffering of civilians most specifically Christians. Doctors without Borders is desperately trying to send what aid they can. Most have retreated to the bush as the refugee camps are either overcrowded or are not safe. The very least implication is that certified voters will be null and void as at least 1/4 of the population is displaced with more displacement every day. Malnutrition is rampant, and disease is not far behind. When you ask questions and seek the answers they are not hard to find, and it’s not hard to see that the interests of Africa are not for the innocent. Pray for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
Screenshot: From “The Devil Came On Horseback” (Janjaweed)
Recommended:
The Devil Came On Horseback: A documentary about the Janjaweed, a Sudanese government backed militia, who have stolen, raped and murdered Sudanese people in Darfur. (Watch) *Very Graphic*
All Civilians Subject To Persecution-What Is Driving The Uncontrolled Violence In The CAR?
Children of Car, all they know is war
It is reported that today, John Kerry is in Africa with ‘tough messages, for Sudan and the CAR to curtail the violence in both area’s. And that he was prepared to instill sanctions. That’s his answer to the violence. (More)
Violence in the CAR continues as evidenced by the recent attack on a Hospital in Boguila resulting in the deaths of 16 people. One of those killed was a Doctor with the aid group Doctors Without Borders.
Since the takeover of the government there, and the coup against Bozize, the Seleka have continued their murderous rampage, with the government unable to control them. They were driven from area’s in the CAR and the new president vow’s that the ‘New Army’ will rid the area of violence. But so far, this has not happened. Chadian forces were brought into the mix, but left after they fired on a group and killed Christians. The Chadian forces were accused of partiality toward the Muslims.
CAR rebel factions
The Anti-Balaka have been touted by the media as a Christian group seeking revenge for Seleka atrocities. We have done extensive research on this group. They are far from Christian. It is claimed the group was formed as vigilantes to aid in protecting Christians being attacked by the formwe self proclaimed President Michel Djotodia. Who has trained and supplying this group that the government now cannot control. We have one video report from a news agency that clearly show’s that many of the Anti-Balaka are ex-military. The Seleka and Anti-Balaka have many members from both groups fighting together.
We have also raised questions about the Lord’s Resistance Army, as many of the practices of the Anti-Balaka are very similar to the LRA. The international community has been tracking the LRA for years, with reports that they are still in the CAR. Recently it was released that a Junior Commander from the Lord’s Resistance Army was captured and arrested in the CAR. They may have moved underground, but they are still operating in these areas. We know there is a fight for control of oil rich lands there also. Who or what is pushing this ethnic cleansing in the land ? Even Christian news agencies are simply reporting that the Ant-Balaka are a Christian group seeking revenge.
This is an evil presence that is quickly becoming an equal to Hitler’s ideology in WW2. The ravaged populace is seeking refuge in churches and hospitals, and the rebels are attacking aid workers and places of refuge. This seems not a conventional war. If it were, the Geneva Convention would come into play. Doctor’s Without Borders is one of the only aid agencies left and now they are being forced to pull out. Fides agency reports this quote from Doctors Without Borders:
“We are extremely shocked and saddened by the brutal violence used against our health workers team and against the community. This scary incident has forced us to withdraw staff and suspend activities in Boguila” said the Head of Mission for DWB in the Central African Republic.
The attacks on aid workers is a growing concern. Not only agencies like Doctors Without Borders, but private workers trying to administer whatever aid they can. A motive of these rebels— to attack first responders. We see over and over with the suicide bombings. They are not planting explosives in multiple areas. One to go off on their target, and one to go off when the first responders arrive. This is pure evil and cowardice. There is no honor as they claim. Honor in killing for their god, but no god would give honor for those who kill the helpless, wounded, and innocent.
What is his future? Be his VOICE
This is also rampant from Sudan to Nigeria. The super highway of terror connecting the regions of Africa. In Egypt, the recent rape of a young, six year old boy by a supporter of the Muslim Brotherhood. He claims that he was teaching the boy a lesson. The child was singing about the new leader of Egypt. General Sisi. Again, how do they find honor in such an atrocity committed against an innocent child, the most vulnerable. A command for rape and torture to teach a child, or anyone a lesson does not come from God.
In Nigeria they are holding at last count 230 school girls hostage. The Boko Haram kidnapped them, force them to convert to Islam, forced into marriage while they use them as sex and domestic slaves. This is their M.O. Again, how does one find honor in this? No one after the initial shock has reported further on the recent Abuja Bombing, where is the media? This was no ordinary suicide bombing, stronger, and deadlier and more sophisticated than previous attacks. Why? Where are they obtaining their weapons? Why won’t the media continue to investigate and report? It has also been suggested that the military is helping and giving aid to the Boko Haram. Where is the UN Human Rights Council? The religious leaders have repeatedly stated that this is a political war and not a religious war. A persecuted Christian has pleaded with us to get the media more involved, to inform the international community of the truth. From our discussion, one of his questions keeps resounding in our minds—So we have no way out?
Snapshots From Daily Life In Nigeria: Rape, Kidnapping, Torture & Precision Executions
CNN is covering the kidnapping of 234 school girls. (Here) But for the most part the Mainstream Media refuses to show the wrathful, atrocious, malicious, reprobate acts carried out against innocent people in Nigeria. The daily lives of Christians and other religious minorities have been decimated and reduced to chaos, and uncertainty. Uncertain whether the sun will set or rise without the heinous shedding of innocent blood. These conflicts in Africa are spreading their darkness, the blackness grows, and with it comes the demons called Boko Haram, Al-Shabab, Al-Queda, Seleka, ‘Lord’s Resistance Army’, Anti-Balaka, and all other rebel groups that share the same evil codes.
The media refuses to investigate the corruption of the governments in these places, the blatant ignoring of the slaughter and kidnappings by the government there and here in the west, goes largely silent. (More) They should be raising alarms and red flags and asking tough questions. Questions & concerns that are valid and need addressing in order to uncover the darkness that lives here.
The toll this is taking on not only the innocent, population, but on those attempting to aid the victims, is reaching proportions not seen since WW2. The beheadings, and executions, alone are enough to cause even the seasoned war veterans to go mad. And yet these people witness this every day.
We have talked with people on the ground and it’s unimaginable what they have to endure. These images will mark them and walk with them the rest of their lives. They say that their faith in God is the only thing that sustains them. Recently an aid worker delivering clothes and other aid to victims was gunned down. His crime? Attempting to provide relief, a little comfort in a ravaged region, some clothing. Imagine that. Those who are brave enough to go into the middle of slaughter are gunned down. They put their lives at risk daily just to provide comfort, and these malicious demons slaughter them.
Then there is the hundreds of school girls that were kidnapped. The unspeakable terror that they are facing is heartwrenching. The parents of the girls say that the number is 234. Yet where are the armies looking for them? Where is the outcry from the UN? Where is the outcry from the West? We know the history of these evil groups and why they kidnap young girls and children. The girls are raped and forced into slavery among the rebels, and they are the fortunate ones. The boys are forced into serving as militant soldiers in what can only be described as the devils army. And they too are used as sex slaves and in prostitution. Pedophilia runs rampant. They are psychologically tortured, and forced into martyrdom. Innocent children, that should be worried about what they will wear to school, or what their grades will be this semester. Instead they are forced to endure torture beyond human capabilities.
The international community needs to highlight and draw this to the attention of their governments, instead of covering it up or ignoring it. Something must to be done. As we saw in Rwanda and also what we are seeing in the CAR, a genocide has already begun— as we sit comfortably here in the West feeling as though nothing ever touches us. Atrocities are taking place on a catastrophic level. While the West worries about prom dresses, dance recitals and ball games. Minute by minute, the children in these countries are facing rape, torture and death. How much longer will you remain silent?
BE THEIR VOICE!
By C. Refsland, VOP Advocate/News Analyst
President Assad Visits Christian Maaloula, While The West Turns A Blind Eye
Fox News and others are reporting that President Assad visited Maaloula on Sunday. This is a village that was attacked and many were slaughtered by rebels. We found it utterly amazing that it is reported that taking back this village from the Al-Queda affiliated rebels was a prize to the government. Assad said that he wants to protect Christians, and other religious minorities. We know Christians were afforded a certain amount of freedom and movement that they don’t have now. In one rebel held area, Christians have to pay a tax to the rebels, convert or die. Many media reports from the MSM about Syria are not accurate. We’ve all seen an realize that. Here’s an excerpt from Fox News:
President Bashar Assad on Sunday toured a historic Christian village his forces recently captured from rebels, state media said, as the country’s Greek Orthodox Patriarch vowed that Christians in the war-ravaged country “will not submit and yield” to extremists. Syrian state TV and the country’s official SANA news agency said Assad was in Maaloula, inspecting the damage done in recent fighting to its monasteries and churches.
What do the people of Syria say? Some say the media reports about Syria are wrong. Some say that Assad is actually correct in saying this is not a civil war, it’s terrorists. Some say that the Army and the rebels are both playing games. Others say that both sides are committing atrocities. When talking to those who have fled Syria, you get a different picture all together. While they tell us that Christians had better conditions under Assad, they also say the Government is to blame for the slaughter of Christians, by intentionally moving out of villages and allowing the rebels to take over. Thus causing the slaughter of Christians.
The Christians in these villages held by rebels have come to rely on the government there for protection. When they leave and allow rebel takeovers, many are killed. It raises the question, “Is this an intentional cleansing of Christians?” Syria is not the only place this is happening. It’s happening in Nigeria, the CAR, Sudan, Yemen, Libya and other countries. It is becoming so bad that some call it the next genocide. Yet the Western leaders are either complicit or blinded. The people of the west hardly raise an eyebrow. No one is listening. No one is listening to the heartbreak, the anguish the sorrow of those affected by this. The survivors, the ones that have fled to safety live every day with the nightmares caused by the evil that is growing there. It is hard to express in words the evil that is there. There is no regard for human life, no regard for anything except heinous slaughter. It is pure unadulterated evil. Evil that can only come from the bowels of Hell.
That’s not too harsh. Look at the images coming from these areas, the reports from those on the ground. The suffering and anguish carried by the survivors. The faith that those who witness and experience this puts all in the West to shame. Recently, a Christian facing extreme persecution told us that their faith grows stronger with the persecution.
Look at the recent statement made by Pastor Abidini for Easter. He lays in a hospital bed in Iran knowing he is going back to prison there, and he’s praying for Christians everywhere—not for himself, but for his brothers and sisters facing persecution. That kind of faith is monumental. But do western Christians have that kind of Faith? Would we have that Faith if we faced what they are facing? Would you, could you? They are an inspiration for our own faith.
As I talk to people and I look around, and listen to the news about the bombings in Abuja, the kidnapping of the schoolgirls in Nigeria, the slaughter in the CAR and Syria, the horrific images of death, starvation, torture, and rape ring in my mind. Then I ask why, why does the west remain silent. It’s not too hard to see what concerns them. Look at the television programs and what’s popular, Naked & Afraid, The Kardashians, the Shopping channels, & other reality shows. Naked and Afraid is lived every day by those in these area’s. Starvation, hardships, fear of death, is reality for them. If you want to watch a reality show, watch the news about Syria, Libya, Nigeria, Yemen, Sudan and others. That is Reality!
Good Friday killing of priest in Central African Republic
(By Caritas)The president of Caritas Central African Republic has strongly condemned the Good Friday killing of a priest in the diocese of Bossangoa.
Reports say Fr Christ Forman Wilibona was shot six times by armed men while riding on a motorcycle through traffic. He was on his way to Paoua where he was the parish priest at Saint Kisito church.
In a statement released following the killing, Archbishop Dieudonné Nzapalainga, head of Caritas CAR, said,
“We denounce and condemn these barbaric acts from another age. They could compromise the move towards national reconciliation we have so longed for.”
The archbishop calls on the CAR government to restore the rule of law and for African Union and international forces to disarm militias so people are free to move around the country.
He said the killing marked an upsurge in violence against religious – in particular those in the north-west of the country.
The killing of Fr Wilibona came just two days after Bishop Nestor Azagbya Nongo of Bossangoa and three diocesan priests were kidnapped by ex-Seleka militia in Batangafo and later released.
“We invite the people of the Central African Republic as well as all men and women of good will to pray for the return of peace and security to our country and to open their hearts to dialogue and reconciliation,” said Archbishop Nzapalainga.
Core Value: Being There, A Report On CAR From Someone Who Was There
(By Open Doors USA) Have you ever wondered why the immeasurable things in life are the very things that mean the most to you? The special moments that fill the years. The friend showing up and listening during the hard times. The love shared between two souls. These are all things that we cannot measure with inches, miles or seconds. These are gifts from God that reach into our souls.
One of the core values of Open Doors is simply “being there”. For those living in a country listed on our World Watch List, the knowledge that a brother or sister in Christ is standing with you in prayer through your persecution, is invaluable. One cannot buy this or make it happen- That is God’s power through us!
When someone in chains for their faith learns that we are united with them in prayer and spirit, they often tell us that this ‘immeasurable’ gift gives them to strength to keep going, and encourages them to keep pressing on. This bond between believers is one that can only be confirmed by the Spirit, and is one that Jesus encouraged: “Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11
Just as our obedience is evidence of our authentic faith in Jesus, there are numerous outward happenings that can show how our brothers and sisters around the world have been strengthened, and are continuing to be strengthened, through Open Doors’ ministry to them. It is our joy to share with you some ways that God is working among the persecuted believers we are working with!
Mark*, a recent traveler to the Central African Republic, shares with us his eyewitness perspective of the persecution happening there, as well as the extreme situations the CAR church is facing daily.
What did you do in the Central African Republic?
I was in the capital Bangui to see how we can support the church there amid the spiraling crisis, and to make a plan for emergency aid. We are now helping 150 pastors there through financial support. They have often lost their source of income, because they can no longer hold church services, and their church members have had to flee. We are also helping with the support of refugees. People are afraid to sleep in their homes at night, and are often staying on the church premises.
What made the greatest impression on you in the Central African Republic?
The utter unpredictability of the violence. One day, you think that everything is all right, and the next day, your spouse is murdered. Utterly atrocious acts are being committed on the basis of rumors, and innocent people are being killed. The brutality of the violence also struck me. People are not simply being killed. Sometimes the stories point towards ritual slaughter. The meetings with the victims also made a huge impression on me. I spoke to a number of widows. They showed me a photo of a pastor and his son lying in a coffin. The woman was grief-stricken.
What can you do for such women at times like this?
We can be there and listen to them. This is the core of the work of Open Doors: standing next to persecuted Christians. I am not the ‘outsider’ who drives around there setting up projects. I went there for the people and built up relationships. We are not there for a quick fix. We are trying to strengthen the CAR church in the long term. For example, we support these women in earning a living through the granting of microloans to help them start businesses. Also, through trauma care and support in reconciliation between Christians and Muslims.
Can what is happening in CAR happen in other African countries too?
Last year, from nowhere Mali appeared on the World Watch List. This year it was the Central African Republic. It’s not unthinkable that such a scenario will be played out in other countries. In Guinea, there are tensions in certain regions. Cameroon is a stable country, but the president is eighty-one. What will happen when he needs to be replaced? It is particularly tense in places where Islam and Christianity meet one another, such as in Nigeria. But we did not predict Central African Republic’s violence. We are now trying to build up networks in other countries to prepare Christians for the persecution that may arise.
To learn more about what Open Doors is about and up to, check out our 2014 Quick Facts. Please keep these believers and situations in prayer with us, and stay up to date on what is happening in the CAR here.
*Names, photographs and other information have been changed for security purposes
Updates On The CAR conflict: Chadian troops kill at least 24 in Bangui
There is so much violence in the CAR, Nigeria, Sudan, and Somalia. Staggering chaos and many, many unanswered questions. The MSM reports that Chadian Troops have killed 24 people, mainly Christians when they attacked neighborhoods in Bangui 2 days ago. Reports from BBC indicate that the Chadian troops were attacked by the ‘Christian Militia.’ BBC also say’s that Chadian forces have been accused of supporting muslim rebels. (more) What is puzzling is that the Chadian troops are not part of the African Union Peacekeeping force. So why are militaries, and militia’s allowed to wreak havoc here? Why has the government, strengthened by the French army, the UN and African Peace keeping forces not been able to bring about calm?
The African Peace keepers are defending the Chadian Troops, stating that they came under attack from ‘Christian Militias’. There are very deep feelings from the area about the Chadian troops. (More) Chad has been accused of meddling in the conflict, helping to overthrow the government last year. The new government lead by the Central African Republic’s first female president Catherine Samba-Panza, has been embroiled in it’s own controversy. At her first speech to the nation, she re-introduced the military, and minutes after she left, the new Army beat a man to death and drug him through the streets. (Read here)
Chad and Libya has had their share of back and forth, but remember Chad in the beginning was backing Gadaffi. And he even had Chadian forces defending him. We all know about the French, Nato, and Gadaffi, with reported hints of arms trafficking into Libya and the Benghazi incident, where Ambassador Stevens and others were killed. Here is a quote from International Crises Group from 2011 titled ‘Africa without Qaddafi: The Case of Chad:
“When the crisis began, Déby tried to defend Qaddafi’s legitimacy by accusing the rebels of colluding with Islamists. Though his government denied it was providing any military support, the presence of Chadian fighters in Libya among Qaddafi’s troops stripped his statements of weight.” (More)
Despite sincere efforts of the media portraying this as a religious war, this is most likely not the case. Religious leaders have been speaking out regularly stating it’s a political conflict not religious. And it’s Christian and Muslim leaders. This map may show why this conflict continues to rage. Take note of the oil pipelines.
The Christians and the Muslims have lived side by side here for years without incident. We have just reported recently that it’s been found that so-called Christians are fighting with the Seleka (muslim rebels) and the Muslim rebels are fighting with these so-called Christians. The Anti-balaka raise many red flags, such as who is training them? And the big question—where is the ‘Lord’s Resistance Army’? We know they are in the area. And not much has been said about them lately. We also found that the practices of the Anti-balaka closely resemble the practices of the ‘Lord’s Resistance Army.’ They wrongfully call themselves, Christian Militia. Their actions and rituals are far from Christianity.
Religious leaders from both sides recently met in the West begging us not to forget them. But it appears we have done just that.
The refugee camps which many are fleeing to, are rife with rebels hiding as refugees. These camps are hot beds for kidnapping, rape, torture and arms trafficking. So why can’t the government gain control? Not surprising, these arms shipments are making their way north to the Boko Haram in Nigeria. With some caches recently found and seized by the Cameroon military near the Nigerian border.
The Boko Haram are a vicious, radical Islamist sect who kill anything that move in their attacks. And they have become more embolden in recent months. Is there a connection?
Statistics
According to the UNHCR: Over 400,000 people are estimated to be internally displaced, compared to some 94,000 in early 2012. Some 65,000 individuals have fled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Republic of the Congo, Chad and Cameroon, bringing the global number of Central African refugees close to 220,000.
Euro news: Thousands have died since the mostly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power a year ago and launched a campaign of terror.
Nigeria, Boko Haram: The group is known for attacking Christians and government targets, bombing churches, attacking schools and police stations, kidnapping western tourists, but has also assassinated members of the Islamic establishment. Violence linked to the Boko Haram insurgency has resulted in an estimated 10,000 deaths between 2002 and 2013. The conflicts have left around 90,000 people displaced. Human Rights Watch claims that Boko Haram uses child soldiers, including 12 year olds.
The statistics are very hard to obtain for these areas, I can tell you in 2014 the violence and death’s have increased to the point of Genocide. The amount of people displaced has exponentially increased. Please don’t let the horrors these people face go unnoticed or forgotten. Speak out, and pray. Pray for calm, pray for peace, pray for comfort, strength, and protection. So many innocent people and children are suffering beyond imagination.
This is an ongoing conflict, and we will update as we get new information.
By C.Refsland & L.Kanalos VOP Advocates
CAR Update: Still Unclear Warlords? Rebels? & Who Is Igniting The Flames?
This video is one of the most detailed we’ve seen lately coming out of the CAR. It visits the Seleka camps and the Anti-Balaka camp. I sat in simple confusion many questions. Every answer they give raises new questions, and show’s just how volatile and chaotic this region is. At the beginning we found that the Seleka were Muslim, that they overthrew the government in 2013 and Michael Djotida claimed himself to be president. The Seleka went unchecked, I would have to say due to the instability of the military. Another rebel group formed called the Anti-balaka. They were quickly labeled as a Christian group, seeking revenge. Even though the Muslims and Christians lived side by side for years without conflict and grew friendships. Until recently that is, at least according to media reports. Religious leaders and others have repeatedly said this is not a religious war, but a political one. However it certainly looks at times like just that. This video points out the commander of the Anti-Balaka is friends with a Seleka rebel, and it clearly show’s Christians involved in the Seleka. It also points out clearly that many of the Anti-Balaka are ex-military commanders. Remember when the Anti-Balaka first came into light, they said they were a Christian group seeking revenge. Now we find out many of them are ex-Military. They are now in Jail and are guarded by the very men they used to command in the military. The Government has labeled them terrorists. But are working them in other regions. When the Military fails and the government lets chaos ensue, this is what you get. And people are suffering. People are fleeing, people are forced into camps where the rebels hide as refugees. It appears that the government is trying to pull the 2 sides together to form a legitimate military. Or are they still pitting neighbor against neighbor? Pray for the people of this region. Pray for clarity for the leaders as well as the religious leaders. Pray for caring hands.
From France 24 posted today:
VOICE OF THE PERSECUTED 