Harmony In Setif, Algeria

Although voters will be allowed to choose elected representatives, their choices are limited to candidates blessed by the military-backed system of government that has prevailed in Algeria since it gained independence from France in 1962. Only a handful of minor opposition parties are permitted to run against the governing coalition.

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Technorati Tags: algeria, election, 2007, parlimentary, vote, politics

This last week I read that Al Qaeda was encouraging their followers to boycott today’s Parlimentary elections. And I thought,  “what a way to make changes, not supporting the democrat process, … idiots!” But, then last night when I was doing my weekly grocery shopping, I inquired with the merchants if they were going to be voting. And they said ‘no’ they don’t want to vote because all the nominees are corrupt! Well, that’s a system that works, huh? So, I am left thinking to myself what is the solution to this problem. The president hasn’t, thus far, promoted an atmosphere where the people of Algeria can freely express themselves about what they want or how they feel. My God! The press are locked up for criticizing government officials. How can an average Algerian feel confident to do so. So, of course, the nominees are corrupt! They know someone, or knows someone who knows someone who will help them get to the top in a corrupt system. It’s a shame, really. Algerians as a people are very kind and generous. Their country has so much potential for being great! But, the ignorant and greedy just can’t get enough! I wish upon a wish, pray upon a prayer that Algerians could come together in an intelligent and peaceful way, of course, and effect some real changes within their communities and government.

Technorati Tags: vote, parlimentary, election, algeria, algerian, setif, corruption