My blog posts are piling up, though it won't be the first time I have presented things out of order- or left big gaping holes altogether in the order of events (yes, I know what things are missing. Maybe it will make the book. We call it the black hole- events that rank off the emotional chart and therefore just get dumped into the universe's ' not to be discussed' chasm.)
Most recent and most pressing------ elections. Kinshasa is facing her own election woes as Kabila fights to retain his coveted position. His attempt to change the constitution was an early veto by international and internal parties. He then proceeded to find a loophole in requiring a census before elections, which could take from 3-4 years, thereby extending his rule. Congolese took to the streets to express their opinion of this, losing life but remaining strong. Reaction from the government included firing live bullets on unarmed crowds, shutting down internet and SMS messaging and their other usual bullying tactics. With elections scheduled for 2016, it seems the turmoil is just beginning.
Ivory Coast is going through her own elections woes. Though candidacy seems on the down low for now, apparently prospective presidents have their eyes on a different method of securing the desired post. The boys have been terrified at school by talk of kidnappings. Notices have come home informing parents of changes in protocol and emphasizing the need for "the card." Abidjan has a thorough system of requiring adults who are authorized to pick up students to have a laminated card complete with photos of the adult and the child. Students can no longer leave campus grounds during recreation to buy snacks or lunch and even the mid day "car" <bus> has been suspended. Buy your lunch at school, bring one from home or go hungry.
While presidential candidates may not yet announce their hopeful bid, it seems many have placed their faith in human sacrifice to ensure a win. The news reports 20 children kidnapped and sacrificed but word on the street places the number at more than 26. Including a recent nounou (nanny) and her 2 charges. In broad daylight. It's led to strong responses by citizens, albeit not always the best response. Mohamed's teachers have recounted tales of helping children cross the street or accompanying their own children by bicycle only to be threatened by crowds of accusing on lookers. Proceed with caution is the word all around. Elections are scheduled for October.
Nothing is certain, as some suggest Ouattara will simply cancel elections. African presidents are gifted at finding just the right reason for delaying, changing or evading the elections process and it wouldn't be at all surprising if 'something came up' to get in the way of this year's vote. What remains ever uncertain is the people's response.
And me? Keeping mes tres cheres tres proches.
