Some of the guests and actors
Follow the new Obama administration's First 100 Days in office. Join us online for daily news, slideshows, blogs and more - and join the discussion. You can also follow VOA on Twitter! As always, VOANews.com, with its community site USAVotes2008.com, will continue to provide you with the latest coverage. Also check out VOA's coverage of the global economic crisis.
N. Korea Stresses War Readiness on Eve of Clinton Visit to South
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264659:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Clinton expected to discuss North Korea's apparent plans to test a long-range missile during her visit to South's capital, SeoulUS Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrives at military airport in Seongnam, south of Seoul, 19 Feb 2009North Korea says it is prepared for war, in the latest sharpening of its rhetoric against South Korea and the United States. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is expected to discuss the North's apparent plans to test a long-range missile during her visit to the South's capital. Thursday's statement from North Korea's official news agency warns South Korean leaders - who it calls a "group of traitors" - that the North's army is "fully ready for an all-out confrontation."Pyongyang also says South Korea and the United States will pay a "high price" for conducting joint military drills on the Korean peninsula next month, which the North views as a rehearsal for an invasion. American military leaders say Operation Key Reserve and Foal Eagle are a purely defensive drill held every year. About 28,000 U.S. forces are stationed in South Korea to deter any repeat of the North's 1950 invasion of the South. The latest threats come as experts warn North Korea could be days or weeks away from test-launching a ballistic missile possibly capable of reaching U.S. territory. North Korea hinted it would proceed with the launch this week, when it reasserted its right to "space development." Similar rhetoric preceded its 2006 test launch of a long range missile.South Korean Unification Minister Hyun In-taek told lawmakers, Thursday, a North Korean launch would not benefit the impoverished nation.He warns what he calls North Korea's unlawful action would lead to the country's further isolation.The possible launch, as well as efforts to get rid of North Korea's nuclear weapons, is expected to dominate talks between South Korean leaders and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Friday.Scott Snyder, director of the Center for U.S.-Korea policy, says there is plenty of buzz surrounding Clinton's visit."It's the first time in a long time that we've had a political secretary of state," Snyder said. "There's going to be a lot of interest in her, as a personality, here." Snyder says Clinton's main task will be to reassure South Korea that President Barack Obama is not neglecting the region's affairs. "It sort of seemed in the first few weeks that Asia was getting lost in the administration's agenda," Snyder said. "So, I think her visit has been a catalyst for recognition that issues like North Korea cannot be completely left off the table." Clinton is also scheduled to receive an honorary degree at a South Korean women's university, before departing for Beijing, Friday.
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China Ready to Host Secretary Clinton
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465A:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&US secretary of state arrives in Beijing FridaySecretary of State Clinton during her visit at ASEAN secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia, 18 Feb 2009 China is ready to host U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, whowill be making her first trip to Beijing in her new position. Secretary Clinton arrives in the Chinese capital, Friday. Mrs. Clinton chose to highlight climate change, among other issues,on her trip to Asia this week. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswomanJiang Yu said Thursday that China attaches great importance to theissue and hopes to strengthen Sino-American cooperation in addressingclimate change.Jiang says, despite the financial crisis, Chinaalready developed a national program against climate change and willcontinue to make unremitting efforts in this area.She also saysChina looks forward to progress at global climate treaty talks,scheduled for the end of the year in Copenhagen. China has passed theUnited States to become the world's leading emitter of greenhouse gases.Althoughclimate change is a likely topic of discussion for Clinton's Beijingvisit, many China analysts say her trip will be judged more on tonethan actual content. Chinese officials are hoping relations willcontinue in the non-confrontational spirit of the George W. Bushadministration. Clinton, herself, has advocated a "positiveand cooperative" relationship with Beijing. In a speech at the AsiaSociety in New York, last weekend, she said Washington has a very broadagenda when it comes to China.One topic likely to be addressedduring her visit is Taiwan. China views cross-straits relations as oneof the most important aspects of U.S.-China ties. Spokeswoman Jiangsays Beijing hopes the United States will stay committed to the OneChina principle.The undecided fate of 17 Uighur detainees, whowere cleared for release from Guantanamo Bay, may also be raised inSecretary Clinton's talks with her Chinese counterparts. AlthoughBeijing wants the men to be returned for trial, the United States hasnot agreed to send them to China, fearing they may be persecuted.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang YuSpokeswomanJiang says China wants the men to be prosecuted in China, because theyare members of the East Turkestan terrorist organization, which is on asanction list of the U.N. Security Council.Jiang says China is against any country accepting the Chinese Muslim detainees.Someof the 17 Uighur detainees were cleared for release as early as 2003,but have continued to be held because no other country agreed to takethem. Wednesday, a U.S. appeals court in Washington overturned aruling that would have released the men into the United States.In 2006, Albania accepted five other Uighur men who were released from Guantanamo Bay.
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Gates Says NATO Help in Afghanistan May Be Largely Civilian
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465B:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&US defense chief says, in long term, allies are more likely to provide civilian help to Afghan government than additional troops Defense Secretary Robert Gates (File) The day after President Obama approved the deployment of 17,000 additional U.S. troops for Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said he will ask NATO allies to also send more troops to help provide security for the country's presidential and provincial elections, scheduled for August. But the secretary says in the long term the allies are more likely to provide civilian help to the Afghan government than additional troops.
Gates spoke on his way to Krakow, Poland for a meeting of NATO defense ministers.
The secretary's emphasis on civilian help from NATO reflects the recognition in the U.S. government that the allies have provided just about all the troops they are willing to provide, currently about 32,000. Gates says he still wants more NATO troops for the elections in August, for which he says the commitment has been disappointing, but he says those may be short-term deployments.
"We really need additional help on the civilian side, there needs to be a strengthening on the civilian side, as we are strengthening on the military side. And frankly I think that it may be, I hope that it may be, easier for our allies to do that than significant troop increases, especially for the longer term," he said.
Secretary Gates says the NATO civilians can help on projects related to improving the performance of the Afghan government, improving the legal system and fighting corruption and the drug trade.
He also called on NATO members to send more military trainers to Afghanistan to help the effort to increase the size of the country's army to 134,000. The Afghanistan war is not popular in many NATO countries, and many leaders are concerned that sending more troops, who could potentially suffer more casualties, would hurt them with voters, or even bring down their coalitions.
President Obama has ordered a senior-level Afghanistan strategy review, with the results expected before he meets with his NATO counterparts at their summit at the beginning of April. But on Tuesday the president approved the deployment of 17,000 more U.S. troops, which will bring the total U.S. commitment to about 55,000 by June.
Secretary Gates says the troops are needed to improve security, regardless of exactly what strategy the president adopts.
"I think that these additional numbers give us a better chance to provide the kind of security for the population that is necessary, frankly, for economic development and for governance to take hold, and so on," he said.
But the secretary says how long the troops stay, and whether they are replaced when their tours of duty end, will depend on the outcome of the strategy review. He also says the deployments will result in a reduction of the U.S. troop presence in Iraq, because some of the units being sent to Afghanistan had been scheduled for Iraq deployments.
Secretary Gates is the only member of the cabinet of former-President George W. Bush asked to stay on by President Obama, and the Krakow meeting Thursday and Friday is the first time the secretary is meeting with his NATO colleagues since the change of U.S. administrations a month ago. He said he is bringing new message.
"The message is that it is a new administration. And the administration is prepared, as the president's decision made clear yesterday, to make additional commitments to Afghanistan, but there clearly will be expectations that the allies must do more as well," he said.
Secretary Gates also says there are ways non-NATO nations can continue to help in Afghanistan, particularly by providing money to help pay for the army expansion and civilian development projects.
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Netanyahu Wins Key Backing in Israeli PM Contest
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465C:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Endorsement from far-right party leader appears to guarantee Benjamin Netanyahu a majority of seats in 120-member parliament Benjamin Netanyahu (File)Israeli President Shimon Peres is wrapping up consultations with political parties before he announces his decision on who will be Israel's next Prime Minister. Benjamin Netanyahu and his hawkish Likud Party got a boost in his bid to be the new Prime Minister Thursday by winning the backing of far-right politician Avigdor Lieberman. Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party came in third in the February 10 general elections, showing how much strength the right has gained in Israel. On Thursday, Lieberman threw his party's new strength, which now includes the 15 seats that Mr. Netanyahu would need to form a coalition government, behind Likud. He said that coalition should include the participation of Tzipi Livni's Kadima party. "Our main target today [is] to establish a unity government of three biggest parties," he said. "We give a recommendation for Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister, but it must be a unity government of three parties, Likud, Kadima, and Israel Beiteinu. I don't believe in any other possibility."
Voter concerns about security helped right win electionThe right's strong showing was fueled by voters' concerns over security at a time when Palestinian militants continue to strike from Gaza and Iran plows ahead with plans to develop its nuclear capabilities.In last week's election, Netanyahu's Likud Party came in second - just one parliamentary seat behind Livni's Kadima. The race was too close to call. The candidate whose party has a better chance of forming a coalition government with smaller parties is usually the one picked to be Prime Minister. That decision will be made by President Peres. He is expected to announce his pick soon. Mr. Peres began consultations on Wednesday after receiving official, final election results. His meetings continued into Thursday. "It is now the time to open a new chapter because there is a new chapter in world politics. And I wouldn't be prejudiced about any elected Israeli," he said. "Whoever was elected by the people will not be free from facing the call of the time."Mr. Netanyahu campaigned on promises to boost security and improve Israel's economy. He has pledged to focus less on negotiations with the Palestinians and concentrate more on shoring up the Palestinian economy. He has also called for toppling Hamas. Lieberman ran on a platform that calls for handing over control of Arab communities in Israel to the Palestinian authority in exchange for Jewish settlements in the West Bank, a measure that would effectively exclude many Arabs from Israel. He also wants Arab Israelis to be required to pledge loyalty to the Jewish State.
Israeli turn to right may cause problems with US relationsPolitical analysts say Israel's turn to the right may put it on a collision course with the new U.S. administration, which is still in the process of formulating its Middle East policy. A number of U.S. officials are planning visits to the region in the coming weeks, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.On Thursday, U.S. congressmen Brian Baird and Keith Ellison visited the Gaza Strip to get a look at U.N. operations following Israel's 22-day offensive on militants. Reports said Senator John Kerry, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations committee, was also due to be in Gaza.They planned no meetings with Hamas. Visits by U.S. government officials to Gaza are rare. The lawmakers went into the Strip despite a general security warning from the U.S. Department of State that urges Americans to avoid all travel to the Gaza Strip.
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Obama Heads to Ottawa for First Foreign Trip as President
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465D:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Economic issues to top agenda in series of meetings between US president and Canadian leadersPres. Obama steps out of his limousine before departure from Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, 18 Feb 2009U.S. President Barack Obama begins his first foreign trip since taking office when he heads to Canada on Thursday. White House officials said economic matters will top the agenda during President Obama's visit to Canada. It should come as no surprise because the U.S. and Canadian economies are deeply intertwined.Canada is America's largest trading partner - exceeding the U.S. trade relationships with China and the European Union. Canada is also the largest single exporter of oil and natural gas to the United States.That is why a statement by candidate Barack Obama last year, during the height of his bid for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination, created so much concern north of the border.NAFTA revisited
He raised the specter of renegotiating NAFTA - the North American Free Trade Agreement - with Canada and Mexico."I think we should use the hammer of a potential opt out as leverage to insure that we actually get labor and environmental standards that are enforced," he said.Since then, his comments on NAFTA have become more restrained. In an interview this week with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Obama said the United States respects its trade pacts. He said he simply wants to incorporate NAFTA side agreements on labor and the environment into the trade deal."What I have also said is that Canada is one of our most important trading partners; we rely on them heavily. There is $1.5 billion worth of trade going back and forth every day between the two countries and it is not in anybody's interest to see that trade diminish," he explained.That is welcome news to Canadian leaders, who have stressed that their country is a reliable source of energy for the United States in a sometimes turbulent world.
The environmental cost of Canada's crude
A June 25, 2008 aerial view of an area in Alberta, Canada, where the world's largest oil companies are building open pit mines to get at the oil sandsBut Canada's oil carries a big environmental price. Most of the heavy crude it sells to the United States comes from massive reserves in the western province of Alberta, where oil comes mixed with sand and clay. It is separated in a process that emits vast amounts of greenhouse gases.President Obama told the Canadian Broadcasting Company that the answer may be new technology."I think to the extent that Canada and the United States can collaborate on ways that we can sequester carbon, capture greenhouse gases before they are emitted into the atmosphere, that is going to be good for everybody," he said.Environmentalists, however, are urging President Obama to push for tough restrictions on the production of tar sands oil."Any kind of special exemption or protection that would be given for greenhouse gas regulations, especially for the expanding the tar sands industry, just seem to be totally at odds with the commitments that both of our countries have made to fight global warming," said Susan Casey-Lefkowitz, who is with the National Resources Defense Council.
Another sensitive issue: Afghanistan
Another sensitive issue on the agenda for the talks in the Canadian capital is Afghanistan.Canada has about 2,700 soldiers in the southern city of Kandahar whose mission is due to end in 2011.Inter-American relations specialist Peter DeShazo of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington said President Obama is not likely to ask Prime Minister Harper to reconsider."I am not sure that is an issue that is on the table. What will be of more concern to both sides is the current situation in Afghanistan and what needs to be done," he said.Stephen Harper (file)This will be President Obama's first face-to-face meeting with a foreign leader since his inauguration. And while he will discuss important matters with Prime Minister Harper, the session is primarily a chance for the two men to get acquainted.Ideologically, Mr. Harper, who heads the Conservative Party, might have had more in common with Mr. Obama's predecessor, George Bush. But analyst Peter DeShazo said the Canadian leader will likely find plenty of common ground with Barack Obama."The issues involved in the U.S.-Canadian relationship transcend politics on either side. And, therefore, progress in working those issues is important to both sides," he added.An image of US President Obama is taped to a lamppost near Parliament Hill, 18 Feb. 2009Mr. Obama will be in Ottawa for less than seven hours and it will be all business - a series of private meetings and a press conference.Security is expected to be high, with road closures and restrictions on air traffic. But large crowds are expected near Parliament Hill, where the events will take place. Recent public opinion polls in Canada have shown approval ratings of up to 86 percent for the new president of the United States.
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US Central Bank Chief Pledges Continuing Efforts to Restore Growth
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465E:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&But, Ben Bernanke expects unemployment rate to rise above eight percent before recession endsFederal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke speaks at the National Press Club in Washington, 18 Feb. 2009The head of the Federal Reserve,, Wednesday defended his actions over the past year that were aimed at restoring normal lending in the credit markets. Bernanke declined to make specific predictions, but was cautiously optimistic that an economic turnaround may begin this year.
In nationally televised remarks from Washington's National Press Club, Bernanke said he expected the unemployment rate to rise above eight percent before the recession ends. And while he made no prediction as to when the deep downturn will end, he did say that the combination of low interest rates and fiscal stimulus should be helpful.
"If we can take strong and aggressive action, including the Fed's actions to try to improve credit markets, I think we can break the back of this thing and that we will begin to see improvements in 2009. We fail to take adequate actions, the situation will continue to deteriorate. And unemployment would obviously be higher in that case," he said.
Bernanke answered questions following his talk. He repeated his strong belief that in a severe downturn like the current one it is vital to protect the financial system.
"We must continue the efforts to stabilize the banking system and the financial system. If we do not stabilize the financial system, then fiscal policy will not lead to a sustained recovery. Both of these parts are essential," he said.
Bernanke endorsed the fiscal stimulus program, worth nearly $800 billion, that was signed into law this week. He spoke as President Obama was unveiling his program to stabilize home prices which have declined over two years and stem the wave of foreclosures on owners who do not meet their mortgage payments.
The Federal Reserve is revising downwards its economic outlook to a possible three percent decline for 2009. Previously, the Fed had projected a recovery beginning after mid-2009.
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South Africa Struggles to Cope With Zimbabwe Refugees
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465F:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Many fleeing political repression, while others escaping effects of collapse of economy and public servicesZimbabweans rest in makeshift homes at showgrounds in Musina, 17 Dec 2008 The crisis in Zimbabwe has driven millions of its citizens to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Many are fleeing political repression, while others are escaping the effects of the collapse of the economy and public services. This has created headaches for South African officials who must cope with the influx. It is morning at the Musina town showgrounds, a cluster of brick buildings and sheds on a sprawling field meant to host agricultural fairs. Shelters made of cardboard and plastic sheeting are scattered across the grounds. Food in tin cans simmers over cooking fires.Thousands of people have gathered at a fence behind which stand a group of vans, a mobile registration center set up by the South African government.This is the first stop in South Africa for many of those fleeing the crisis in Zimbabwe.Mike Dziva, a 23-year-old mechanic, has made it inside the gate and is in line to register for political asylum. "I left Zimbabwe because there are some hard conditions," Dziva said. "One is due to political violence, political instability. And then health care is very poor. People are dying of cholera. Even education. The schools are closed until now." Refugees, mostly from Zimbabwe, stand outside the Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg, 30 June 2008 (file)Many refugees arrive with few or no possessions. They often are attacked by gangs, called gumaguma's, who roam the border area robbing and sometimes raping refugees.Seventeen-year-old Ray Shumba is one such victim."I was with my brother. So we went through the river and when we were coming through in Musina, we met some of the gumaguma's," Shumba said. "And they took all of our clothes and money, everything we had."Many applicants are desperate to get inside the fence and begin their registration. People caught without documents are picked up by the roving police vans and deported.The manager of the mobile registration center, Sakhile Dlalisa, says his staff can only handle 300 applications per day."We are under pressure because we are having nine officials working here," Dlalisa said. "If we had more capacity, having additional staff members and also resources, trucks and additional computers or work stations, we could process more."His staff has registered more than 60,000 people, mostly Zimbabweans, since the center was set up six months ago. But more than 2,000 applicants are still waiting to file and more arrive each day.Dlalisa says 95 percent of the Zimbabwean applicants are rejected because the South African government considers them to be economic migrants looking for a better life, rather than political refugees fleeing a repressive regime.But this does not deter them because they know that the rejection can be appealed. Many people, once they receive their papers, move on to major cities or farms in the interior. Often they seek relatives or friends who can help them.One of the most graphic signs of the Zimbabwean crisis is the epidemic of cholera, an easily preventable and treatable disease that has killed several thousand people in Zimbabwe in recent months.The disease has spread across the border with the refugees, infecting several thousand people in South Africa and killing more than 50.The Doctors Without Borders charity this week warned that the epidemic could spiral out of control in Zimbabwe. One of its physicians in Musina, Fabrizio Ferli, says cholera is still a threat in South Africa."The epidemic is not finished in Zimbabwe and it should not be considered finished in this area," Ferli said. "We are still seeing cholera cases here. We are taking samples and considering as cholera patients all the acute watery diarrhea we are finding here at the moment."He says cholera is the most visible sign of Zimbabwe's failed health services. There are also many cases of malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.Some refugees cross the border looking to further their education because most of Zimbabwe's schools are closed.Aid groups have placed 250 school-age children in local schools, but most go to informal classrooms in the camp with volunteer teachers.Aid workers say they are worried about 1,500 unaccompanied children with no family who are considered especially vulnerable to exploitation as child laborers or sex slaves. A young Zimbabwean boy eats a meal at the showgrounds in Musina, 17 Dec. 2008 Relief workers say they are surprised by the number of mothers with small children fleeing Zimbabwe. They care for these tiny refugees in special drop-in centers that are off-limits to others.Agnes Moyo has been bringing her six-month-old baby to the center after crossing the border with her husband and two other children. She says she left home after supporters of President Robert Mugabe's ZANU-PF Party badly beat her father. "I cannot go back to Zimbabwe because I cannot. I cannot because I have seen so many consequences, so I cannot go there," Moyo said.There is little food and most refugees sleep out in the open. It is a tough existence. But they get by on hope and survival skills. Whatever their reason for leaving home, virtually no one plans to return.
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Sufi Clerics in Somalia Support Unity Government
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264660:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Declaration raises possibility of a wider sectarian war between adherents of Sufi order and powerful al-Shabab groupSufi clerics in Somalia have declared their support for the new unity government led by a moderate Islamist. The declaration is raising the possibility of a wider sectarian war between adherents of the Sufi order and the powerful al-Shabab group in Somalia. President of Somalia Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, arrives at the UN compound in in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 01 Feb 2009Sufi clerics, meeting this week in the Somali capital Mogadishu, say they fully support the newly-elected president of Somalia, moderate Islamist Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed, and the efforts he is making to bring peace to the long-suffering country. The clerics spoke Wednesday through a group of adherents of the Sufi order, who recently took up arms against al-Shabab in Somalia. The spokesman for Ahlu-Sunna Wal-Jama'a, Sheik Abduqadir Mohamed Soomow, says the international community should be thanked for sponsoring last year's peace talks in Djibouti. The talks paved the way for the Ethiopian troop withdrawal from Somalia in January and allowed Sheik Sharif's Islamist-led opposition group to join the government.The cleric says Sufi scholars are calling on all Somalis to support the national unity government, which they hope will rule according to Islamic law and gain the support of the international community.Sufism, a mystic form of Islam, has centuries old roots in Somalia but is considered heretical by conservative factions of Islam, especially Salafism and Wahhabism. Since the fall of Somalia's last functioning government in 1991, Salafism and Wahhabism, taught in many Saudi-run mosques and religious schools in Mogadishu and elsewhere, have gained a following among many young Somalis. These Somalis make up the bulk of the al-Shabab, a militant group ideologically aligned with al-Qaida and vehemently opposed to Sheik Sharif's new western-backed government. Al-Shabab once functioned as the military wing of the Islamic Courts Union, an Islamist movement led by Sheik Sharif before he and other leaders were ousted from power by Ethiopia in late 2006.Al-Shabab grew powerful as an anti-Ethiopian insurgent group and took control of many parts of central and southern Somalia. In recent weeks, Sheik Sharif has reached out to the group, urging the leaders to reject extremism and to participate in rebuilding the country. Somalia observer for the International Crisis Group, Rashid Abdi, says although al-Shabab gained many recruits as an anti-Ethiopian insurgent group, many Somalis are now rejecting its militant brand of Islam in favor of Sheik Sharif's call for reconciliation. "It is undeniable that there is a great deal of opposition building against al-Shabab, especially from the traditional Muslim groups in Somalia," said Abdi. "There is a mobilization of various groupings of orthodox Sunni Muslims all over Somalia to form a broad front against al-Shabab."Recently, Ahlu-Sunna Wal-Jama'a scored military victories over al-Shabab in the central Somali Galgadud region, prompting fears that a wider conflict could erupt between the two groups. Abdi says if Sheik Sharif fails to bring al-Shabab to the negotiating table, a war may have to be fought to determine which version of Islam Somalis will embrace. "If these attempts at reconciliation collapse, then the prospect of a sectarian war happening in Somalia is real and that is definitely something to worry about," he said.Sheik Sharif has never spoken out against the Salafist-Wahhabist branches of Islam. But he is believed to be sympathetic to Ahlu-Sunna Wal-Jama'a and its cause.
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Plan to Auction Gandhi Belongings Draws Criticism in India
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264661:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Followers of country's independence leader Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi say sale of his items runs contrary to ideals espoused by one of greatest leaders of modern timesMohandas Gandhi (file photo)A planned auction of some belongings of India's independence leader, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, has drawn sharp criticism in India and a plea for them to be returned to the country. His followers say the sale of his items runs contrary to the ideals espoused by one of the great leader's of modern times. The items belonging to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, which are to go on the auction block next month in New York, include a pair of well-worn leather sandals, an inexpensive pocket watch, his trademark wire-frame spectacles and a brass bowl and plate.Gandhi is a national icon who led a peaceful independence struggle against British colonial rule. He inspired uncounted Indians to join a civil disobedience campaign. His philosophy of non-violence inspired several similar resistance movements.Items to be sold for private collectorThe auction house, Antiquorum Auctioneers, is selling Gandhi's items for a private foreign collector. It says the sale is significant because the ascetic leader had few possessions. Gandhi's followers in India say this is the very reason his belongings should not be sold for profit. They point out that Gandhi barely possessed anything, because he was a staunch opponent of materialism and consumerism. Ramachandra Rahi, secretary-general of the Gandhi Memorial Foundation in New Delhi, says it is ironic that a price is being put on the belongings of a man who preached the ideal of simple living. Rahi says in the market-oriented society that has emerged today, everything is for sale. He says this is particularly so in the United States, although the same is happening in India. Rahi says this is not correct. He says, if Gandhi is acknowledged as a great leader, his possessions should be put in museums anywhere in the world, so that future generations can draw inspiration from his life and ideals. The significance of what goes under the hammer has been underlined by the auction house. Gandhi gave his eyeglasses to an army colonel who asked him for inspiration, saying they were the "eyes" that had given him the vision to free India. He kept a watch because he valued punctuality. The brass plate and bowl were the dishes from which he ate a simple meal.Grandson says items should be displayed as natural treasuresGandhi's great grandson, Tushar Gandhi, says the items must come back to India and be displayed as national treasures. He has launched a campaign to raise money to bid for them at the auction. He says Gandhi holds a special place in the heart of Indians and that his belongings have a sentimental value for the country."These are the symbols of a person whom we have learnt to worship, and I think these things must be back in India so that generations to come will feel a closeness to him, will be inspired," Gandhi said. "Because, even today anywhere in the world, you draw a sketch of wire rimmed glasses and show it to anybody, and the first thing they will see is Gandhi. So, these are very closely connected with his identity and the rightful place for them is in India."Tushar Gandhi is racing against time to collect the money. The auction takes place in early March. But he says many people have responded to his plea and donated amounts ranging from one dollar to $2000. "People have come up to me and said we can only give you 50 rupees [one dollar] will you accept that? I think that is what is very important," Gandhi noted. "These ordinary people are going that extra bit…a driver, a farmer, an unemployed youth they all ask one question, they make one request. They say promise us you will bring this back."Several members of parliament have also called on the government to buy the relics.Rahi of Gandhi Memorial Foundation says the occasion of the auction of Gandhi's items is an appropriate time for the world to recall one of his messages.Gandhi had said the world has enough to satisfy every man's need, but not for every man's greed.Gandhi was killed by a Hindu fanatic in 1948, a year after India became independent.
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Geronimo Descendants Push for Return of Indian Chief's Remains
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264662:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Descendants of famous Apache Indian chief want remains returned to his birthplace in southwestern US for traditional burial Geronimo (Photo - US Archives)Descendants of the Apache chief, Geronimo, have announced a lawsuit to reclaim the remains of the famous Indian leader from a U.S. military burial site as well from the reportedly hidden tomb of a secret Yale University society.
The lawsuit, filed in U.S. federal court this week, marks the 100th anniversary of the Apache leader's death during the Indian wars. The suit, filed by 20 of Geronimo's blood relatives, names U.S. President Barack Obama and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates among its defendants saying that they are responsible for keeping Geronimo's remains at an army base in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
Geronimo's great-grandson Harlyn Geronimo, who is leading the efforts, has asked that the remains be released and returned to Geronimo's birthplace in the southwestern United States for a traditional Apache burial. "If our remains are not properly buried, in our tradition, the spirit is just wandering until a proper burial has been performed. The only way to put this to a closure is to release the remains and his spirit so that he can be taken back to his homeland on the Gila Mountains (Arizona-New Mexico)," he said.
The lawsuit also names the secret Yale University student society, Skull and Bones, in its case. The descendants cite long held claims that in 1918 three members of the group took bones and other items buried with Geronimo at Fort Sill and are holding them at the organization's headquarters in the eastern state of Connecticut.
Prescott Bush, the grandfather of former U.S. president George W. Bush was allegedly one of the men accused of stealing the items, but officials at Fort Sill have dismissed speculation that the grave was disturbed.
The group's lawyer, former attorney general Ramsey Clark, says the lawsuit will allow them to find out if the bones are in the group's possession. "It's a good time for them to come forward say yes, or no. If the answer is no then give us the evidence," he said.
Harlyn Geronimo says that he hopes the request for his ancestor's repatriation is taken under serious consideration by U.S. authorities. He says he has previously appealed to former President George W. Bush for help in the effort, but never received a reply. "I hope the people we actually filed on will take this seriously. I believe it's on their lap at this time to seriously consider our request to release the remains and perform our correct burial in the Gila wilderness," he said.
Geronimo was one of the last Native Americans to lead warriors in the fight against Mexican and American expansion into Apache lands. In 1886, he surrendered to the U.S. military on the understanding that he would be allowed to return to his homeland and tribe.
However, Geronimo was held for more than 20 years as a free-range prisoner of war in Fort Sill until his death from tuberculosis in 1909, at the age of 90.
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N. Korea Stresses War Readiness on Eve of Clinton Visit to South
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264659:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Clinton expected to discuss North Korea's apparent plans to test a long-range missile during her visit to South's capital, SeoulUS Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrives at military airport in Seongnam, south of Seoul, 19 Feb 2009North Korea says it is prepared for war, in the latest sharpening of its rhetoric against South Korea and the United States. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is expected to discuss the North's apparent plans to test a long-range missile during her visit to the South's capital. Thursday's statement from North Korea's official news agency warns South Korean leaders - who it calls a "group of traitors" - that the North's army is "fully ready for an all-out confrontation."Pyongyang also says South Korea and the United States will pay a "high price" for conducting joint military drills on the Korean peninsula next month, which the North views as a rehearsal for an invasion. American military leaders say Operation Key Reserve and Foal Eagle are a purely defensive drill held every year. About 28,000 U.S. forces are stationed in South Korea to deter any repeat of the North's 1950 invasion of the South. The latest threats come as experts warn North Korea could be days or weeks away from test-launching a ballistic missile possibly capable of reaching U.S. territory. North Korea hinted it would proceed with the launch this week, when it reasserted its right to "space development." Similar rhetoric preceded its 2006 test launch of a long range missile.South Korean Unification Minister Hyun In-taek told lawmakers, Thursday, a North Korean launch would not benefit the impoverished nation.He warns what he calls North Korea's unlawful action would lead to the country's further isolation.The possible launch, as well as efforts to get rid of North Korea's nuclear weapons, is expected to dominate talks between South Korean leaders and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Friday.Scott Snyder, director of the Center for U.S.-Korea policy, says there is plenty of buzz surrounding Clinton's visit."It's the first time in a long time that we've had a political secretary of state," Snyder said. "There's going to be a lot of interest in her, as a personality, here." Snyder says Clinton's main task will be to reassure South Korea that President Barack Obama is not neglecting the region's affairs. "It sort of seemed in the first few weeks that Asia was getting lost in the administration's agenda," Snyder said. "So, I think her visit has been a catalyst for recognition that issues like North Korea cannot be completely left off the table." Clinton is also scheduled to receive an honorary degree at a South Korean women's university, before departing for Beijing, Friday.
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China Ready to Host Secretary Clinton
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465A:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&US secretary of state arrives in Beijing FridaySecretary of State Clinton during her visit at ASEAN secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia, 18 Feb 2009 China is ready to host U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, whowill be making her first trip to Beijing in her new position. Secretary Clinton arrives in the Chinese capital, Friday. Mrs. Clinton chose to highlight climate change, among other issues,on her trip to Asia this week. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswomanJiang Yu said Thursday that China attaches great importance to theissue and hopes to strengthen Sino-American cooperation in addressingclimate change.Jiang says, despite the financial crisis, Chinaalready developed a national program against climate change and willcontinue to make unremitting efforts in this area.She also saysChina looks forward to progress at global climate treaty talks,scheduled for the end of the year in Copenhagen. China has passed theUnited States to become the world's leading emitter of greenhouse gases.Althoughclimate change is a likely topic of discussion for Clinton's Beijingvisit, many China analysts say her trip will be judged more on tonethan actual content. Chinese officials are hoping relations willcontinue in the non-confrontational spirit of the George W. Bushadministration. Clinton, herself, has advocated a "positiveand cooperative" relationship with Beijing. In a speech at the AsiaSociety in New York, last weekend, she said Washington has a very broadagenda when it comes to China.One topic likely to be addressedduring her visit is Taiwan. China views cross-straits relations as oneof the most important aspects of U.S.-China ties. Spokeswoman Jiangsays Beijing hopes the United States will stay committed to the OneChina principle.The undecided fate of 17 Uighur detainees, whowere cleared for release from Guantanamo Bay, may also be raised inSecretary Clinton's talks with her Chinese counterparts. AlthoughBeijing wants the men to be returned for trial, the United States hasnot agreed to send them to China, fearing they may be persecuted.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang YuSpokeswomanJiang says China wants the men to be prosecuted in China, because theyare members of the East Turkestan terrorist organization, which is on asanction list of the U.N. Security Council.Jiang says China is against any country accepting the Chinese Muslim detainees.Someof the 17 Uighur detainees were cleared for release as early as 2003,but have continued to be held because no other country agreed to takethem. Wednesday, a U.S. appeals court in Washington overturned aruling that would have released the men into the United States.In 2006, Albania accepted five other Uighur men who were released from Guantanamo Bay.
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Gates Says NATO Help in Afghanistan May Be Largely Civilian
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465B:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&US defense chief says, in long term, allies are more likely to provide civilian help to Afghan government than additional troops Defense Secretary Robert Gates (File) The day after President Obama approved the deployment of 17,000 additional U.S. troops for Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said he will ask NATO allies to also send more troops to help provide security for the country's presidential and provincial elections, scheduled for August. But the secretary says in the long term the allies are more likely to provide civilian help to the Afghan government than additional troops.
Gates spoke on his way to Krakow, Poland for a meeting of NATO defense ministers.
The secretary's emphasis on civilian help from NATO reflects the recognition in the U.S. government that the allies have provided just about all the troops they are willing to provide, currently about 32,000. Gates says he still wants more NATO troops for the elections in August, for which he says the commitment has been disappointing, but he says those may be short-term deployments.
"We really need additional help on the civilian side, there needs to be a strengthening on the civilian side, as we are strengthening on the military side. And frankly I think that it may be, I hope that it may be, easier for our allies to do that than significant troop increases, especially for the longer term," he said.
Secretary Gates says the NATO civilians can help on projects related to improving the performance of the Afghan government, improving the legal system and fighting corruption and the drug trade.
He also called on NATO members to send more military trainers to Afghanistan to help the effort to increase the size of the country's army to 134,000. The Afghanistan war is not popular in many NATO countries, and many leaders are concerned that sending more troops, who could potentially suffer more casualties, would hurt them with voters, or even bring down their coalitions.
President Obama has ordered a senior-level Afghanistan strategy review, with the results expected before he meets with his NATO counterparts at their summit at the beginning of April. But on Tuesday the president approved the deployment of 17,000 more U.S. troops, which will bring the total U.S. commitment to about 55,000 by June.
Secretary Gates says the troops are needed to improve security, regardless of exactly what strategy the president adopts.
"I think that these additional numbers give us a better chance to provide the kind of security for the population that is necessary, frankly, for economic development and for governance to take hold, and so on," he said.
But the secretary says how long the troops stay, and whether they are replaced when their tours of duty end, will depend on the outcome of the strategy review. He also says the deployments will result in a reduction of the U.S. troop presence in Iraq, because some of the units being sent to Afghanistan had been scheduled for Iraq deployments.
Secretary Gates is the only member of the cabinet of former-President George W. Bush asked to stay on by President Obama, and the Krakow meeting Thursday and Friday is the first time the secretary is meeting with his NATO colleagues since the change of U.S. administrations a month ago. He said he is bringing new message.
"The message is that it is a new administration. And the administration is prepared, as the president's decision made clear yesterday, to make additional commitments to Afghanistan, but there clearly will be expectations that the allies must do more as well," he said.
Secretary Gates also says there are ways non-NATO nations can continue to help in Afghanistan, particularly by providing money to help pay for the army expansion and civilian development projects.
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Netanyahu Wins Key Backing in Israeli PM Contest
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465C:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Endorsement from far-right party leader appears to guarantee Benjamin Netanyahu a majority of seats in 120-member parliament Benjamin Netanyahu (File)Israeli President Shimon Peres is wrapping up consultations with political parties before he announces his decision on who will be Israel's next Prime Minister. Benjamin Netanyahu and his hawkish Likud Party got a boost in his bid to be the new Prime Minister Thursday by winning the backing of far-right politician Avigdor Lieberman. Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party came in third in the February 10 general elections, showing how much strength the right has gained in Israel. On Thursday, Lieberman threw his party's new strength, which now includes the 15 seats that Mr. Netanyahu would need to form a coalition government, behind Likud. He said that coalition should include the participation of Tzipi Livni's Kadima party. "Our main target today [is] to establish a unity government of three biggest parties," he said. "We give a recommendation for Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister, but it must be a unity government of three parties, Likud, Kadima, and Israel Beiteinu. I don't believe in any other possibility."
Voter concerns about security helped right win electionThe right's strong showing was fueled by voters' concerns over security at a time when Palestinian militants continue to strike from Gaza and Iran plows ahead with plans to develop its nuclear capabilities.In last week's election, Netanyahu's Likud Party came in second - just one parliamentary seat behind Livni's Kadima. The race was too close to call. The candidate whose party has a better chance of forming a coalition government with smaller parties is usually the one picked to be Prime Minister. That decision will be made by President Peres. He is expected to announce his pick soon. Mr. Peres began consultations on Wednesday after receiving official, final election results. His meetings continued into Thursday. "It is now the time to open a new chapter because there is a new chapter in world politics. And I wouldn't be prejudiced about any elected Israeli," he said. "Whoever was elected by the people will not be free from facing the call of the time."Mr. Netanyahu campaigned on promises to boost security and improve Israel's economy. He has pledged to focus less on negotiations with the Palestinians and concentrate more on shoring up the Palestinian economy. He has also called for toppling Hamas. Lieberman ran on a platform that calls for handing over control of Arab communities in Israel to the Palestinian authority in exchange for Jewish settlements in the West Bank, a measure that would effectively exclude many Arabs from Israel. He also wants Arab Israelis to be required to pledge loyalty to the Jewish State.
Israeli turn to right may cause problems with US relationsPolitical analysts say Israel's turn to the right may put it on a collision course with the new U.S. administration, which is still in the process of formulating its Middle East policy. A number of U.S. officials are planning visits to the region in the coming weeks, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.On Thursday, U.S. congressmen Brian Baird and Keith Ellison visited the Gaza Strip to get a look at U.N. operations following Israel's 22-day offensive on militants. Reports said Senator John Kerry, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations committee, was also due to be in Gaza.They planned no meetings with Hamas. Visits by U.S. government officials to Gaza are rare. The lawmakers went into the Strip despite a general security warning from the U.S. Department of State that urges Americans to avoid all travel to the Gaza Strip.
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Obama Heads to Ottawa for First Foreign Trip as President
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465D:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Economic issues to top agenda in series of meetings between US president and Canadian leadersPres. Obama steps out of his limousine before departure from Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, 18 Feb 2009U.S. President Barack Obama begins his first foreign trip since taking office when he heads to Canada on Thursday. White House officials said economic matters will top the agenda during President Obama's visit to Canada. It should come as no surprise because the U.S. and Canadian economies are deeply intertwined.Canada is America's largest trading partner - exceeding the U.S. trade relationships with China and the European Union. Canada is also the largest single exporter of oil and natural gas to the United States.That is why a statement by candidate Barack Obama last year, during the height of his bid for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination, created so much concern north of the border.NAFTA revisited
He raised the specter of renegotiating NAFTA - the North American Free Trade Agreement - with Canada and Mexico."I think we should use the hammer of a potential opt out as leverage to insure that we actually get labor and environmental standards that are enforced," he said.Since then, his comments on NAFTA have become more restrained. In an interview this week with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Obama said the United States respects its trade pacts. He said he simply wants to incorporate NAFTA side agreements on labor and the environment into the trade deal."What I have also said is that Canada is one of our most important trading partners; we rely on them heavily. There is $1.5 billion worth of trade going back and forth every day between the two countries and it is not in anybody's interest to see that trade diminish," he explained.That is welcome news to Canadian leaders, who have stressed that their country is a reliable source of energy for the United States in a sometimes turbulent world.
The environmental cost of Canada's crude
A June 25, 2008 aerial view of an area in Alberta, Canada, where the world's largest oil companies are building open pit mines to get at the oil sandsBut Canada's oil carries a big environmental price. Most of the heavy crude it sells to the United States comes from massive reserves in the western province of Alberta, where oil comes mixed with sand and clay. It is separated in a process that emits vast amounts of greenhouse gases.President Obama told the Canadian Broadcasting Company that the answer may be new technology."I think to the extent that Canada and the United States can collaborate on ways that we can sequester carbon, capture greenhouse gases before they are emitted into the atmosphere, that is going to be good for everybody," he said.Environmentalists, however, are urging President Obama to push for tough restrictions on the production of tar sands oil."Any kind of special exemption or protection that would be given for greenhouse gas regulations, especially for the expanding the tar sands industry, just seem to be totally at odds with the commitments that both of our countries have made to fight global warming," said Susan Casey-Lefkowitz, who is with the National Resources Defense Council.
Another sensitive issue: Afghanistan
Another sensitive issue on the agenda for the talks in the Canadian capital is Afghanistan.Canada has about 2,700 soldiers in the southern city of Kandahar whose mission is due to end in 2011.Inter-American relations specialist Peter DeShazo of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington said President Obama is not likely to ask Prime Minister Harper to reconsider."I am not sure that is an issue that is on the table. What will be of more concern to both sides is the current situation in Afghanistan and what needs to be done," he said.Stephen Harper (file)This will be President Obama's first face-to-face meeting with a foreign leader since his inauguration. And while he will discuss important matters with Prime Minister Harper, the session is primarily a chance for the two men to get acquainted.Ideologically, Mr. Harper, who heads the Conservative Party, might have had more in common with Mr. Obama's predecessor, George Bush. But analyst Peter DeShazo said the Canadian leader will likely find plenty of common ground with Barack Obama."The issues involved in the U.S.-Canadian relationship transcend politics on either side. And, therefore, progress in working those issues is important to both sides," he added.An image of US President Obama is taped to a lamppost near Parliament Hill, 18 Feb. 2009Mr. Obama will be in Ottawa for less than seven hours and it will be all business - a series of private meetings and a press conference.Security is expected to be high, with road closures and restrictions on air traffic. But large crowds are expected near Parliament Hill, where the events will take place. Recent public opinion polls in Canada have shown approval ratings of up to 86 percent for the new president of the United States.
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US Central Bank Chief Pledges Continuing Efforts to Restore Growth
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465E:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&But, Ben Bernanke expects unemployment rate to rise above eight percent before recession endsFederal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke speaks at the National Press Club in Washington, 18 Feb. 2009The head of the Federal Reserve,, Wednesday defended his actions over the past year that were aimed at restoring normal lending in the credit markets. Bernanke declined to make specific predictions, but was cautiously optimistic that an economic turnaround may begin this year.
In nationally televised remarks from Washington's National Press Club, Bernanke said he expected the unemployment rate to rise above eight percent before the recession ends. And while he made no prediction as to when the deep downturn will end, he did say that the combination of low interest rates and fiscal stimulus should be helpful.
"If we can take strong and aggressive action, including the Fed's actions to try to improve credit markets, I think we can break the back of this thing and that we will begin to see improvements in 2009. We fail to take adequate actions, the situation will continue to deteriorate. And unemployment would obviously be higher in that case," he said.
Bernanke answered questions following his talk. He repeated his strong belief that in a severe downturn like the current one it is vital to protect the financial system.
"We must continue the efforts to stabilize the banking system and the financial system. If we do not stabilize the financial system, then fiscal policy will not lead to a sustained recovery. Both of these parts are essential," he said.
Bernanke endorsed the fiscal stimulus program, worth nearly $800 billion, that was signed into law this week. He spoke as President Obama was unveiling his program to stabilize home prices which have declined over two years and stem the wave of foreclosures on owners who do not meet their mortgage payments.
The Federal Reserve is revising downwards its economic outlook to a possible three percent decline for 2009. Previously, the Fed had projected a recovery beginning after mid-2009.
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South Africa Struggles to Cope With Zimbabwe Refugees
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=226465F:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Many fleeing political repression, while others escaping effects of collapse of economy and public servicesZimbabweans rest in makeshift homes at showgrounds in Musina, 17 Dec 2008 The crisis in Zimbabwe has driven millions of its citizens to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Many are fleeing political repression, while others are escaping the effects of the collapse of the economy and public services. This has created headaches for South African officials who must cope with the influx. It is morning at the Musina town showgrounds, a cluster of brick buildings and sheds on a sprawling field meant to host agricultural fairs. Shelters made of cardboard and plastic sheeting are scattered across the grounds. Food in tin cans simmers over cooking fires.Thousands of people have gathered at a fence behind which stand a group of vans, a mobile registration center set up by the South African government.This is the first stop in South Africa for many of those fleeing the crisis in Zimbabwe.Mike Dziva, a 23-year-old mechanic, has made it inside the gate and is in line to register for political asylum. "I left Zimbabwe because there are some hard conditions," Dziva said. "One is due to political violence, political instability. And then health care is very poor. People are dying of cholera. Even education. The schools are closed until now." Refugees, mostly from Zimbabwe, stand outside the Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg, 30 June 2008 (file)Many refugees arrive with few or no possessions. They often are attacked by gangs, called gumaguma's, who roam the border area robbing and sometimes raping refugees.Seventeen-year-old Ray Shumba is one such victim."I was with my brother. So we went through the river and when we were coming through in Musina, we met some of the gumaguma's," Shumba said. "And they took all of our clothes and money, everything we had."Many applicants are desperate to get inside the fence and begin their registration. People caught without documents are picked up by the roving police vans and deported.The manager of the mobile registration center, Sakhile Dlalisa, says his staff can only handle 300 applications per day."We are under pressure because we are having nine officials working here," Dlalisa said. "If we had more capacity, having additional staff members and also resources, trucks and additional computers or work stations, we could process more."His staff has registered more than 60,000 people, mostly Zimbabweans, since the center was set up six months ago. But more than 2,000 applicants are still waiting to file and more arrive each day.Dlalisa says 95 percent of the Zimbabwean applicants are rejected because the South African government considers them to be economic migrants looking for a better life, rather than political refugees fleeing a repressive regime.But this does not deter them because they know that the rejection can be appealed. Many people, once they receive their papers, move on to major cities or farms in the interior. Often they seek relatives or friends who can help them.One of the most graphic signs of the Zimbabwean crisis is the epidemic of cholera, an easily preventable and treatable disease that has killed several thousand people in Zimbabwe in recent months.The disease has spread across the border with the refugees, infecting several thousand people in South Africa and killing more than 50.The Doctors Without Borders charity this week warned that the epidemic could spiral out of control in Zimbabwe. One of its physicians in Musina, Fabrizio Ferli, says cholera is still a threat in South Africa."The epidemic is not finished in Zimbabwe and it should not be considered finished in this area," Ferli said. "We are still seeing cholera cases here. We are taking samples and considering as cholera patients all the acute watery diarrhea we are finding here at the moment."He says cholera is the most visible sign of Zimbabwe's failed health services. There are also many cases of malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.Some refugees cross the border looking to further their education because most of Zimbabwe's schools are closed.Aid groups have placed 250 school-age children in local schools, but most go to informal classrooms in the camp with volunteer teachers.Aid workers say they are worried about 1,500 unaccompanied children with no family who are considered especially vulnerable to exploitation as child laborers or sex slaves. A young Zimbabwean boy eats a meal at the showgrounds in Musina, 17 Dec. 2008 Relief workers say they are surprised by the number of mothers with small children fleeing Zimbabwe. They care for these tiny refugees in special drop-in centers that are off-limits to others.Agnes Moyo has been bringing her six-month-old baby to the center after crossing the border with her husband and two other children. She says she left home after supporters of President Robert Mugabe's ZANU-PF Party badly beat her father. "I cannot go back to Zimbabwe because I cannot. I cannot because I have seen so many consequences, so I cannot go there," Moyo said.There is little food and most refugees sleep out in the open. It is a tough existence. But they get by on hope and survival skills. Whatever their reason for leaving home, virtually no one plans to return.
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Sufi Clerics in Somalia Support Unity Government
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264660:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Declaration raises possibility of a wider sectarian war between adherents of Sufi order and powerful al-Shabab groupSufi clerics in Somalia have declared their support for the new unity government led by a moderate Islamist. The declaration is raising the possibility of a wider sectarian war between adherents of the Sufi order and the powerful al-Shabab group in Somalia. President of Somalia Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, arrives at the UN compound in in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 01 Feb 2009Sufi clerics, meeting this week in the Somali capital Mogadishu, say they fully support the newly-elected president of Somalia, moderate Islamist Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed, and the efforts he is making to bring peace to the long-suffering country. The clerics spoke Wednesday through a group of adherents of the Sufi order, who recently took up arms against al-Shabab in Somalia. The spokesman for Ahlu-Sunna Wal-Jama'a, Sheik Abduqadir Mohamed Soomow, says the international community should be thanked for sponsoring last year's peace talks in Djibouti. The talks paved the way for the Ethiopian troop withdrawal from Somalia in January and allowed Sheik Sharif's Islamist-led opposition group to join the government.The cleric says Sufi scholars are calling on all Somalis to support the national unity government, which they hope will rule according to Islamic law and gain the support of the international community.Sufism, a mystic form of Islam, has centuries old roots in Somalia but is considered heretical by conservative factions of Islam, especially Salafism and Wahhabism. Since the fall of Somalia's last functioning government in 1991, Salafism and Wahhabism, taught in many Saudi-run mosques and religious schools in Mogadishu and elsewhere, have gained a following among many young Somalis. These Somalis make up the bulk of the al-Shabab, a militant group ideologically aligned with al-Qaida and vehemently opposed to Sheik Sharif's new western-backed government. Al-Shabab once functioned as the military wing of the Islamic Courts Union, an Islamist movement led by Sheik Sharif before he and other leaders were ousted from power by Ethiopia in late 2006.Al-Shabab grew powerful as an anti-Ethiopian insurgent group and took control of many parts of central and southern Somalia. In recent weeks, Sheik Sharif has reached out to the group, urging the leaders to reject extremism and to participate in rebuilding the country. Somalia observer for the International Crisis Group, Rashid Abdi, says although al-Shabab gained many recruits as an anti-Ethiopian insurgent group, many Somalis are now rejecting its militant brand of Islam in favor of Sheik Sharif's call for reconciliation. "It is undeniable that there is a great deal of opposition building against al-Shabab, especially from the traditional Muslim groups in Somalia," said Abdi. "There is a mobilization of various groupings of orthodox Sunni Muslims all over Somalia to form a broad front against al-Shabab."Recently, Ahlu-Sunna Wal-Jama'a scored military victories over al-Shabab in the central Somali Galgadud region, prompting fears that a wider conflict could erupt between the two groups. Abdi says if Sheik Sharif fails to bring al-Shabab to the negotiating table, a war may have to be fought to determine which version of Islam Somalis will embrace. "If these attempts at reconciliation collapse, then the prospect of a sectarian war happening in Somalia is real and that is definitely something to worry about," he said.Sheik Sharif has never spoken out against the Salafist-Wahhabist branches of Islam. But he is believed to be sympathetic to Ahlu-Sunna Wal-Jama'a and its cause.
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Plan to Auction Gandhi Belongings Draws Criticism in India
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264661:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Followers of country's independence leader Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi say sale of his items runs contrary to ideals espoused by one of greatest leaders of modern timesMohandas Gandhi (file photo)A planned auction of some belongings of India's independence leader, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, has drawn sharp criticism in India and a plea for them to be returned to the country. His followers say the sale of his items runs contrary to the ideals espoused by one of the great leader's of modern times. The items belonging to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, which are to go on the auction block next month in New York, include a pair of well-worn leather sandals, an inexpensive pocket watch, his trademark wire-frame spectacles and a brass bowl and plate.Gandhi is a national icon who led a peaceful independence struggle against British colonial rule. He inspired uncounted Indians to join a civil disobedience campaign. His philosophy of non-violence inspired several similar resistance movements.Items to be sold for private collectorThe auction house, Antiquorum Auctioneers, is selling Gandhi's items for a private foreign collector. It says the sale is significant because the ascetic leader had few possessions. Gandhi's followers in India say this is the very reason his belongings should not be sold for profit. They point out that Gandhi barely possessed anything, because he was a staunch opponent of materialism and consumerism. Ramachandra Rahi, secretary-general of the Gandhi Memorial Foundation in New Delhi, says it is ironic that a price is being put on the belongings of a man who preached the ideal of simple living. Rahi says in the market-oriented society that has emerged today, everything is for sale. He says this is particularly so in the United States, although the same is happening in India. Rahi says this is not correct. He says, if Gandhi is acknowledged as a great leader, his possessions should be put in museums anywhere in the world, so that future generations can draw inspiration from his life and ideals. The significance of what goes under the hammer has been underlined by the auction house. Gandhi gave his eyeglasses to an army colonel who asked him for inspiration, saying they were the "eyes" that had given him the vision to free India. He kept a watch because he valued punctuality. The brass plate and bowl were the dishes from which he ate a simple meal.Grandson says items should be displayed as natural treasuresGandhi's great grandson, Tushar Gandhi, says the items must come back to India and be displayed as national treasures. He has launched a campaign to raise money to bid for them at the auction. He says Gandhi holds a special place in the heart of Indians and that his belongings have a sentimental value for the country."These are the symbols of a person whom we have learnt to worship, and I think these things must be back in India so that generations to come will feel a closeness to him, will be inspired," Gandhi said. "Because, even today anywhere in the world, you draw a sketch of wire rimmed glasses and show it to anybody, and the first thing they will see is Gandhi. So, these are very closely connected with his identity and the rightful place for them is in India."Tushar Gandhi is racing against time to collect the money. The auction takes place in early March. But he says many people have responded to his plea and donated amounts ranging from one dollar to $2000. "People have come up to me and said we can only give you 50 rupees [one dollar] will you accept that? I think that is what is very important," Gandhi noted. "These ordinary people are going that extra bit…a driver, a farmer, an unemployed youth they all ask one question, they make one request. They say promise us you will bring this back."Several members of parliament have also called on the government to buy the relics.Rahi of Gandhi Memorial Foundation says the occasion of the auction of Gandhi's items is an appropriate time for the world to recall one of his messages.Gandhi had said the world has enough to satisfy every man's need, but not for every man's greed.Gandhi was killed by a Hindu fanatic in 1948, a year after India became independent.
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Geronimo Descendants Push for Return of Indian Chief's Remains
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=2264662:0673F01FC370757F04B8323BA74B02B030EB2FA2E66CBB22&Descendants of famous Apache Indian chief want remains returned to his birthplace in southwestern US for traditional burial Geronimo (Photo - US Archives)Descendants of the Apache chief, Geronimo, have announced a lawsuit to reclaim the remains of the famous Indian leader from a U.S. military burial site as well from the reportedly hidden tomb of a secret Yale University society.
The lawsuit, filed in U.S. federal court this week, marks the 100th anniversary of the Apache leader's death during the Indian wars. The suit, filed by 20 of Geronimo's blood relatives, names U.S. President Barack Obama and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates among its defendants saying that they are responsible for keeping Geronimo's remains at an army base in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
Geronimo's great-grandson Harlyn Geronimo, who is leading the efforts, has asked that the remains be released and returned to Geronimo's birthplace in the southwestern United States for a traditional Apache burial. "If our remains are not properly buried, in our tradition, the spirit is just wandering until a proper burial has been performed. The only way to put this to a closure is to release the remains and his spirit so that he can be taken back to his homeland on the Gila Mountains (Arizona-New Mexico)," he said.
The lawsuit also names the secret Yale University student society, Skull and Bones, in its case. The descendants cite long held claims that in 1918 three members of the group took bones and other items buried with Geronimo at Fort Sill and are holding them at the organization's headquarters in the eastern state of Connecticut.
Prescott Bush, the grandfather of former U.S. president George W. Bush was allegedly one of the men accused of stealing the items, but officials at Fort Sill have dismissed speculation that the grave was disturbed.
The group's lawyer, former attorney general Ramsey Clark, says the lawsuit will allow them to find out if the bones are in the group's possession. "It's a good time for them to come forward say yes, or no. If the answer is no then give us the evidence," he said.
Harlyn Geronimo says that he hopes the request for his ancestor's repatriation is taken under serious consideration by U.S. authorities. He says he has previously appealed to former President George W. Bush for help in the effort, but never received a reply. "I hope the people we actually filed on will take this seriously. I believe it's on their lap at this time to seriously consider our request to release the remains and perform our correct burial in the Gila wilderness," he said.
Geronimo was one of the last Native Americans to lead warriors in the fight against Mexican and American expansion into Apache lands. In 1886, he surrendered to the U.S. military on the understanding that he would be allowed to return to his homeland and tribe.
However, Geronimo was held for more than 20 years as a free-range prisoner of war in Fort Sill until his death from tuberculosis in 1909, at the age of 90.
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