Athens - A radical left-wing group Wednesday threatened to target politicians and journalists in a proclamation sent to a newspaper following the killing of an anti-terrorism policeman last week.
In the nine-page document sent to the Greek daily Ta Nea, the militant group Rebel Sect (also known to some as the Sect of Revolutionaries) claimed responsibility for killing the officer, the worst attack since riots rocked the country in December.
"We will strike against all mechanisms of domination, institutions and their representatives," Ta Nea quoted Rebel Sect as saying, who for the first time marked the electronic document with their seal - two guns with a black star in the middle.
"The list is large and we will hit without end," said the group, quoting Mao and Lenin.
The 41-year-old officer was shot several times at close range in the central Athens district of Ano Patissia last Wednesday while guarding a witness involved in a case against the now inactive leftist guerrilla group, People's Revolutionary Struggle.
The officer died immediately while the attackers fled on motorcycle.
Rebel Sect emerged in February with a gun-and-grenade attack on an Athens police station.
Greece has been plagued by daily bombings and arson attacks targeting banks and multinational businesses since police shot a teenager in December. The shooting sparked the worst riots the country has seen in decades.
The violence that was being orchestrated by left-wing and anarchist groups has embarrassed Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis' government, which has been criticized for its inability to protect the public.
The government has vowed to crack down on the increasing violence against police, political and business targets and has sought advice from Britain's Scotland Yard.
--Mainstream Media News Source from eKathemerini--
The members of the terrorist group Sect of Revolutionaries, which claimed last week’s murder of an anti-terrorist officer, see themselves as the successors of the most extreme elements of the Revolutionary Popular Struggle (ELA), one of the largest urban guerrilla groups ever to operate in Greece, according to officers who have been analyzing a proclamation published in Ta Nea newspaper yesterday.
Sources told Kathimerini yesterday that references to fringe groups, which experts believe made up the most extreme wing of ELA, suggest that the members of the Sect of Revolutionaries believe they are continuing ELA’s work.
“We do not seek their historical justification but to continue and surpass what they achieved,” the proclamation read.
ELA was formed in 1971 in opposition to the military junta but carried on committing terrorist acts until 1995.
Nektarios Savvas, the officer killed last week, was guarding a female witness in the appeals hearing of convicted members of the group. The proclamation warned that if she continued to give evidence or if “she continues with her delusions and lies,” as the proclamation put it, the terrorists would “pull out her tongue at the root.”
The proclamation threatened the same action against anyone else testifying in the case and said that it would treat any witnesses to last week’s shooting as targets.
Sources said that officers believe the members of the Sect of Revolutionaries are Exarchia-based anarchists who have swapped Molotov cocktails for guns. In their proclamation, they make no attempt to justify their actions politically, instead presenting terrorism as an end in itself. “We are realists and we are happy that we do not have to defend the vision and hope for a better world,” they said in their message.
Original Source (with sources of its own)
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
The Cost of the British Monarchy
According to accounts published on Monday, the public funding (taxpayers' money) for Queen (pig) Elizabeth II and the Royal Family of the UK has increased by $2.48 million (1.5 million pounds) since last year. This year the Royal Family's total plunder of the British taxpayers was $68.6 million (41.5 million pounds).
Royal travel expenses rose to $10.76 million (6.5 million pounds) from $10.26 million (6.2 million pounds). She used an extra $9.9 million (6 million pounds) from a reserve fund. Experts say she will not have any funds by 2012 if she keeps spending money from her reserve fund like this.
British lawmakers say the Queen will negotiate her budget in 2010, and she will most likely ask for more money!
"Very obviously they have no regard for public finances at all. There's no reason why the queen can't be paid a salary and a few million be spent on the staff," Graham Smith, campaign manager for the anti-monarchy group called Republic, said.
The British Monarchy is nothing more than a family of glorified advisers and celebrities. Very few, if any, advisers are as well funded as the Royal Family, and rightfully so. These shriveled-up relics from an outmoded society have no business sucking up all of the British people's hard-earned money. If the British Monarchy was given a budget slash, or better yet, sent the way of the Russian Czar, then the UK would have millions of dollars to invest into the underdeveloped and underfunded areas or programs of the country.
The British conservatives (especially the BNP), from what I've seen, like to complain about people who are living off of money from the government (welfare, if you will). Yet, I haven't once heard them complain about the Royal Parasites. Queen Elizabeth II is the ultimate "welfare queen"! Down with the Royal Family!
Royal travel expenses rose to $10.76 million (6.5 million pounds) from $10.26 million (6.2 million pounds). She used an extra $9.9 million (6 million pounds) from a reserve fund. Experts say she will not have any funds by 2012 if she keeps spending money from her reserve fund like this.
British lawmakers say the Queen will negotiate her budget in 2010, and she will most likely ask for more money!
"Very obviously they have no regard for public finances at all. There's no reason why the queen can't be paid a salary and a few million be spent on the staff," Graham Smith, campaign manager for the anti-monarchy group called Republic, said.
The British Monarchy is nothing more than a family of glorified advisers and celebrities. Very few, if any, advisers are as well funded as the Royal Family, and rightfully so. These shriveled-up relics from an outmoded society have no business sucking up all of the British people's hard-earned money. If the British Monarchy was given a budget slash, or better yet, sent the way of the Russian Czar, then the UK would have millions of dollars to invest into the underdeveloped and underfunded areas or programs of the country.
The British conservatives (especially the BNP), from what I've seen, like to complain about people who are living off of money from the government (welfare, if you will). Yet, I haven't once heard them complain about the Royal Parasites. Queen Elizabeth II is the ultimate "welfare queen"! Down with the Royal Family!
North Korean economy sees growth
Analysts expect sanctions over nuclear tests will dent North Korea's economy.
North Korea's economy expanded in 2008, thanks to high agricultural yields after contracting for two years in a row, South Korea's central bank says.
Last year the North Korean economy grew 3.7% compared to a year earlier, after shrinking by 2.3% in 2007 and by 1.1% in 2006.
The central bank said "temporary" factors, such as good weather, had helped boost agricultural production.
Despite the growth, the size of the economy is a fraction of South Korea's.
Agricultural production rose nearly 11% in 2008 compared with 2007. And coal, iron ore and other mineral production grew 2.3% for the year.
A deal agreed in 2007 gave North Korea 1 million tons of fuel oil and other benefits from the US and other nations, in exchange for disabling its nuclear facilities.
However in May 2009 North Korea walked out of international talks aimed at ending its nuclear activities, and the country carried out its second underground nuclear test.
As a result, the UN Security Council extended sanctions against North Korea.
Analysts expect such sanctions will squeeze North Korea's economy again.
South Korea's central bank releases yearly estimate of North Korea's economic growth, but North Korea does not release official economic data.
Originally Posted on Political Economy Research (click here)
North Korea's economy expanded in 2008, thanks to high agricultural yields after contracting for two years in a row, South Korea's central bank says.
Last year the North Korean economy grew 3.7% compared to a year earlier, after shrinking by 2.3% in 2007 and by 1.1% in 2006.
The central bank said "temporary" factors, such as good weather, had helped boost agricultural production.
Despite the growth, the size of the economy is a fraction of South Korea's.
Agricultural production rose nearly 11% in 2008 compared with 2007. And coal, iron ore and other mineral production grew 2.3% for the year.
A deal agreed in 2007 gave North Korea 1 million tons of fuel oil and other benefits from the US and other nations, in exchange for disabling its nuclear facilities.
However in May 2009 North Korea walked out of international talks aimed at ending its nuclear activities, and the country carried out its second underground nuclear test.
As a result, the UN Security Council extended sanctions against North Korea.
Analysts expect such sanctions will squeeze North Korea's economy again.
South Korea's central bank releases yearly estimate of North Korea's economic growth, but North Korea does not release official economic data.
Originally Posted on Political Economy Research (click here)
Saturday, June 27, 2009
New Palestinian Talks
Fatah and Hamas plan on holding new unity talks in Cairo, Egypt on Sunday. Both sides are worried the talks will collapse over the issue of political prisoners.
Palestinian officials said Egypt was supposed to draw up a draft agreement based on the information the fact finding committees found earlier this year. The deadline for signing the agreement is July 7.
"They [Hamas] have no intention of signing an agreement on the seventh of next month," said Azzam al-Ahmed, a senior official in Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party.
"Any hope of reaching an agreement on July 7 basically depends on how Fatah deals with the issue of political prisoners," Omar Abdelraziq, a senior Hamas official, said.
Hamas has demanded that Fatah release all detained Hamas members in the West Bank, or at least give a timetable for their release. Both Fatah and Hamas have accused each other of persecuting their rivals. According to human rights groups, both Fatah and Hamas are guilty of arbitrary arrests and prisoner abuse.
Palestinian officials said Egypt was supposed to draw up a draft agreement based on the information the fact finding committees found earlier this year. The deadline for signing the agreement is July 7.
"They [Hamas] have no intention of signing an agreement on the seventh of next month," said Azzam al-Ahmed, a senior official in Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party.
"Any hope of reaching an agreement on July 7 basically depends on how Fatah deals with the issue of political prisoners," Omar Abdelraziq, a senior Hamas official, said.
Hamas has demanded that Fatah release all detained Hamas members in the West Bank, or at least give a timetable for their release. Both Fatah and Hamas have accused each other of persecuting their rivals. According to human rights groups, both Fatah and Hamas are guilty of arbitrary arrests and prisoner abuse.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Nepal Update 6/25/09
General Secretary of the CPN (UML) Ishwor Pokharel has hinted a possible premature termination of Chief of Army Staff Rookmangud Katawal if all political parties agree for the action.
Addressing a function in Sindhulimadi Wednesday, Pokhrel said all political forces in the country must have the same position on issues like control and mobilization of the Nepal Army.
He further said his party objected on the removal of Katawal by the Maoist-led government because the Maoists went ahead unilaterally.
He questioned the Maoist leadership, who has repeatedly tagged Madhav Kumar Nepal as a loser in elections, as to why they had asked Nepal to lead the constitutional committee of the constituent assembly.
Additionally, Pokhrel claimed the UML-led coalition government will run until the entrusted tasks are completed.
Criticizing the Maoists for their demonstrations on border encroachment, Pokhrel said UML-led government plans to settle all border disputes through dialogue at the diplomatic level.
The UCPN (Maoist) senior leader Mr. Mohan Baidya Pokharel, whose alias is Kiran, has said that the Maoist party should take the path to Peoples’ Uprising-III to form the Maoists’ led National Government.
Mr. Baidya made these remarks talking to journalists on Tuesday, June 23, 2009.
“The deadlock must come to an end through the third peoples’ revolt and ultimately to form the National Government," said Kiran.
“The Imperialists and Expansionists foreign powers have provided this puppet government a shape under the command of Madhav Kumar Nepal,” said Kiran, adding that the formation of the puppet government is against the mandate of the Nepali population.
“The Maoists’ led revolt is yet incomplete…the next revolt will ensure Peoples’ Republican order and safeguard Nepal’s unique identity,” Kiran also said.
To add, in the ongoing Maoists’ politburo meeting, Maoists leaders C.P. Gajurel, Netra Bikram Chand, and Dev Gurung have stood in favor of Mr. Baidya’s line.
Speaking at the ongoing PB meeting, the leaders on Tuesday criticized the Party chief Puspa Kamal Dahal’s (Prachanda) 19 Page Proposal and made remarks in favor of Mr. Baidya.
“They held that Dahal’s proposal was incomplete and favored yet another revolt to ensure peoples’ supremacy,” reports quote Maoist sources as saying.
Those who spoke in favor of Party Chairman Dahal were Posta Bahadur Bogati, Barsa Man Pun and, Girija Raj Mani Pokharel.
Addressing a function in Sindhulimadi Wednesday, Pokhrel said all political forces in the country must have the same position on issues like control and mobilization of the Nepal Army.
He further said his party objected on the removal of Katawal by the Maoist-led government because the Maoists went ahead unilaterally.
He questioned the Maoist leadership, who has repeatedly tagged Madhav Kumar Nepal as a loser in elections, as to why they had asked Nepal to lead the constitutional committee of the constituent assembly.
Additionally, Pokhrel claimed the UML-led coalition government will run until the entrusted tasks are completed.
Criticizing the Maoists for their demonstrations on border encroachment, Pokhrel said UML-led government plans to settle all border disputes through dialogue at the diplomatic level.
The UCPN (Maoist) senior leader Mr. Mohan Baidya Pokharel, whose alias is Kiran, has said that the Maoist party should take the path to Peoples’ Uprising-III to form the Maoists’ led National Government.
Mr. Baidya made these remarks talking to journalists on Tuesday, June 23, 2009.
“The deadlock must come to an end through the third peoples’ revolt and ultimately to form the National Government," said Kiran.
“The Imperialists and Expansionists foreign powers have provided this puppet government a shape under the command of Madhav Kumar Nepal,” said Kiran, adding that the formation of the puppet government is against the mandate of the Nepali population.
“The Maoists’ led revolt is yet incomplete…the next revolt will ensure Peoples’ Republican order and safeguard Nepal’s unique identity,” Kiran also said.
To add, in the ongoing Maoists’ politburo meeting, Maoists leaders C.P. Gajurel, Netra Bikram Chand, and Dev Gurung have stood in favor of Mr. Baidya’s line.
Speaking at the ongoing PB meeting, the leaders on Tuesday criticized the Party chief Puspa Kamal Dahal’s (Prachanda) 19 Page Proposal and made remarks in favor of Mr. Baidya.
“They held that Dahal’s proposal was incomplete and favored yet another revolt to ensure peoples’ supremacy,” reports quote Maoist sources as saying.
Those who spoke in favor of Party Chairman Dahal were Posta Bahadur Bogati, Barsa Man Pun and, Girija Raj Mani Pokharel.
Iranian Maoist Excerpts
These are excerpts of a flyer put out by the Communist Party of Iran (Marxist-Leninist-Maoist) on the night of June 20.
The intensity of fighting in the streets and alleys of central Tehran tonight, and the number of women and men who, with their lives in their hands, stood firm in the front lines and drove back the armed herds of violent thugs, were unprecedented. If you want to see how weak and desperate the regime is, look at the only thing it can rely on: its security forces. That’s all! Illusions have evaporated. Cunning religious preaching and the myth of the Imam Zaman [the Shia messiah] can no longer fool the angry people. The lies of the national media can no longer put the masses to sleep. Instead it increases their anger and hatred a hundred-fold. So the only thing left for the murderous ruling gang is guns, batons, teargas, chains, and herds of anti-riot and law and order forces, Basijis and finally the army.
This afternoon’s brutal attack against scattered but numerous crowds did not end the demonstration – instead, it spread it to other areas of Tehran. The Basij units and anti-riot police used the tactic of dividing the crowd into smaller groups and then encircling and beating up each group. It worked at first, but before long the scattered masses regrouped in the streets and alleys in the surrounding area, this time with a spirit and methods totally different from that of the demonstrations of the last couple of weeks. This time the slogans directly targeted the Islamic Republic and its leader. There was not much room for “God is great! ” A young person wrote in blue spray paint on a street corner, “Even Shah heard the cry of my revolution! [and resigned]. Jamaran [the Leader’s headquarters] is deaf! “…
Tonight, from east to west, from the north to south of Tehran, there is a state of siege. Tonight many eyes will stay open. Many people are thinking about tomorrow, the road forward, the methods that need to be taken up to advance the uprising of the masses and lead it to victory. Today, in the short moments that were found for discussion, there was talk of the need for a widespread general strike. Some said nothing can be done without weapons. One thing is clear: We still have a long way to go on what we’ve started. People should prepare themselves for days and months ahead, to remain in the streets in different forms. The slogans of the uprising should become clearer and deeper, and the level of struggle raised so that it can seize victory.
- end item-
Communique #6 from the Communist Party of Iran (MLM)
The following is a new and recent communique from the Communist Party of Iran (Marxist-Leninist-Maoist). It is called "People Beware! Mousavi is not your brother and he is not on your side!"
These words might sound unpleasant for many of you engaged in bloody battle with the enemy, but open your eyes and ears!
Mir Hossein Mousavi called on you to “consider the Basiji your brothers”. This means you should consider your brothers those who used knives and machetes on the bodies of your dearest sons and daughters. Mousavi told you “not to consider the army to be against you”. This means considering to be your friends those who under the orders of Khamenei are trying to smash your uprising and are shooting our youth in many corners of the country.
Young people, be alert!
Mousavi claims that “the genuine call of Islamic revolution” is what has moved you. This is a blatant lie. He knows very well that what has moved you is a burning desire to change this world. It’s impossible to change the existing order without overthrowing the Islamic Republic.
Mousavi claimed that “the heritage of the far-sighted Imam [Khomeini]” is what has inspired you. This is also a blatant lie. Khomeini’s first measures after taking power were to slice women’s faces with knives, force them to cover their heads and take away their basic rights. He sent the army to suppress the people of Kurdistan, Khoozistan and Turkmen Sahra. Is that what has inspired you?
Brave young women and men, pay attention to Mousavi’s real demands!
He calls you to “the Islamic revolution as it was and the Islamic Republic as it should be”. He tells you, “You are not against the sacred Islamic Republic system and its legal structures”. He tells you that you must seek reform, “a reform with a return to the pure principles of the Islamic Revolution.. .”
Look at this society drowning in corruption, destruction, superstition, dark religious ignorance, drug addiction and prostitution. These are the fruits of those pure principles. Principles against which you have courageously risen.
Mousavi says, “Many of our problems are the consequence of lies”. But he himself is lying… One of Mousavi’s big lies in 1981 was to slander the Sarbedaran uprising in Iran as “inspired by the Shah”. The Sarbedaran uprising was waged to overthrow the Islamic Republic and save the people’s revolution, but it was defeated. These are facts that you all must know.
In these decisive days, besides bravery and perseverance in the battlefield, you must arm and strengthen your mind with the truths of the last 30 years. These truths light up our road and further strengthen us. Mousavi, with his religious preaching, wants to numb your searching brains. If you know the truth – that the quarrel between Mousavi, Rafsanjani and [opposition figure Mehdi] Karoubi on the one hand, and Khamenei and Ahmadinejad on the other, is a quarrel between two power- and money-hungry Mafia gangs and has nothing to do with your interests – then you can find the real liberating road and dare to scale the heights for your liberation.
Young women and men – fight! But fight with open eyes and lofty goals!
Mousavi’s trademarks are the slogan “God is great” and the [Islamic] colour green. Many of you think that these symbols are important for your unity. But they are first and foremost the symbols of the society that Mousavi promises to build – nothing but the same Islamic Republic with minor reforms to make it stronger.
Is this really the kind of society you want? Is it worth so much sacrifice? Why can’t we make sacrifices for much higher and loftier goals? Why not struggle for a fundamentally different society and future? A society free of all oppression and exploitation. A society where everyone shares and cooperates. Where the equality of women and men is a fundamental and self-evident principle. Where the beautiful scenes of collaboration, mutual help and consideration we are witnessing in our common battles today would be institutionalized. A society that is rid of boredom and stagnation, and always lively and active.
Shouldn’t we think about these things and debate them even in the midst of the battle? In fact it is decisive for the future of our uprising to know what kind of society we want and how we can bring it about. This view, perspective and commitment must be linked up broadly with your anger and struggle today against this bigoted and fraudulent rule. This is the only way to prevent our efforts in this historical juncture from going to waste and prevent us from confusing friends and enemies.
Let’s raise our level of consciousness! And widely stir debate among the masses!
Form revolutionary cells of the most advanced young women and men in each neighborhood, factory and university to widely distribute leaflets, do exposures and raise consciousness among the masses and bring more people into the various militant struggles.
These words might sound unpleasant for many of you engaged in bloody battle with the enemy, but open your eyes and ears!
Mir Hossein Mousavi called on you to “consider the Basiji your brothers”. This means you should consider your brothers those who used knives and machetes on the bodies of your dearest sons and daughters. Mousavi told you “not to consider the army to be against you”. This means considering to be your friends those who under the orders of Khamenei are trying to smash your uprising and are shooting our youth in many corners of the country.
Young people, be alert!
Mousavi claims that “the genuine call of Islamic revolution” is what has moved you. This is a blatant lie. He knows very well that what has moved you is a burning desire to change this world. It’s impossible to change the existing order without overthrowing the Islamic Republic.
Mousavi claimed that “the heritage of the far-sighted Imam [Khomeini]” is what has inspired you. This is also a blatant lie. Khomeini’s first measures after taking power were to slice women’s faces with knives, force them to cover their heads and take away their basic rights. He sent the army to suppress the people of Kurdistan, Khoozistan and Turkmen Sahra. Is that what has inspired you?
Brave young women and men, pay attention to Mousavi’s real demands!
He calls you to “the Islamic revolution as it was and the Islamic Republic as it should be”. He tells you, “You are not against the sacred Islamic Republic system and its legal structures”. He tells you that you must seek reform, “a reform with a return to the pure principles of the Islamic Revolution.. .”
Look at this society drowning in corruption, destruction, superstition, dark religious ignorance, drug addiction and prostitution. These are the fruits of those pure principles. Principles against which you have courageously risen.
Mousavi says, “Many of our problems are the consequence of lies”. But he himself is lying… One of Mousavi’s big lies in 1981 was to slander the Sarbedaran uprising in Iran as “inspired by the Shah”. The Sarbedaran uprising was waged to overthrow the Islamic Republic and save the people’s revolution, but it was defeated. These are facts that you all must know.
In these decisive days, besides bravery and perseverance in the battlefield, you must arm and strengthen your mind with the truths of the last 30 years. These truths light up our road and further strengthen us. Mousavi, with his religious preaching, wants to numb your searching brains. If you know the truth – that the quarrel between Mousavi, Rafsanjani and [opposition figure Mehdi] Karoubi on the one hand, and Khamenei and Ahmadinejad on the other, is a quarrel between two power- and money-hungry Mafia gangs and has nothing to do with your interests – then you can find the real liberating road and dare to scale the heights for your liberation.
Young women and men – fight! But fight with open eyes and lofty goals!
Mousavi’s trademarks are the slogan “God is great” and the [Islamic] colour green. Many of you think that these symbols are important for your unity. But they are first and foremost the symbols of the society that Mousavi promises to build – nothing but the same Islamic Republic with minor reforms to make it stronger.
Is this really the kind of society you want? Is it worth so much sacrifice? Why can’t we make sacrifices for much higher and loftier goals? Why not struggle for a fundamentally different society and future? A society free of all oppression and exploitation. A society where everyone shares and cooperates. Where the equality of women and men is a fundamental and self-evident principle. Where the beautiful scenes of collaboration, mutual help and consideration we are witnessing in our common battles today would be institutionalized. A society that is rid of boredom and stagnation, and always lively and active.
Shouldn’t we think about these things and debate them even in the midst of the battle? In fact it is decisive for the future of our uprising to know what kind of society we want and how we can bring it about. This view, perspective and commitment must be linked up broadly with your anger and struggle today against this bigoted and fraudulent rule. This is the only way to prevent our efforts in this historical juncture from going to waste and prevent us from confusing friends and enemies.
Let’s raise our level of consciousness! And widely stir debate among the masses!
Form revolutionary cells of the most advanced young women and men in each neighborhood, factory and university to widely distribute leaflets, do exposures and raise consciousness among the masses and bring more people into the various militant struggles.
Indian Maoists Update
The Indian government has banned the Maoist Communist Party of India as a terrorist group, giving security forces enhanced powers of arrest.
The move provides Indian police with the power to detain members of the party even if they have not been involved in insurgent activity.
Earlier, five states across east and central India were put on a high alert as the Maoists called a two-day strike.
One district in West Bengal briefly fell under almost total Maoist control.
The rebels said the strike they declared was in response to the “war” on people in Lalgarh, West Bengal, where security forces launched an offensive in recent days.
Lalgarh had been under the virtual control of the rebels since November.
But police and paramilitary troops have been attempting to consolidate their grip on the jungle enclave over which they re-established control over the weekend.
Monday’s strike began a day after 11 police officers died in a rebel attack in Chhattisgarh state and two days after 16 policemen were killed in landmine blasts triggered by the Maoists in the same state.
Issuing a high alert for the five states in which the strike was declared, the interior ministry said India’s federal Intelligence Bureau had “specific inputs” that Maoists were planning possible attacks.
“Security forces, as well as economic infrastructure like railways, buses and crowded markets, may be targeted by the Maoists to make their presence felt during the strike,” the interior ministry advisory said.
India’s prime minister, Manmohan Singh, has described the Maoists as the greatest threat to India’s internal security.
The ban on the Communist Party of India (Maoist) comes just a month after the Congress party won a decisive victory in elections – leaving it with no need to turn to communist parties for support in shoring up a coalition.
Correspondents say it is unclear how big an impact the ban will have in the fight against the rebels.
------
Lalgarh unrest:
Villagers in Lalgarh say their young men are being forced by police to hunt for explosives planted by the Maoists.
“They are giving the village boys an S-shaped iron rod each, asking them to hook it to wires sticking out anywhere and pull it. This is dangerous because they will be too close to the explosives if the wires are linked to them,” said Chattradhar Mahato, chairman of the Peoples Committee on Police Atrocities (PCPA), active in the Lalgarh area.
Some of Bengal’s leading artists, including film-maker Aparna Sen, visited Lalgarh on Sunday in a attempt to broker peace between the West Bengal government and the Maoists, but neither appeared to be in a mood to talk.
Maoist leader Kishneji told the BBC: “We will show the government what is people’s power. No police or army can crush that.”
Thousands of villagers have fled their homes in the Lalgarh region to avoid getting caught in the fighting, heading towards neighboring areas of Bankura district.
The Bengal government started the offensive to retake Lalgarh, which had effectively been under Maoist control since November.
The Maoists skilfully harnessed people’s anger over police excesses following an Maoist attempt to kill chief minister Buddha Bhattacharya through a landmine blast, says the BBC’s Subir Bhaumik in Calcutta.
The move provides Indian police with the power to detain members of the party even if they have not been involved in insurgent activity.
Earlier, five states across east and central India were put on a high alert as the Maoists called a two-day strike.
One district in West Bengal briefly fell under almost total Maoist control.
The rebels said the strike they declared was in response to the “war” on people in Lalgarh, West Bengal, where security forces launched an offensive in recent days.
Lalgarh had been under the virtual control of the rebels since November.
But police and paramilitary troops have been attempting to consolidate their grip on the jungle enclave over which they re-established control over the weekend.
Monday’s strike began a day after 11 police officers died in a rebel attack in Chhattisgarh state and two days after 16 policemen were killed in landmine blasts triggered by the Maoists in the same state.
Issuing a high alert for the five states in which the strike was declared, the interior ministry said India’s federal Intelligence Bureau had “specific inputs” that Maoists were planning possible attacks.
“Security forces, as well as economic infrastructure like railways, buses and crowded markets, may be targeted by the Maoists to make their presence felt during the strike,” the interior ministry advisory said.
India’s prime minister, Manmohan Singh, has described the Maoists as the greatest threat to India’s internal security.
The ban on the Communist Party of India (Maoist) comes just a month after the Congress party won a decisive victory in elections – leaving it with no need to turn to communist parties for support in shoring up a coalition.
Correspondents say it is unclear how big an impact the ban will have in the fight against the rebels.
------
Lalgarh unrest:
Villagers in Lalgarh say their young men are being forced by police to hunt for explosives planted by the Maoists.
“They are giving the village boys an S-shaped iron rod each, asking them to hook it to wires sticking out anywhere and pull it. This is dangerous because they will be too close to the explosives if the wires are linked to them,” said Chattradhar Mahato, chairman of the Peoples Committee on Police Atrocities (PCPA), active in the Lalgarh area.
Some of Bengal’s leading artists, including film-maker Aparna Sen, visited Lalgarh on Sunday in a attempt to broker peace between the West Bengal government and the Maoists, but neither appeared to be in a mood to talk.
Maoist leader Kishneji told the BBC: “We will show the government what is people’s power. No police or army can crush that.”
Thousands of villagers have fled their homes in the Lalgarh region to avoid getting caught in the fighting, heading towards neighboring areas of Bankura district.
The Bengal government started the offensive to retake Lalgarh, which had effectively been under Maoist control since November.
The Maoists skilfully harnessed people’s anger over police excesses following an Maoist attempt to kill chief minister Buddha Bhattacharya through a landmine blast, says the BBC’s Subir Bhaumik in Calcutta.
Pulitzer Prize Winner Reveals Media-Pentagon Propaganda Connection
Last month David Barstow of the New York Times won a Pulitzer Prize for investigative reporting. The cable and TV networks, along with their allies, said absolutely nothing about this. Why? Because they don't want you to know what Mr. Barstow discovered. He reported that network "news" is highly involved in a Pentagon-sponsored propaganda campaign to brainwash the American people (and other people who might watch) into supporting the Iraq and Afghanistan wars as well as other things.
Barstow revealed Pentagon documents that repeatedly refer to TV military analysts as "message force multipliers" or "surrogates" who could be relied on to give administration messages and themes to the public as if it were the analysts real opinion.
The Pentagon-controlled pundits are often retired generals. They were given hundreds of classified Pentagon briefings, provided with Pentagon approved talking points, and flown to Iraq and other sites by the Pentagon. This great access came with conditions though. "Participants were instructed not to quote their briefers directly or otherwise describe their contacts with the Pentagon."
"It was them saying, 'We need to stick our hands up your back and move your mouth for you,'" said Robert S. Bevelacqua, a retired Green Beret and former Fox News military analyst. Many of the Pentagon-puppets mentioned in Barstow's Prize-winner are still employed by the networks, and still spreading their propaganda. NBC and CNN are also guilty of conspiring with this government program to spread propaganda.
CNN ran an 898-word story on pretty much every Pulitzer winner, but they couldn't find any room for David Barstow's report. Why? Because Barstow exposed CNN's corruption when it comes to covering the Iraq War and other military-matters.
The Department of Defense Inspector General's office did an investigation into the Pentagon pundit program. They released the findings of their investigation, which Congressional critics called a whitewash. A little while after its release, the Inspector General's report was withdrawn due to supposed inaccuracies in the data and low-quality. So much for the Department of Defense defending itself. Congress has complained about the Pentagon propaganda program, but Congress hasn't taken any serious action.
As you can see, the "liberal media" and the "conservative media" are the same damn thing! They are the media of the ruling class, the media of war-profiteers and other capitalists. It is nothing but lies. Don't believe anything you see or hear on the television and radio.
Click Here to see the issue of the Rock Creek Free Press that reported on this.
Barstow revealed Pentagon documents that repeatedly refer to TV military analysts as "message force multipliers" or "surrogates" who could be relied on to give administration messages and themes to the public as if it were the analysts real opinion.
The Pentagon-controlled pundits are often retired generals. They were given hundreds of classified Pentagon briefings, provided with Pentagon approved talking points, and flown to Iraq and other sites by the Pentagon. This great access came with conditions though. "Participants were instructed not to quote their briefers directly or otherwise describe their contacts with the Pentagon."
"It was them saying, 'We need to stick our hands up your back and move your mouth for you,'" said Robert S. Bevelacqua, a retired Green Beret and former Fox News military analyst. Many of the Pentagon-puppets mentioned in Barstow's Prize-winner are still employed by the networks, and still spreading their propaganda. NBC and CNN are also guilty of conspiring with this government program to spread propaganda.
CNN ran an 898-word story on pretty much every Pulitzer winner, but they couldn't find any room for David Barstow's report. Why? Because Barstow exposed CNN's corruption when it comes to covering the Iraq War and other military-matters.
The Department of Defense Inspector General's office did an investigation into the Pentagon pundit program. They released the findings of their investigation, which Congressional critics called a whitewash. A little while after its release, the Inspector General's report was withdrawn due to supposed inaccuracies in the data and low-quality. So much for the Department of Defense defending itself. Congress has complained about the Pentagon propaganda program, but Congress hasn't taken any serious action.
As you can see, the "liberal media" and the "conservative media" are the same damn thing! They are the media of the ruling class, the media of war-profiteers and other capitalists. It is nothing but lies. Don't believe anything you see or hear on the television and radio.
Click Here to see the issue of the Rock Creek Free Press that reported on this.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Iranian Revolution? Part 1
Iran. A nation with thousands of years of rich history. But, this week, it has become a nation of rioting, protests and murder. Democracy, human rights and self respect, or at least what such little there once was, have gone out the window. After Mahmoud Ahmadinejad "won" the June 12th election, to the reaction of mass protest, could we be seeing a second Iranian Revolution, almost exactly 30 years after the first, or will this be a Persian Tienanmen square?
Before we can attempt to understand why the current situation has occurred we need to understand modern Iranian history. To just observe the present situation and determine it's causes, effects and possible outcome is impossible. Such a familiar story is uncovered that it appears merely an echo from around the world. This is my simplified take on such a complex series of events. Names and key events are linked with more information;
In 1951 Mohammad Mosaddeq was democratically elected the Prime Minister of Iran. He won on a campaign to nationalize the vast oil production and to remove the intervention of foreign powers in Iran.
But, as always, there was a problem with that. At the time the Oil was owned by the British oil giant BP. They raked in billions of pounds profit each year selling Iranian oil. They weren't happy. This became known as the Abadan Crisis, named after the city where the oil refinery was located. Now because capital for UK business is, and always will be in a capitalist mode of production, more important than both Iranian democracy and human rights the then UK Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, enlisted the help of the US to remove Mossadeq from power. Harry S. Truman, the US president at the time refused. But then in 1953, Dwight D. Eisenhower replaced Truman and agreed to overthrow Mossaddeq. Winston Churchill, the very man who led the defeat of Nazism was now plotting to remove the elected Prime Minister of Iran. Oh, the irony.
So the coup began. The CIA and MI6 moved in arrested Mossaddeq and set the Shah, or monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, complete political power. The oil fell back into the hands of BP and other foreign companies. Everyone was happy again; the money was rolling in, Iran was under control of a US puppet government, there was no danger of Soviet influence. In a word -perfect. Except, of course for the people of Iran. The person they had chosen to be their leader and use oil revenues to improve the impoverished nation had been removed. To make matters worse they now had to live under the brutal dictatorship of the Shah, who, just to rub things in, was supported and funded by the western world.
To be continued....
Click here for the source of this article.
Before we can attempt to understand why the current situation has occurred we need to understand modern Iranian history. To just observe the present situation and determine it's causes, effects and possible outcome is impossible. Such a familiar story is uncovered that it appears merely an echo from around the world. This is my simplified take on such a complex series of events. Names and key events are linked with more information;
In 1951 Mohammad Mosaddeq was democratically elected the Prime Minister of Iran. He won on a campaign to nationalize the vast oil production and to remove the intervention of foreign powers in Iran.
But, as always, there was a problem with that. At the time the Oil was owned by the British oil giant BP. They raked in billions of pounds profit each year selling Iranian oil. They weren't happy. This became known as the Abadan Crisis, named after the city where the oil refinery was located. Now because capital for UK business is, and always will be in a capitalist mode of production, more important than both Iranian democracy and human rights the then UK Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, enlisted the help of the US to remove Mossadeq from power. Harry S. Truman, the US president at the time refused. But then in 1953, Dwight D. Eisenhower replaced Truman and agreed to overthrow Mossaddeq. Winston Churchill, the very man who led the defeat of Nazism was now plotting to remove the elected Prime Minister of Iran. Oh, the irony.
So the coup began. The CIA and MI6 moved in arrested Mossaddeq and set the Shah, or monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, complete political power. The oil fell back into the hands of BP and other foreign companies. Everyone was happy again; the money was rolling in, Iran was under control of a US puppet government, there was no danger of Soviet influence. In a word -perfect. Except, of course for the people of Iran. The person they had chosen to be their leader and use oil revenues to improve the impoverished nation had been removed. To make matters worse they now had to live under the brutal dictatorship of the Shah, who, just to rub things in, was supported and funded by the western world.
To be continued....
Click here for the source of this article.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Guerrilla TV, My Show on MRNN
This is my show on the Maoist Rebel News Network (MRNN). The MRN Network will be debuting new shows in addition to their flagship show, the Maoist Rebel News.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Iranian Maoists to Regime: “You wanted a fight? Let’s fight!”
15 June 2009. The following is a leaflet issued 15 June by the Communist Party of Iran (Marxist-Leninist-Maoist). The title is a challenge to the regime.
Rebellion, revolutionary situation, an explosion of the hatred felt by millions of people throughout the country: it doesn’t matter what you call the recent events. What matters is that we have entered a new period. Many bridges have been broken and in many spheres there is no return to past. The young women and men fighting courageously in the streets reflect the discontent and anger of three generations. Faces are bloody, bodies bruised, but nobody is talking about retreat or surrender. Armed-to-the- teeth mercenaries and herds of lumpen are wandering the streets but nobody pays any attention to them. Parents accompany their children in the streets. The initial shock and demoralization is rapidly disappearing.
In the mind of millions, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s disgrace in the election farce has discredited the “possibility of change and the rectification of the regime from within” far more rapidly and effectively than any political debate and reasoning. The leading faction took a serious gamble with this. And now many of the rebellious youths are thinking about ways for effectively getting rid of the regime.
There was a clear example of this yesterday in the students’ response to Zahra Rahnavard [married to Mir-Hossein Mousavi] who had gone to [Tehran] university to calm them down: “We didn’t come to battle for the presidency of Mousavi, we have come to defeat the coup and smash the dictators’ set-up”.
This faction is trying to put its own chains on people’s minds by trying to popularize the slogan “Allah is great” and adopting the color green [symbol of Islam]. They seek and to channel the people’s energy and imagination towards the cesspool of their own negotiations with the “Leader” and the ruling faction. This situation places an urgent task on the shoulders of all courageous and conscious youth, women and workers: that they participate in the street battles with slogans and leaflets and help widen and deepen the perspectives and aspirations of the masses of people to the maximum. This is the precondition for continuing to avoid the wrong roads different factions of the ruling class are trying to get the people to take. The slogans of the rebellion should go beyond those limited and common slogans that are aiming at dictators – Ahmadinejad and Khamenei – and their infamy, and add other appropriate slogans:
We are women and men of war. You wanted a fight? Let’s fight!
We don’t want an Islamic monarchy!
We don’t want an Islamic republic!
We don’t want Islamic rule!
Cannons, tanks and basiji [militia] scare us no more!
The only way to liberation is perseverance and persistence!
Poverty, corruption, unemployment = Islamic republic!
We don’t want the forced veil!
The sharp edge of the uprising targets the criminal gang of Ahmadinejad and the main directors of the scene behind him (a section of big capitalists, heads of the army and intelligence services, and a section of the Shiite clergy). But it is a big mistake if we limit the whole of the system to today’s putschists. All the factions of this state system, including the “reformists” , have spent 30 years in crime and theft. The fact that the wolves are now at each other’s throats in no way changes the anti-people nature of these factions. But the rift within the Islamic Republic is unprecedented. It has disturbed the internal coherence of the regime and weakened the regime in the face of the people. Ahmadinejad & Company’s show of force is a sign of desperation.
People should take maximum advantage of the weakening of the state and deal it effective blows. Women, youth, workers and teachers must win demands and rights with their own hands. For example, women can end the forced veil in practice, and by forming cells and taking charge of leading the struggles of women for liberation. Leftist students can and must form a coordinating headquarters for communication at the national level in order to dispatch the news of struggle and their own directives and slogans and popularize them widely. We cannot let Mousavi and the reformist faction become the headquarters of the struggle of the masses. If this faction becomes the “representative” of the people it would be a very heavy blow to the present liberating wave. We need our own revolutionary headquarters. Such an active headquarters, even if small, can become the foundation of a nationwide student organization. The workers of various factories from Ahvaz to Haft Tapeh, Karaj, Arak and Tabriz can rapidly form initial cells of a workers’ organization and become the general voice of the people against the Islamic Republic. By putting forward correct slogans and demands, they can become the real voice of the people and divert people’s thinking from “either Mousavi or Ahmadinejad” and explain that “Mousavi or Ahmadinejad” is exactly the IRI we have been experiencing for the last 30 years.
The previous generation of communists and liberation militants can play an important role in these two tasks: first they have the task of raising people’s sights from the narrow horizons of the reformists, and second, turning the initial links that are developing in the streets and in the heat of struggle into longer-term links in cells and various networks. There is no doubt that the active core and fighting force of this advanced and revolutionary political project should be made up of young students and workers in universities, neighborhoods and factories.
People must know that Mousavi, Khatami, Rafsanjani and in general the whole ”reformist’ ‘ faction of the regime are negotiating behind the scenes with the “Leader” and the heads of the military and intelligence services in order to prevent the collapse of the whole IRI structure in the face of the people’s wrath. People must know that there are behind-the-scenes dealings between the heads of the IRI and regional and world powers (such as China, the EU, Turkey and the U.S.), with the aim of bringing a peaceful end to “the events”. The U.S.’s main concern is to open negotiations with the IRI in order to solve its problems in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In his key speech in Egypt – where he even praised the Islamic veil – Barack Obama emphasized that he has no problem with an Islamic republic. At present the U.S. is not in favor of “disrupting” the structure of IRI rule.
One important and decisive conclusion can be drawn from all this: people have come to understand their power. This power needs organization. People’s awareness is advancing rapidly. Their understanding can and must grow towards and reach the perspective of the overthrow of the IRI and making a real revolution, concentrating the suppressed dreams and longings of the majority of the people of Iran.
In his speech in Vali Asr Square Ahmadinejad called the rising masses “scum” and said that “the clean river of the people” will push them aside! This kind of talk means that the fight is seriously on and if we want to carry it through to the end we need to prepare. The regime and its various factions have their own political centers for deciding policy, developing slogans and manipulating people. The people need their own centers to analyze the political situation and devise policies for raising consciousness and continuing our own struggle.
The regime has its general staff and headquarters for military action and intelligence in order to suppress the masses. The people should have their own headquarters for the coordination, solidarity and organization of our own forces.
Original Source (click here)
Rebellion, revolutionary situation, an explosion of the hatred felt by millions of people throughout the country: it doesn’t matter what you call the recent events. What matters is that we have entered a new period. Many bridges have been broken and in many spheres there is no return to past. The young women and men fighting courageously in the streets reflect the discontent and anger of three generations. Faces are bloody, bodies bruised, but nobody is talking about retreat or surrender. Armed-to-the- teeth mercenaries and herds of lumpen are wandering the streets but nobody pays any attention to them. Parents accompany their children in the streets. The initial shock and demoralization is rapidly disappearing.
In the mind of millions, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s disgrace in the election farce has discredited the “possibility of change and the rectification of the regime from within” far more rapidly and effectively than any political debate and reasoning. The leading faction took a serious gamble with this. And now many of the rebellious youths are thinking about ways for effectively getting rid of the regime.
There was a clear example of this yesterday in the students’ response to Zahra Rahnavard [married to Mir-Hossein Mousavi] who had gone to [Tehran] university to calm them down: “We didn’t come to battle for the presidency of Mousavi, we have come to defeat the coup and smash the dictators’ set-up”.
This faction is trying to put its own chains on people’s minds by trying to popularize the slogan “Allah is great” and adopting the color green [symbol of Islam]. They seek and to channel the people’s energy and imagination towards the cesspool of their own negotiations with the “Leader” and the ruling faction. This situation places an urgent task on the shoulders of all courageous and conscious youth, women and workers: that they participate in the street battles with slogans and leaflets and help widen and deepen the perspectives and aspirations of the masses of people to the maximum. This is the precondition for continuing to avoid the wrong roads different factions of the ruling class are trying to get the people to take. The slogans of the rebellion should go beyond those limited and common slogans that are aiming at dictators – Ahmadinejad and Khamenei – and their infamy, and add other appropriate slogans:
We are women and men of war. You wanted a fight? Let’s fight!
We don’t want an Islamic monarchy!
We don’t want an Islamic republic!
We don’t want Islamic rule!
Cannons, tanks and basiji [militia] scare us no more!
The only way to liberation is perseverance and persistence!
Poverty, corruption, unemployment = Islamic republic!
We don’t want the forced veil!
The sharp edge of the uprising targets the criminal gang of Ahmadinejad and the main directors of the scene behind him (a section of big capitalists, heads of the army and intelligence services, and a section of the Shiite clergy). But it is a big mistake if we limit the whole of the system to today’s putschists. All the factions of this state system, including the “reformists” , have spent 30 years in crime and theft. The fact that the wolves are now at each other’s throats in no way changes the anti-people nature of these factions. But the rift within the Islamic Republic is unprecedented. It has disturbed the internal coherence of the regime and weakened the regime in the face of the people. Ahmadinejad & Company’s show of force is a sign of desperation.
People should take maximum advantage of the weakening of the state and deal it effective blows. Women, youth, workers and teachers must win demands and rights with their own hands. For example, women can end the forced veil in practice, and by forming cells and taking charge of leading the struggles of women for liberation. Leftist students can and must form a coordinating headquarters for communication at the national level in order to dispatch the news of struggle and their own directives and slogans and popularize them widely. We cannot let Mousavi and the reformist faction become the headquarters of the struggle of the masses. If this faction becomes the “representative” of the people it would be a very heavy blow to the present liberating wave. We need our own revolutionary headquarters. Such an active headquarters, even if small, can become the foundation of a nationwide student organization. The workers of various factories from Ahvaz to Haft Tapeh, Karaj, Arak and Tabriz can rapidly form initial cells of a workers’ organization and become the general voice of the people against the Islamic Republic. By putting forward correct slogans and demands, they can become the real voice of the people and divert people’s thinking from “either Mousavi or Ahmadinejad” and explain that “Mousavi or Ahmadinejad” is exactly the IRI we have been experiencing for the last 30 years.
The previous generation of communists and liberation militants can play an important role in these two tasks: first they have the task of raising people’s sights from the narrow horizons of the reformists, and second, turning the initial links that are developing in the streets and in the heat of struggle into longer-term links in cells and various networks. There is no doubt that the active core and fighting force of this advanced and revolutionary political project should be made up of young students and workers in universities, neighborhoods and factories.
People must know that Mousavi, Khatami, Rafsanjani and in general the whole ”reformist’ ‘ faction of the regime are negotiating behind the scenes with the “Leader” and the heads of the military and intelligence services in order to prevent the collapse of the whole IRI structure in the face of the people’s wrath. People must know that there are behind-the-scenes dealings between the heads of the IRI and regional and world powers (such as China, the EU, Turkey and the U.S.), with the aim of bringing a peaceful end to “the events”. The U.S.’s main concern is to open negotiations with the IRI in order to solve its problems in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In his key speech in Egypt – where he even praised the Islamic veil – Barack Obama emphasized that he has no problem with an Islamic republic. At present the U.S. is not in favor of “disrupting” the structure of IRI rule.
One important and decisive conclusion can be drawn from all this: people have come to understand their power. This power needs organization. People’s awareness is advancing rapidly. Their understanding can and must grow towards and reach the perspective of the overthrow of the IRI and making a real revolution, concentrating the suppressed dreams and longings of the majority of the people of Iran.
In his speech in Vali Asr Square Ahmadinejad called the rising masses “scum” and said that “the clean river of the people” will push them aside! This kind of talk means that the fight is seriously on and if we want to carry it through to the end we need to prepare. The regime and its various factions have their own political centers for deciding policy, developing slogans and manipulating people. The people need their own centers to analyze the political situation and devise policies for raising consciousness and continuing our own struggle.
The regime has its general staff and headquarters for military action and intelligence in order to suppress the masses. The people should have their own headquarters for the coordination, solidarity and organization of our own forces.
Original Source (click here)
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
US Soldier Arrested for Molesting Kids
American soldier James Edward Norcross was on leave from his tour of duty in Iraq when he was arrested by Marion County police on Sunday. He is charged with sexually molesting three children now ages 15, 12, and 13.
The incidents date back three years and took place in Marion County (in Florida), Tennessee and North Carolina. The soldier was charged with two counts each of capital sexual battery, lewd and lascivious battery and lewd and lascivious exhibition. He remains in jail without bond.
"What he did is inexcusable," Michael Norcross, James' older brother, said. "We still care about him, but he must pay for his actions."
James Norcross confessed to molesting the kids to his mother before he was arrested.
He was captured after trying to run away to the Gulf Coast to commit suicide with a sword.
Not only is this man a sick child molester, he is also crazy. Committing suicide with a sword! The US military is full of wackos and criminals just like this. All these imperialist soldiers should impale themselves because they're all a bunch of rapists and thugs.
The incidents date back three years and took place in Marion County (in Florida), Tennessee and North Carolina. The soldier was charged with two counts each of capital sexual battery, lewd and lascivious battery and lewd and lascivious exhibition. He remains in jail without bond.
"What he did is inexcusable," Michael Norcross, James' older brother, said. "We still care about him, but he must pay for his actions."
James Norcross confessed to molesting the kids to his mother before he was arrested.
He was captured after trying to run away to the Gulf Coast to commit suicide with a sword.
Not only is this man a sick child molester, he is also crazy. Committing suicide with a sword! The US military is full of wackos and criminals just like this. All these imperialist soldiers should impale themselves because they're all a bunch of rapists and thugs.
US Army Sergeant Jailed after Pimping Minors
Sgt. Sterling Terrace Hospedales, 26, is being held in Pierce County Jail in Washington state under two counts of first-degree promoting prostitution, sex trafficking of a child, and attempted sex trafficking of a child.
An investigation began last year when Lakewood, Washington police found an ad on Craigslist. The ad was by a 16-year-old girl who had run away from home and was offering herself up as a prostitute.
The girl admitted to being a prostitute for the Sgt. She lived in an apartment he bought for her, and she gave him all the money she earned from selling herself.
Hospedales also paid to have another girl flown in from Wyoming to stay in the apartment. Hospedales said she would have to be a prostitute as well in order to pay him back the money for the plane ticket. The Sergeant threatened to throw her out and have other girls beat her up if she refused.
The Army will prosecute Hospedales after the civilian government is finished with him.
This is yet another black mark on the American military's record. How many more do they have to get before the world realizes the US military is just a large gang, a bunch of criminals? BBC even reported the US Army recruited people in prisons.
I knew army men were sexist, but I didn't realize they were sexist enough to directly exploit the bodies of teenage girls for money, even at the risk of giving these girls diseases. Of course, if a foreign military did it, then the American media automatically labels that entire military as criminals. But if Americans do it all of the sudden it's just an isolated incident. Quit being willfully ignorant.
An investigation began last year when Lakewood, Washington police found an ad on Craigslist. The ad was by a 16-year-old girl who had run away from home and was offering herself up as a prostitute.
The girl admitted to being a prostitute for the Sgt. She lived in an apartment he bought for her, and she gave him all the money she earned from selling herself.
Hospedales also paid to have another girl flown in from Wyoming to stay in the apartment. Hospedales said she would have to be a prostitute as well in order to pay him back the money for the plane ticket. The Sergeant threatened to throw her out and have other girls beat her up if she refused.
The Army will prosecute Hospedales after the civilian government is finished with him.
This is yet another black mark on the American military's record. How many more do they have to get before the world realizes the US military is just a large gang, a bunch of criminals? BBC even reported the US Army recruited people in prisons.
I knew army men were sexist, but I didn't realize they were sexist enough to directly exploit the bodies of teenage girls for money, even at the risk of giving these girls diseases. Of course, if a foreign military did it, then the American media automatically labels that entire military as criminals. But if Americans do it all of the sudden it's just an isolated incident. Quit being willfully ignorant.
Republican "Promise Keeper" Breaks Major Promise
Republican Senator John Ensign of Nevada, who was mentioned as a potential presidential candidate, admitted on Tuesday that he had an affair (committed adultery) with a woman on his campaign staff.
"Last year I had an affair. I violated the vows of my marriage," Ensign said at a news conference. "It is the worst thing I have ever done in my life. If there was ever anything in my life that I could take back, this would be it."
One of Ensign's office aides said the affair took place between December 2007 and August 2008 with a campaign staffer who was married to an employee in Ensign's Senate office. The office aide asked to remain anonymous, and the Senator will not reveal the name of the woman he had the affair with.
Ensign said he knew the woman and her husband before the affair took place.
"Our families were close," Ensign said. "That closeness put me into situations which led to my inappropriate behavior. We caused deep pain to both families and for that I am sorry."
(This is funny. I thought conservatives were pro-family, but now I see one has almost torn two families apart.)
Republicans lost eight seats last November under Ensign's failed attempt at campaign leadership.
Ensign is also a member of a Christian ministry called the Promise Keepers. Which is ironic, since he certainly didn't keep his promise to his wife.
Senator John Ensign contributed to the destruction of the "moral fabric of society," as Republicans like to call it. Congratulations Senator John Ensign, you're a hypocrite!
Do you confused conservative voters see what the rest of the US and the world have been trying to tell you now? Republicans aren't as pure and holy as they try to portray themselves to be.
For more information on bad conservatives, please read my other entries below:
http://partisan-news.blogspot.com/2009/06/republican-pedophile.html
http://partisan-news.blogspot.com/2009/06/protests-hypocrites-and-terrorists.html
"Last year I had an affair. I violated the vows of my marriage," Ensign said at a news conference. "It is the worst thing I have ever done in my life. If there was ever anything in my life that I could take back, this would be it."
One of Ensign's office aides said the affair took place between December 2007 and August 2008 with a campaign staffer who was married to an employee in Ensign's Senate office. The office aide asked to remain anonymous, and the Senator will not reveal the name of the woman he had the affair with.
Ensign said he knew the woman and her husband before the affair took place.
"Our families were close," Ensign said. "That closeness put me into situations which led to my inappropriate behavior. We caused deep pain to both families and for that I am sorry."
(This is funny. I thought conservatives were pro-family, but now I see one has almost torn two families apart.)
Republicans lost eight seats last November under Ensign's failed attempt at campaign leadership.
Ensign is also a member of a Christian ministry called the Promise Keepers. Which is ironic, since he certainly didn't keep his promise to his wife.
Senator John Ensign contributed to the destruction of the "moral fabric of society," as Republicans like to call it. Congratulations Senator John Ensign, you're a hypocrite!
Do you confused conservative voters see what the rest of the US and the world have been trying to tell you now? Republicans aren't as pure and holy as they try to portray themselves to be.
For more information on bad conservatives, please read my other entries below:
http://partisan-news.blogspot.com/2009/06/republican-pedophile.html
http://partisan-news.blogspot.com/2009/06/protests-hypocrites-and-terrorists.html
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Happy Birthday Che Guevara!
Ernesto "Che" Guevara was born on this day, June 14, in 1928. He was executed in 1967, but he would be 81 years old today if he had lived to see 2009. Che was one of the most famous communist Cold Warriors, a legendary Marxist-Leninist, and a key figure in the Cuban Revolution. Many peasants in Bolivia call him "Saint Ernesto" and pray to him for help. To honor his birthday, here are some videos about him.
Click here to see a two-part video series disproving the capitalist lies about Che.
"Hasta Siempre" by Boikot.
There is also a great book about Che that you should read. It's by Jon Lee Anderson, it's called Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life. It's probably in your local library, and you can order it online.
Click here to see a two-part video series disproving the capitalist lies about Che.
"Hasta Siempre" by Boikot.
There is also a great book about Che that you should read. It's by Jon Lee Anderson, it's called Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life. It's probably in your local library, and you can order it online.
Israeli ZioNazism Continues
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu gave a major policy speech recently. His position isn't different than that of the leaders before him. He said Israel is ready to recognize Palestinian statehood only if the Palestinians are demilitarized (a constant Israeli demand), recognize Israel, and no Palestinian refugees are allowed to settle inside of Israel. Netanyahu did not make any commitment in his speech to stop the construction of illegal Israeli settlements on Palestinian territory.There is a lot of support for Netanyahu's quasi-Nazi plan inside Israel. Palestinians rejected the Israeli Prime Minister's ideas, claiming they were proof of his government's extremist nature. The Palestinians correctly claim that the policies espoused by Netanyahu during the speech defy Palestinian expectations and preconditions, as well as the plans laid out by the Obama administration in the United States.
I called the Israeli plan "quasi-Nazi" for a reason. Quasi, as you might know, means similar but not the same as. The Israeli plan is similar to something Hitler would think of. It's xenophobic (like Nazis are) and apathetic to the plight of refugees because it won't allow Palestinians to seek refuge in Israel. It's hypocritical because, at the same time, Israel will still be building illegal settlements on Palestinian land (much like the Nazis did in Europe). So Israelis can take over parts of Palestine, but Palestinians can't try to save their own lives by seeking refuge in Israel! It's hypocritical because it says that the Palestinians don't have the right to defend themselves, but Israel can have all the weapons it wants! So if Israel wants to rape Palestine it can, and the Palestinian civilians will be defenseless. Kind of like how Hitler reduced the military strength of France during its years as an Axis puppet (Vichy France).
The only difference between the Israeli state and Nazi Germany is that the Israeli state doesn't favor the so-called "Aryan" man, but rather the Jewish man. Same crap, different people.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Review of "The Passion of the Mao"
Counterculture and anti-establishment, those two words alone sum up the video-documentary called The Passion of the Mao. This movie defends the Cultural Revolution that took place in China. It presents a view of Chinese history that is contradictory to what the capitalist roaders currently running China, and their bourgeois friends in other countries, will tell you."The Passion of the Mao is an irreverent documentary that reexamines the Cultural Revolution and restores the once bright reputation of Mao Zedong. The Passion of the Mao manages at one and the same time to put a new twist on Mao’s life, to mock the recent religious film by Mel Gibson [The Passion of the Christ], and to demonstrate how Mao’s influence lingers."
That is the description of the film given on its website (which I'll link to later).
The documentary starts out by describing the incident where the Vatican mistook a picture of Mao during his youth, wearing what looked to be a robe, as a picture of a priest. It then shows a cartoon of Mao morphing into a character that kind of looks like Jesus Christ. From there it goes into Mao's life before he became a communist. The video describes how Mao's political position changed over time until he eventually joined the Communist Party. From there, with some of the best Chinese war-footage I've seen, it gives a nice account of Mao and his comrades' leadership during WWII and the Chinese Civil War. It goes on about his time as the ruler of China, from the Great Leap Forward, to the Cultural Revolution, right up to Mao's death.
There is only one criticism I have of this movie, and that is that it claims Mao had many, many affairs with women during his reign. This simply isn't true. Mobo Gao debunks the whole "Mao was a womanizer" lie in his book The Battle for China's Past: Mao and the Cultural Revolution. I highly recommend you read that book.
Other than that one criticism, the movie is great. I give it four out of five stars. You should definitely watch The Passion of the Mao.
Click here to go to the official website of this movie.
Battle to liberate playground from fascists in Athens leads to five arrests
Anarchists in solidarity with the purged immigrants of Agios Panteleimonas ventured once again to open the public playground which is kept locked by fascists in favor of segregation, leading to battle with riot police and five arrests.
On Tuesday 9/06 anarchists in solidarity to immigrants who are being daily terrorized by fascist thugs of the Golden Dawn neo-Nazi party and their local allies in the area of Agios Panteleimonas, moved to unblock the entrance of the local children playground which the fascists want to keep locked in an effort to impose segregation between Greeks and immigrants, and "to preserve the blood purity of the white race"...While unblocking the playground the anarchists were attacked by fascists who were soon routed before the arrival of riot police forces who engaged the anarchists in battle with the aim of protecting the fascists. During the clashes one policeman was injured and five protesters were arrested on criminal charges. After the end of the clashes, a local Greek father, Mr. Tasoulas, defying the reign of terror in the area, took his son to play in the coveted playground. Soon they were surrounded by fascists who blocked the exit of the playground and threatened to lynch the father calling him a traitor. After he managed to handle the child to a sympathetic neighbor, the fascists beat the father in full presence of the chief of the local police station. The strong police forces present at the scene then arrested the father and took him to the local police station, where his solicitor, a leading figure of the legal world and human rights activist, was piled with eggs by fascists who threatened her life.
The new tension in the area comes after the Euro election ascent of LAOS, the fascist Popular Orthodox Alarm Party, to the 4th position with 7% of the vote. This in combination with the governing party's landslide defeat, has led the government to endorse the core of the extreme-right wing policies of LAOS, and pledge a mass sweeping operation against illegal immigrants and their Greek supporters during the summer. As the concentration camp planned to be built in the old NATO airbase of Aspropyrgos is now deemed impractical, the government has committed several old military camps of disgraceful humanitarian standards around the capital for the purpose of "cleaning the city of foreigners". The measures and discourse comes as little surprise as it comes from a political party famous for wanting to displace homosexuals in desert islands in the late 1970s. Furthermore the "Law and Order" operation of the coming summer is said to also include a mass attack against anarchist squats, and solidarity actions to immigrants by the movement as a whole. This the government hopes to achieve via a virtual military occupation of the center of Athens for the summer months modeled on Olympics 2004, as well as the introduction of a disputed legislation that would eventually render protest marches illegal. Due to the lack of a legislative majority by one MP, the government has resorted to yet another legal trick by increasing the total number of MPs by one, non-elected member of its own liking for the summer session of the Parliament.
The dictatorial rule of the right-wing and the ruthless employment of its parastate agents is increasing the tension across the country. Last week one police station in Athens was attacked and a central tax office was bombed by a Marxist guerrilla group, while a series of luxury brothels frequented by the ruling class were destroyed. At the same time, the movement is on its guard in expectation of next Saturday's Gay Pride parade which last year was attacked by parastate fascist thugs, as well as in expectation of an evacuation of the old courts in down-town Athens which are occupied by immigrants and are a constant target by the bourgeois media who waste no time in supporting the fascists in a most unambiguous manner.
Original Source
On Tuesday 9/06 anarchists in solidarity to immigrants who are being daily terrorized by fascist thugs of the Golden Dawn neo-Nazi party and their local allies in the area of Agios Panteleimonas, moved to unblock the entrance of the local children playground which the fascists want to keep locked in an effort to impose segregation between Greeks and immigrants, and "to preserve the blood purity of the white race"...While unblocking the playground the anarchists were attacked by fascists who were soon routed before the arrival of riot police forces who engaged the anarchists in battle with the aim of protecting the fascists. During the clashes one policeman was injured and five protesters were arrested on criminal charges. After the end of the clashes, a local Greek father, Mr. Tasoulas, defying the reign of terror in the area, took his son to play in the coveted playground. Soon they were surrounded by fascists who blocked the exit of the playground and threatened to lynch the father calling him a traitor. After he managed to handle the child to a sympathetic neighbor, the fascists beat the father in full presence of the chief of the local police station. The strong police forces present at the scene then arrested the father and took him to the local police station, where his solicitor, a leading figure of the legal world and human rights activist, was piled with eggs by fascists who threatened her life.
The new tension in the area comes after the Euro election ascent of LAOS, the fascist Popular Orthodox Alarm Party, to the 4th position with 7% of the vote. This in combination with the governing party's landslide defeat, has led the government to endorse the core of the extreme-right wing policies of LAOS, and pledge a mass sweeping operation against illegal immigrants and their Greek supporters during the summer. As the concentration camp planned to be built in the old NATO airbase of Aspropyrgos is now deemed impractical, the government has committed several old military camps of disgraceful humanitarian standards around the capital for the purpose of "cleaning the city of foreigners". The measures and discourse comes as little surprise as it comes from a political party famous for wanting to displace homosexuals in desert islands in the late 1970s. Furthermore the "Law and Order" operation of the coming summer is said to also include a mass attack against anarchist squats, and solidarity actions to immigrants by the movement as a whole. This the government hopes to achieve via a virtual military occupation of the center of Athens for the summer months modeled on Olympics 2004, as well as the introduction of a disputed legislation that would eventually render protest marches illegal. Due to the lack of a legislative majority by one MP, the government has resorted to yet another legal trick by increasing the total number of MPs by one, non-elected member of its own liking for the summer session of the Parliament.
The dictatorial rule of the right-wing and the ruthless employment of its parastate agents is increasing the tension across the country. Last week one police station in Athens was attacked and a central tax office was bombed by a Marxist guerrilla group, while a series of luxury brothels frequented by the ruling class were destroyed. At the same time, the movement is on its guard in expectation of next Saturday's Gay Pride parade which last year was attacked by parastate fascist thugs, as well as in expectation of an evacuation of the old courts in down-town Athens which are occupied by immigrants and are a constant target by the bourgeois media who waste no time in supporting the fascists in a most unambiguous manner.
Original Source
Liz Cheney Defends Holocaust Museum Shooter
Terrorism - the calculated use of violence (or the threat of violence) against civilians in order to attain goals that are political or religious or ideological in nature
Taken from http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=terrorism
Face it you stupid conservatives, the Holocaust Museum shooter is a terrorist. He wanted to coerce the Jews, and probably other people, into respecting Nazis. He wanted to use violence to impress potential Nazis. He is no different than a suicide bomber. Even his own son said the shooter wanted to force his beliefs on others.
Friday, June 12, 2009
UML and Maoists Negotiate
Senior leaders of the ruling CPN (UML) and opposition party UCPN (Maoist) met on Thursday to discuss ways of ending the deadlock in the Nepali parliament. They couldn't arrive at an agreement.
The Maoists wanted the UML to sack Army Chief Rookmangud Katawal, and they also wanted Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal to give a speech to parliament condemning the President's move to keep Katawal. The UML, however, offered to give Katawal early retirement and replace him. The Maoists rejected the UML's offer.
Senior leaders from both parties will hold another meeting this week.
Prior to Thursday's meeting, both party leaders said they are close to an agreement. A four point plan drawn up by the UML and submitted to the Maoist chief whip will supposedly get its finishing touches during the next meeting.
The Prime Minister will address parliament if an agreement is reached.
The Maoists wanted the UML to sack Army Chief Rookmangud Katawal, and they also wanted Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal to give a speech to parliament condemning the President's move to keep Katawal. The UML, however, offered to give Katawal early retirement and replace him. The Maoists rejected the UML's offer.
Senior leaders from both parties will hold another meeting this week.
Prior to Thursday's meeting, both party leaders said they are close to an agreement. A four point plan drawn up by the UML and submitted to the Maoist chief whip will supposedly get its finishing touches during the next meeting.
The Prime Minister will address parliament if an agreement is reached.
Chicago Policeman Goes to Jail
Chicago policeman William Cozzi was sentenced on Thursday (June 11th, 2009) to three years and four months in jail for beating a man in a wheelchair. Cozzi was caught on camera using a sap, which is like a blackjack, to beat a drunken man with stab wounds after handcuffing the man to the wheelchair. He later falsified records about the case, saying the victim was trying to attack him. This took place in the Norwegian American Hospital in Chicago during the August of 2005.
Cozzi served an 18-month probation sentence and was suspended from the police force for two years after pleading guilty to this misdemeanor charge. Jody Weis, Police Superintendent, referred the case to a federal judge recently. This angered many police officers, and it resulted in the sentencing that took place on Thursday.
"Police officers and the public need to understand that when people cross the line and assault someone and then lie about it, that has to be addressed, too. It may not be popular, but we have to do that," said U.S. Attorney Pat Fitzgerald.
Chicago government authorities are still trying to get Cozzi fired, but that hasn't happened yet. He should be fired, after all, he was charged with official misconduct and misdemeanor battery. Under Illinois law, a policeman can be fired for committing official misconduct.
The Fraternal Order of Police are complaining that the actions against Cozzi are unfair.
Every year ten thousand innocent people in the US are arrested and sentenced to jail time. Yet the police are crying that what is happening to Cozzi is unfair! What a case of the pot calling the kettle black. The police get away with too much, it's time to teach them a lesson in respect. If you ask me, Cozzi's sentence was unfair. He should have gotten more jail time.
Cozzi served an 18-month probation sentence and was suspended from the police force for two years after pleading guilty to this misdemeanor charge. Jody Weis, Police Superintendent, referred the case to a federal judge recently. This angered many police officers, and it resulted in the sentencing that took place on Thursday.
"Police officers and the public need to understand that when people cross the line and assault someone and then lie about it, that has to be addressed, too. It may not be popular, but we have to do that," said U.S. Attorney Pat Fitzgerald.
Chicago government authorities are still trying to get Cozzi fired, but that hasn't happened yet. He should be fired, after all, he was charged with official misconduct and misdemeanor battery. Under Illinois law, a policeman can be fired for committing official misconduct.
The Fraternal Order of Police are complaining that the actions against Cozzi are unfair.
Every year ten thousand innocent people in the US are arrested and sentenced to jail time. Yet the police are crying that what is happening to Cozzi is unfair! What a case of the pot calling the kettle black. The police get away with too much, it's time to teach them a lesson in respect. If you ask me, Cozzi's sentence was unfair. He should have gotten more jail time.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
BNP Attacked With Eggs
The British National Party, a party that is for whites only, tried to hold a press conference on Parliament lawn. They were met by dozens of angry protesters chanting anti-Nazi slogans and carrying placards.
The protesters surrounded Nick Griffin, BNP leader, and cornered him near a car. They then proceeded to throw a good 50 to 100 eggs at him. Griffin had only been speaking for about two minutes (two minutes too long).
There was a scuffle as protesters charged Griffin. A passing, non-combatant tourist suffered a leg injuring during the scuffle. The Metropolitan Police are ready to press charges for the BNP if they receive a complaint.
A protester from the UAF (Unite Against Fascism) had a message for the BNP.
"Wherever you go in this country we will make sure you are welcomed by demonstrations."
The BNP leader said the protesters didn't represent the majority of British people. But the UAF said, "The majority of people did not vote for the BNP, they did not vote at all," referring to the BNP's gain of two seats in the EU Parliament a few days ago.
So the majority is either with the UAF, or at least not with the BNP. The only reason the BNP recently won seats in the EU Parliament is because their members voted, while sane people realized the whole election deal was a ruling-class fraud.
The majority of protesters were from Unite Against Fascism. The UAF has received much applause from other anti-fascist groups because of this egg-action.
Click here for a video about this.
Republican Pedophile
Alan David Berlin, a Republican and former aide to now retired Senator Hal Mowery (Republican), has been accused of making sexual advances to a 15-year-old Harrisburg, Pennsylvania boy through internet chats. Berlin, age 40, discussed engaging in various sexual acts with the boy, including having sex in a panda costume. Pennsylvania state Attorney General Tom Corbett announced this today.
Berlin offered to get a hotel room if he could take naked pictures of the boy having sex with another adult. He also said he would come over to the boy's home when his parents left. Berlin knew very well that the boy was too young. The boy's parents became alarmed and contacted the authorities when they found sexual pictures on their son's computer.
Berlin was charged with unlawful contact with a minor, criminal attempted sexual exploitation of children, criminal solicitation to commit sexual abuse of children, and criminal use of a computer.
Alan Berlin was most recently an aide to Republican Senator Jane Clare.
These GOP people are hypocrites. First they cry that being gay is wrong and liberals are ruining the moral fabric of society, and then they go and try to molest kids! Republicans are the last people who should be speaking up for "morals" (and against homosexuality if they're going to molest male children).
For more information click here
Berlin offered to get a hotel room if he could take naked pictures of the boy having sex with another adult. He also said he would come over to the boy's home when his parents left. Berlin knew very well that the boy was too young. The boy's parents became alarmed and contacted the authorities when they found sexual pictures on their son's computer.
Berlin was charged with unlawful contact with a minor, criminal attempted sexual exploitation of children, criminal solicitation to commit sexual abuse of children, and criminal use of a computer.
Alan Berlin was most recently an aide to Republican Senator Jane Clare.
These GOP people are hypocrites. First they cry that being gay is wrong and liberals are ruining the moral fabric of society, and then they go and try to molest kids! Republicans are the last people who should be speaking up for "morals" (and against homosexuality if they're going to molest male children).
For more information click here
Monday, June 8, 2009
Clashes in Nepal and More
The UCPN (Maoist) has called for a shutdown strike in ten districts. This is part of their ongoing actions to try to get the Army Chief fired and to protest against Indian encroachment on Nepal. Local residents of Banepa clashed with the Maoist-affiliated TRMM. Some TRMM members and some locals were injured. The clashes happened after TRMM strike organizers tried to forcibly shutdown businesses and vandalize vehicles.
Maoist cadres obstructed traffic in the capital from 10 AM to 12 PM recently as part of their protests against the President's illegal move to reinstate the Army Chief. Nepal Educational Republic Front, a union of pro-Maoist teachers, also began protests with various demands.
The Indian SSB, a paramilitary group, has been violating Nepal's territorial integrity for some time now. Media reports in Kathmandu reported Wednesday that the SSB was involved in this violation of international law in an organized way. At least 6,000 Nepalis have been displaced by the SSB forcing them out of their homes. According to people seeking refuge in the Dang district, the SSB frequently kidnaps and rapes Nepali women. Some kidnapped people disappear forever.
Leaders of the Nepali Congress and UML (a group of pretend communists) have said that there is no Indian interference. Most Nepalis have accused the two groups of being Indian puppets. Prachanda, the Maoist leader, is right when he says the UML is a puppet for the foreign powers seeking to exploit Nepal, and this proves it.
Nepali media archives confirm that India has stolen more than 60,000 hectares of Nepal's land.
Maoist cadres obstructed traffic in the capital from 10 AM to 12 PM recently as part of their protests against the President's illegal move to reinstate the Army Chief. Nepal Educational Republic Front, a union of pro-Maoist teachers, also began protests with various demands.
The Indian SSB, a paramilitary group, has been violating Nepal's territorial integrity for some time now. Media reports in Kathmandu reported Wednesday that the SSB was involved in this violation of international law in an organized way. At least 6,000 Nepalis have been displaced by the SSB forcing them out of their homes. According to people seeking refuge in the Dang district, the SSB frequently kidnaps and rapes Nepali women. Some kidnapped people disappear forever.
Leaders of the Nepali Congress and UML (a group of pretend communists) have said that there is no Indian interference. Most Nepalis have accused the two groups of being Indian puppets. Prachanda, the Maoist leader, is right when he says the UML is a puppet for the foreign powers seeking to exploit Nepal, and this proves it.
Nepali media archives confirm that India has stolen more than 60,000 hectares of Nepal's land.
Pirates Win EU Seat
The Swedish Pirate Party, which ran on a platform of reforming copyright and patent laws, has secured a seat in the EU Parliament. They campaigned and won 7.1% of the Swedish vote.
"Last night, we gained political credibility," said Rickard Falkvinge, leader of the party.
"People were not taken in by the establishment and we got political trust from the citizens."
The Pirate Party is now negotiating with four other EU parliamentary groups.
"We're looking at four different EU Parliament groups," said Falkvinge, "However, we're probably going to join either the Green block or the ALDE group."
The Pirate Party wants to shorten the number of years you can hold a copyright on something, abolish patents, and restore the privacy that people worldwide lost as governments reacted to 9/11.
So the EU elections might have been bad, but they weren't one big loss. Us good guys gained some ground.
Reaction to Euro Election Results
As a reaction to the British National Party's gaining of two seats in the EU parliament, anti-Nazi protests have been called for in the UK for Liverpool, Manchester, and Sheffield.
Last night saw the white-nationalist British National Party (BNP) gain its first two seats in the European parliament. BNP candidate Andrew Brons, a former stalwart of the National Front and a lifelong Nazi, narrowly took the final MEP place in the Yorkshire & the Humber region. The fascists polled 120,139 votes, representing 9.8% of the vote as compared to 8.0% in 2004.
BNP leader Nick Griffin took the final MEP place in North West England in the early hours of today. Griffin, who has a criminal conviction for incitement to racial hatred, polled 132,094 across the region, or 8.0% of the vote as compared to 6.4% in 2004.
Peter Hain MP, secretary of state for Wales, said:
"It is a shameful stain on Britain that we now have racists and fascists representing our country. It is vital that everyone now isolates and confronts the BNP and works with Unite Against Fascism to defeat them."
Ken Livingstone, chair of Unite Against Fascism, said:
"The economic crisis and abuse of MPs' expenses have provided fertile ground for the extreme right. It is no surprise in these circumstances to see an electoral breakthrough for the BNP, a fascist party, in Britain."
"The BNP claims to be a normal political party. In fact they are 21st century Nazis. As in the 1930s they exploit people's anxieties in an economic crisis to scapegoat minorities and ultimately threaten all our democratic freedoms."
"Wherever the BNP wins elections, racist attacks increase. Nobody should use the BNP result as an excuse to capitulate to racism. That is exactly the approach which has helped them get this far and it would help to get them further."
"Unite Against Fascism is committed to the broadest progressive alliance against the BNP -- linking all democrats, trade unions, minority communities and the great majority of society against every kind of racism and fascism."
Weyman Bennett, joint secretary of Unite Against Fascism, said:
"This is a turning point in British politics. It is the most significant electoral success to date for a fascist party in this country. It threatens to normalize the presence of the BNP on the political scene in a similar manner to Jean-Marie Le Pen's Front National in France."
"We cannot allow this to happen. It is vital that we mobilize the largest possible mass movement across every walk of life to stop the fascist BNP and drive them out of the political mainstream."
"We have done this before when working people rose up in unity to defeat Oswald Mosley's British Union of Fascists in the 1930s. We did it in the 1970s when the Anti Nazi League drove the National Front of the streets. Now it is our duty to inflict the same defeat on the British National Party."
I wonder why the UAF didn't mention AntiFA. Certainly AntiFA, like the UAF and other groups, will play a very important role in defeating the BNP. There has been animosity between the two groups in the past, but they need to get over it now. If they don't want to work together, that is fine, but it is in the best interests of all people if all anti-fascist groups didn't insult each other like American presidential candidates do. You win fights by concentrating attacks on the enemy, not others who are irrelevant to you. Doing otherwise is just a waste of time for us, and a good opportunity for the fascists.
Originally from Spring Thunder 2009 (click here)
Cool Images
Here are some communist (and general leftist) pictures that I thought were cool. I made the "The World is Not Enough" pictures. I didn't make the others.
I'm just going to come out and say this. This is my attempt to see if pictures will help get more hits on the blog. If it works, then help me out. Please follow my blog and come back to check for news and reviews. I'll love you forever if you do, lol. Thank you.
I'm just going to come out and say this. This is my attempt to see if pictures will help get more hits on the blog. If it works, then help me out. Please follow my blog and come back to check for news and reviews. I'll love you forever if you do, lol. Thank you.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Gorbachev says U.S. needs Perestroika
Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev recently said that the United States needs its own perestroika. He said the US needs to carry out big reforms if it wants to meet modern environmental, economic, and social challenges.
"In the West, the breakup of the Soviet Union was viewed as a total victory that proved that the West did not need to change. Western leaders were convinced that they were at the helm of the right system and of a well-functioning, almost perfect economic model. Scholars opined that history had ended. The 'Washington Consensus,' the dogma of free markets, deregulation and balanced budgets at any cost, was force-fed to the rest of the world," wrote Gorbachev in a Washington Post article.
"But then came the economic crisis of 2008 and 2009, and it became clear that the new Western model was an illusion that benefited chiefly the very rich. Statistics show that the poor and the middle class saw little or no benefit from the economic growth of the past decades," the former Soviet leader continued.
"The model that emerged during the final decades of the 20th century has turned out to be unsustainable. It was based on a drive for super-profits and hyper-consumption for a few, on unrestrained exploitation of resources and on social and environmental irresponsibility."
Gorbachev is famous for helping destroy the Soviet Union and being a mixed-economy, neo-bourgeois sell-out. Under Gorbachev, a 1989 survey in the USSR found that only 19% of Soviet citizens had "confidence in tomorrow." Most people felt his economic policies were at fault for the economic problems that were considered current at the time.*
However, Gorbachev is right this time. The West needs to stop being so arrogant. It needs to criticize itself for once, and it needs real change. Unfortunately, the capitalist politicians will never bring this change. If the masses are lucky, they'll be met halfway. Real change comes from the barrel of a gun!
*Source for the survey: The New York Times, click here
"In the West, the breakup of the Soviet Union was viewed as a total victory that proved that the West did not need to change. Western leaders were convinced that they were at the helm of the right system and of a well-functioning, almost perfect economic model. Scholars opined that history had ended. The 'Washington Consensus,' the dogma of free markets, deregulation and balanced budgets at any cost, was force-fed to the rest of the world," wrote Gorbachev in a Washington Post article.
"But then came the economic crisis of 2008 and 2009, and it became clear that the new Western model was an illusion that benefited chiefly the very rich. Statistics show that the poor and the middle class saw little or no benefit from the economic growth of the past decades," the former Soviet leader continued.
"The model that emerged during the final decades of the 20th century has turned out to be unsustainable. It was based on a drive for super-profits and hyper-consumption for a few, on unrestrained exploitation of resources and on social and environmental irresponsibility."
Gorbachev is famous for helping destroy the Soviet Union and being a mixed-economy, neo-bourgeois sell-out. Under Gorbachev, a 1989 survey in the USSR found that only 19% of Soviet citizens had "confidence in tomorrow." Most people felt his economic policies were at fault for the economic problems that were considered current at the time.*
However, Gorbachev is right this time. The West needs to stop being so arrogant. It needs to criticize itself for once, and it needs real change. Unfortunately, the capitalist politicians will never bring this change. If the masses are lucky, they'll be met halfway. Real change comes from the barrel of a gun!
*Source for the survey: The New York Times, click here
Israeli PM May Have Peace Plans
Israeli PM Binyamin Netanyahu said he would lay out his peace plans regarding Palestine in a major policy speech next week (the week of June 14th). He was under pressure from the Obama administration to stop all settlement activity and support Palestinian statehood. The Israeli Prime Minister has so far refused to halt all settlement construction.
The Israeli PM did not give us any details regarding his plans or speech.
"It must be understood, we seek peace with the Palestinians and with the states of the Arab world while trying to reach maximum understanding with the United States and our friends abroad," Netanyahu said in a meeting with his cabinet.
Netanyahu has said Israel had an understanding with the Bush administration that allowed for the natural growth of families on settlements (which were illegal to begin with). He also said Obama is violating that agreement. Hillary Clinton, however, had this to say.
"That was never made a part of the official record of the negotiations, as it was passed on to our administration," Clinton said. "No one in the Bush administration said to anyone that we can find in our administration."
The Palestinians have refused to negotiate with Israel until they stop settlement expansion and support Palestinian statehood. The Palestinians want the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem to be part of their future state.
The Israeli PM did not give us any details regarding his plans or speech.
"It must be understood, we seek peace with the Palestinians and with the states of the Arab world while trying to reach maximum understanding with the United States and our friends abroad," Netanyahu said in a meeting with his cabinet.
Netanyahu has said Israel had an understanding with the Bush administration that allowed for the natural growth of families on settlements (which were illegal to begin with). He also said Obama is violating that agreement. Hillary Clinton, however, had this to say.
"That was never made a part of the official record of the negotiations, as it was passed on to our administration," Clinton said. "No one in the Bush administration said to anyone that we can find in our administration."
The Palestinians have refused to negotiate with Israel until they stop settlement expansion and support Palestinian statehood. The Palestinians want the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem to be part of their future state.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
"We are not intending to continue a policy of rewarding provocation" - Obama
Before attending the D-Day memorial ceremony in France, US President Obama said that North Korea's leaders will not get special treatment because of their nuclear tests. Obama called North Korea's missile tests "extraordinarily provocative" and said they pushed diplomacy to its limits.
"We are going to take a very hard look at how we move forward on these issues," Obama said after a meeting with French President Sarkozy. "We are not intending to continue a policy of rewarding provocation," he continued.
Obama said the UN is working on drawing up another resolution to victimize North Korea.
North Korea is believed to be preparing for another long-range missile test.
What Americans don't want to realize is that if you just leave North Korea alone, then they won't act "provocatively." They're doing this to get aid, which they badly need after all the economic harassment they've been put through. Sure, North Korea isn't perfect. It never will be, but that doesn't give the imperialists a right to slowly turn it into a graveyard.
"We are going to take a very hard look at how we move forward on these issues," Obama said after a meeting with French President Sarkozy. "We are not intending to continue a policy of rewarding provocation," he continued.
Obama said the UN is working on drawing up another resolution to victimize North Korea.
North Korea is believed to be preparing for another long-range missile test.
What Americans don't want to realize is that if you just leave North Korea alone, then they won't act "provocatively." They're doing this to get aid, which they badly need after all the economic harassment they've been put through. Sure, North Korea isn't perfect. It never will be, but that doesn't give the imperialists a right to slowly turn it into a graveyard.
Hamas Dating Service
Hamas loyalists in Gaza are running a matchmaking service called Tayseer Association for Marriage and Development in Gaza. 287 women have submitted photos and applications for a match so far. In the photos, some women are wearing headscarves, some smiling, and others looking startled.
"This is our vision of humanitarian work," Wael Zard, director of the Tayseer association, said. "This makes people close to Hamas and makes Hamas close to the people."
Life isn't all flowers and candy over in Gaza. Israel and Egypt are still running that two year-old blockade of Gaza, causing poverty to increase in that area. This means poor families are afraid of letting their working-daughters get married because they need her money. Richer Gazans, however, get to marry any woman they want without any trouble.
Unmarried women are usually treated poorly by their extended families, and it is hard for women to find work in Gaza. This makes marriage a necessity for the large majority of females in Gaza.
Most marriages are arranged by parents, and the idea of a female seeking love is unacceptable. Dating rarely occurs in Gaza because of this. Instead of saying they found a woman through the Tayseer Association, men simply say a "well-meaning stranger" informed them of a young woman looking for marriage.
This matchmaking service will help women in overly-conservative Gaza find mates in a more independent manner, but it is still very sexist. Women should not have to live in a world where their conditions make marriage mandatory for survival. Women should be free to seek love without consequences. They should be with whoever they truly love. The same goes for men. People everywhere should fight for such a world.
"This is our vision of humanitarian work," Wael Zard, director of the Tayseer association, said. "This makes people close to Hamas and makes Hamas close to the people."
Life isn't all flowers and candy over in Gaza. Israel and Egypt are still running that two year-old blockade of Gaza, causing poverty to increase in that area. This means poor families are afraid of letting their working-daughters get married because they need her money. Richer Gazans, however, get to marry any woman they want without any trouble.
Unmarried women are usually treated poorly by their extended families, and it is hard for women to find work in Gaza. This makes marriage a necessity for the large majority of females in Gaza.
Most marriages are arranged by parents, and the idea of a female seeking love is unacceptable. Dating rarely occurs in Gaza because of this. Instead of saying they found a woman through the Tayseer Association, men simply say a "well-meaning stranger" informed them of a young woman looking for marriage.
This matchmaking service will help women in overly-conservative Gaza find mates in a more independent manner, but it is still very sexist. Women should not have to live in a world where their conditions make marriage mandatory for survival. Women should be free to seek love without consequences. They should be with whoever they truly love. The same goes for men. People everywhere should fight for such a world.
Protests, Hypocrites, and Terrorists
17 members of the Westboro Baptist Church protested outside the funeral of Dr. George Tiller, who was murdered last Sunday (May 31, 2009) by anti-abortion activist Scott Roeder. Tiller was a provider of late-term abortions, making him very controversial and a frequent target for anti-abortion activists and terrorists.
The Westboro Baptist Church is famous for its large history of protesting anything it considers unChristian, including American soldiers' funerals. They have been declared a hate group, and they have even denied the Holocaust.
This reminds me of Jim Adkisson, the stupid, old, conservative man who went on a shooting spree in a liberal church. He brought 75 shells and planned on killing as many liberals as possible. Let's not forget Timothy Dale Johnson, the man who shot the Arkansas State Democratic Chairman in the Democrats' Arkansas headquarters.
What really gets me angry is all of this right-wing, conservative hypocrisy. They are always crying about how "liberals" (because they are too dumb to realize there are radicals and moderates out there too) are trying to violate their freedom of speech and other rights. Yet what do right-wingers do about this? They go out and shoot people! Isn't this what the "freedom-hating terrorists" do? Furthermore, it's quite hypocritical of the right-wing to violate other people's rights to life and free opinion by acts of terrorism when they are the ones crying about losing their rights! Let me sum this up so the miserable, right-wing monkeys can understand. Shooting average civilians who disagree with you is terrorism, and it is a hypocritical move to make after crying about "liberals" violating your freedom.
On to the subject of the Westboro Baptist Church protests. This is more right-wing hypocrisy. The right-wingers are always crying about not being respected. They cry their rights aren't being respected, and they cry that young people are disrespecting their elders (as if all people with wrinkles, including morons and Nazis, are somehow worthy of respect). The latter is the biggest one. Yet what do right-wingers do about this? They go disrespect a dead man's family's right to have a funeral in peace! They go and disrespect a dead man! Have they no decency!
Not to beat a dead horse, but it's also disrespectful of them to violate a person's right to free opinion and political activity by shooting them.
Let's not leave out how right-wingers love democracy, but they go around putting up misleading posters telling the Democrats to vote on the wrong day. They did this in Virginia during the recent elections in 2008, and they've done it in other places too. Tell me, you hypocritical monkeys, how is interfering with people's right to vote pro-democracy?
If you're a right-winger, then you need to face the facts. You are a childish hypocrite who lacks the ability to use logic and form intelligent thoughts. You are as pro-terrorist as someone who supports Al Qaeda, and yes, there is something wrong with you.
The Westboro Baptist Church is famous for its large history of protesting anything it considers unChristian, including American soldiers' funerals. They have been declared a hate group, and they have even denied the Holocaust.
This reminds me of Jim Adkisson, the stupid, old, conservative man who went on a shooting spree in a liberal church. He brought 75 shells and planned on killing as many liberals as possible. Let's not forget Timothy Dale Johnson, the man who shot the Arkansas State Democratic Chairman in the Democrats' Arkansas headquarters.
What really gets me angry is all of this right-wing, conservative hypocrisy. They are always crying about how "liberals" (because they are too dumb to realize there are radicals and moderates out there too) are trying to violate their freedom of speech and other rights. Yet what do right-wingers do about this? They go out and shoot people! Isn't this what the "freedom-hating terrorists" do? Furthermore, it's quite hypocritical of the right-wing to violate other people's rights to life and free opinion by acts of terrorism when they are the ones crying about losing their rights! Let me sum this up so the miserable, right-wing monkeys can understand. Shooting average civilians who disagree with you is terrorism, and it is a hypocritical move to make after crying about "liberals" violating your freedom.
On to the subject of the Westboro Baptist Church protests. This is more right-wing hypocrisy. The right-wingers are always crying about not being respected. They cry their rights aren't being respected, and they cry that young people are disrespecting their elders (as if all people with wrinkles, including morons and Nazis, are somehow worthy of respect). The latter is the biggest one. Yet what do right-wingers do about this? They go disrespect a dead man's family's right to have a funeral in peace! They go and disrespect a dead man! Have they no decency!
Not to beat a dead horse, but it's also disrespectful of them to violate a person's right to free opinion and political activity by shooting them.
Let's not leave out how right-wingers love democracy, but they go around putting up misleading posters telling the Democrats to vote on the wrong day. They did this in Virginia during the recent elections in 2008, and they've done it in other places too. Tell me, you hypocritical monkeys, how is interfering with people's right to vote pro-democracy?
If you're a right-winger, then you need to face the facts. You are a childish hypocrite who lacks the ability to use logic and form intelligent thoughts. You are as pro-terrorist as someone who supports Al Qaeda, and yes, there is something wrong with you.
Friday, June 5, 2009
54% of employers threaten workers
A recent study called "No Holds Barred: The Intensification of Employer Opposition to Organizing" found that...
* 63 percent of employers interrogated workers one-on-one with their supervisors about support for the union.
* 54 percent of employers threatened workers in such meetings.
* 47 percent of employers threatened to cut wages and benefits.
* 34 percent of employers fired workers.
* 63 percent of employers interrogated workers one-on-one with their supervisors about support for the union.
* 54 percent of employers threatened workers in such meetings.
* 47 percent of employers threatened to cut wages and benefits.
* 34 percent of employers fired workers.
Putin Saves Jobs By Force
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin paid an unfriendly visit to the town of Pikalyovo (also spelled Pikalevo), in the Leningrad region, on Thursday after crowds of angry workers took to the streets and blocked motorways because they were angry over their unpaid salaries. Three major businesses in the town had closed, causing most of the townspeople to lose their jobs and hot water.
Putin criticized the authorities of the Leningrad region when he arrived in Pikalyovo.
“If you can’t come to an agreement with each other to solve the problem, it will be done without you,” Putin said to the officials and the governor of the Leningrad region.
Putin forced the companies to get a bank loan and to pay all of the unpaid salaries, which added up to 41.2 million rubles. They had one day to pay up.
“Why did you make everything look like a dump here?” Putin asked local officials during the tour of the cement, alumina and chemical works enterprises. The enterprises belong to different owners. Oleg Deripaska’s Bazel is the largest one.
“The worst thing that they could do not to make me go there was to start violating the law. I think that it was done in collusion with those who did not want me to arrive in the town,” Putin said later in Moscow during a meeting with representatives from trade unions.
"You have made thousands of people hostage to your ambitions, your lack of professionalism - or maybe simply your trivial greed," Putin told Deripaska and two other Pikalyovo businessmen.
“Where is the social responsibility of business? Where is it? We keep talking about it non-stop. No one in the administration will ever convince me of the fact that the regional administration has done all they could to help the people. When I told you that I was going to come here, what did you tell me? You said that I shouldn’t, you said that you would show me a different enterprise. Why was everyone running about like cockroaches here before my arrival?” said Putin.
The workers now have their jobs and wages back, and the businesses will resume their activities.
I know Putin's plan wasn't the best, or as Marxist as I would have liked it to be, but it was still a pretty good move for a mixed-economy, semi-state-capitalist. Why can't Barack Obama do things like this?
Maoist Rebel News
In case you were wondering, no, I'm not going to talk about this blog. The Maoist Rebel News is something completely different. If you have kept up with both The Partisan and Maoist Rebel News, then you'll know we are proud news partners.
The Maoist Rebel News is a weekly, sometimes biweekly, show on YouTube done by article writer RedNickD (also known as RedNickII), reporter nightcrowred, and the revolutionary news anchor formerly known as Jason Unruhe. Every episode, as you could have guessed, delivers news from the communist perspective. We cover news regarding rebel groups of all forms, from the Nepali Maoists (now trying to make the peace process work) and the Filipino NPA to Hamas and LTTE (defeated). The episodes also talk about other issues like what the Democraps and Republican'ts are up to and what kind of craziness they're spending your money on.
If you're looking for news from the radical point-of-view, then check out the Maoist Rebel News on YouTube by clicking here.
The Maoist Rebel News is a weekly, sometimes biweekly, show on YouTube done by article writer RedNickD (also known as RedNickII), reporter nightcrowred, and the revolutionary news anchor formerly known as Jason Unruhe. Every episode, as you could have guessed, delivers news from the communist perspective. We cover news regarding rebel groups of all forms, from the Nepali Maoists (now trying to make the peace process work) and the Filipino NPA to Hamas and LTTE (defeated). The episodes also talk about other issues like what the Democraps and Republican'ts are up to and what kind of craziness they're spending your money on.
If you're looking for news from the radical point-of-view, then check out the Maoist Rebel News on YouTube by clicking here.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Hamas and Fatah Keep Fighting
Two Hamas militants and a Palestinian Authority policeman were killed in a shootout on Thursday. A similar episode happened on Sunday when six people died. Both incidents involved Hamas militants being holed up in a house trying to avoid arrest. Both fights took place in the West Bank city of Qalqilya.
On Wednesday, Hamas urged its fighters in the West Bank not to surrender to the security forces of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
"Our holy fighters will resist the detention attempts by the outlaw and unfaithful apparatuses," said a spokesman for the Hamas military wing in a statement to the media.
The spokesman called on the Ezz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades' members to deal with the West Bank police in the same way they would deal with the Israeli military.
Palestinian National Authority forces have stepped up raids against Hamas operatives in the West Bank.
On Wednesday, Hamas urged its fighters in the West Bank not to surrender to the security forces of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
"Our holy fighters will resist the detention attempts by the outlaw and unfaithful apparatuses," said a spokesman for the Hamas military wing in a statement to the media.
The spokesman called on the Ezz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades' members to deal with the West Bank police in the same way they would deal with the Israeli military.
Palestinian National Authority forces have stepped up raids against Hamas operatives in the West Bank.
Hamas Responds to Obama
Barack Obama recently gave a speech in Cairo directed at the Arab world, mainly Palestine. Republicans are crying that Obama compared Israel to Hamas. Hamas issued a response to Obama's speech.
"The essence of the speech was to improve the U.S. image and to placate the Muslims. We don't mind either objective, but we are looking for more than just mere words," Hamas leader Khaled Meshal said. "If the United States wishes to open a new page, we definitely would welcome this. We are keen to contribute to this. But we [believe that can not happen] merely with words. It must be with deeds, by changing the policy on the ground," said Meshal
Meshal criticized Obama's speech, saying that it didn't bring up issues that were important to Palestinians.
Hamas also sent a letter to Obama. They asked him to visit the Palestinian "ground zero," where Israel murdered over a thousand Palestinians. Hamas said they were open to talks with the West.
So Hamas will talk with the governments who are helping Israel kill their people, but they gave up on talks with Fatah and the West Bank. This doesn't seem right.
Did anyone else notice that Al Qaeda, who probably doesn't exist, used Obama's visit to the Middle East as an opportunity to conveniently threaten America, but Hamas, a "radical Islamic" group that we know exists and supposedly fights imperialism, is trying to be diplomatic? It kind of backs up the theory that Al Qaeda is an American tool used to scare people into supporting imperialist war in the Middle East.
"The essence of the speech was to improve the U.S. image and to placate the Muslims. We don't mind either objective, but we are looking for more than just mere words," Hamas leader Khaled Meshal said. "If the United States wishes to open a new page, we definitely would welcome this. We are keen to contribute to this. But we [believe that can not happen] merely with words. It must be with deeds, by changing the policy on the ground," said Meshal
Meshal criticized Obama's speech, saying that it didn't bring up issues that were important to Palestinians.
Hamas also sent a letter to Obama. They asked him to visit the Palestinian "ground zero," where Israel murdered over a thousand Palestinians. Hamas said they were open to talks with the West.
So Hamas will talk with the governments who are helping Israel kill their people, but they gave up on talks with Fatah and the West Bank. This doesn't seem right.
Did anyone else notice that Al Qaeda, who probably doesn't exist, used Obama's visit to the Middle East as an opportunity to conveniently threaten America, but Hamas, a "radical Islamic" group that we know exists and supposedly fights imperialism, is trying to be diplomatic? It kind of backs up the theory that Al Qaeda is an American tool used to scare people into supporting imperialist war in the Middle East.
Nepali Maoists Launch New Protests
The Unified CPN (Maoist) launched nationwide protests on Wednesday. They were protesting against President Dr Ram Baran Yadav's decision to reinstate the army chief who was sacked by the then Maoist-led government.
Maoist cadres staged two-hour sit-ins around the country. The Maoists said they will soon launch protests at VDC offices around the country. They are protesting to restore civilian supremacy.
Meanwhile, the pseudo-communist Prime Minister, MK Nepal, is trying to get the Maoists to calm down because he is afraid of their influence on the people. He also expressed his concern for the living conditions of the Nepali people.
"No matter how much the Maoists deliver tirades against me, I do not nurture animosity towards them. I urge them to tread on the path of the peace process," said Nepal on Sunday.
UML Chairman Khanal recently said that he supported sacking the Army Chief, but he wanted the Maoists to consult coalition partners about the procedures.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
OAS Lifts Ban on Cuba
The Organization of American States has lifted a 47 year-old ban on Cuban participation in the group. The ban was originally put in place due to Cold War tensions.
"The Cold War has ended this day in San Pedro Sula," said Honduran President Manuel Zelaya. "We begin a new era of fraternity and tolerance."
"The OAS was an accomplice to all the crimes committed against Cuba," said former Cuban leader Fidel Castro. Cuban officials are reluctant to join the OAS because they believe it is a tool of Washington.
The Cuban-born Florida Republicans, however, are very upset that the OAS lifted its ban on Cuba.
Venezuelan leader and Cuban ally Hugo Chavez praised this historic moment, but he was still concerned because the OAS is still US-dominated. Chavez said, "a new organization of Latin American and Caribbean countries must be created."
We should support Mr. Chavez's suggestion of a new organization of Latin American and Caribbean countries. Anything that will weaken American imperialism helps get the world revolution started.
"The Cold War has ended this day in San Pedro Sula," said Honduran President Manuel Zelaya. "We begin a new era of fraternity and tolerance."
"The OAS was an accomplice to all the crimes committed against Cuba," said former Cuban leader Fidel Castro. Cuban officials are reluctant to join the OAS because they believe it is a tool of Washington.
The Cuban-born Florida Republicans, however, are very upset that the OAS lifted its ban on Cuba.
Venezuelan leader and Cuban ally Hugo Chavez praised this historic moment, but he was still concerned because the OAS is still US-dominated. Chavez said, "a new organization of Latin American and Caribbean countries must be created."
We should support Mr. Chavez's suggestion of a new organization of Latin American and Caribbean countries. Anything that will weaken American imperialism helps get the world revolution started.
North Korean Missile Could Reach America
Reports say North Korea (DPRK) is assembling a missile that could reach Alaska and Hawaii. It could be tested as early as later this month. It's believed to be a version of the rocket fired in April. The missile might have a range of up to 6,500 kilometers.
The Pentagon says American anti-missile defenses are capable of intercepting the North Korean rocket. (So what exactly is the US afraid of? It's not like the North Koreans have the money or resources to make a missile capable of beating American defenses any time soon.)
Experts believe further missile tests will damage North Korea's relations with Russia and China. Winds could blow the radioactive remains from the missile towards other countries, including Russia, China, and Japan.
In 2006, when George W. Bush showed support for the development of Reliable Replacement Warheads, the international bourgeoisie did little to rally against the United States. Yet when the DPRK develops nuclear weapons it's a crime, and North Korea is treated as an evil regime.
Let me ask you this. Who carried out the illegal invasion of Iraq, which had support that never rose above eleven percent in any country other than itself? Which country blocked UN efforts to ban the militarization of space? In 2003, the fear of which country reached an all time high? The answer to all of these is the United States of America. Imperialist harassment from the US and its friends is the reason North Korea is acting this way. North Korea is certainly far from perfect, but the bigger criminals are in Washington D.C., not Pyongyang.
The Pentagon says American anti-missile defenses are capable of intercepting the North Korean rocket. (So what exactly is the US afraid of? It's not like the North Koreans have the money or resources to make a missile capable of beating American defenses any time soon.)
Experts believe further missile tests will damage North Korea's relations with Russia and China. Winds could blow the radioactive remains from the missile towards other countries, including Russia, China, and Japan.
In 2006, when George W. Bush showed support for the development of Reliable Replacement Warheads, the international bourgeoisie did little to rally against the United States. Yet when the DPRK develops nuclear weapons it's a crime, and North Korea is treated as an evil regime.
Let me ask you this. Who carried out the illegal invasion of Iraq, which had support that never rose above eleven percent in any country other than itself? Which country blocked UN efforts to ban the militarization of space? In 2003, the fear of which country reached an all time high? The answer to all of these is the United States of America. Imperialist harassment from the US and its friends is the reason North Korea is acting this way. North Korea is certainly far from perfect, but the bigger criminals are in Washington D.C., not Pyongyang.
Your Imaginary Friends are at it Again
Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden has released a new audio tape where he questions Barack Obama's intentions in the Middle East.
"Obama has chosen to follow in his predecessor's path, increasing hostility against the Muslim world and further conflict. We address the American people and tell them they will suffer the consequences of their president's actions," said Osama Bin Laden.
Why haven't they caught Osama yet? Because they either don't want to or he doesn't exist. If you study the history of Al Qaeda, then you'll see that they are most likely working for the American government. Al Qaeda shows up every so often, maybe once a year, and bombs something then releases a message full of worthless trash-talk. They probably do this for the US government so the American politicians can use the "terror attacks" to scare the American people, and the rest of the world, into supporting American crimes and lies.
"The truth is, there is no Islamic army or terrorist group called Al Qaeda. And any informed intelligence officer knows this. But there is a propaganda campaign to make the public believe in the presence of an identified entity representing the 'devil' only in order to drive the 'TV watcher' to accept a unified international leadership for a war against terrorism. The country behind this propaganda is the US and the lobbyists for the US war on terrorism are only interested in making money." - Maj. Pierre-Henri Bunel, former agent for the French military intelligence
"Obama has chosen to follow in his predecessor's path, increasing hostility against the Muslim world and further conflict. We address the American people and tell them they will suffer the consequences of their president's actions," said Osama Bin Laden.
Why haven't they caught Osama yet? Because they either don't want to or he doesn't exist. If you study the history of Al Qaeda, then you'll see that they are most likely working for the American government. Al Qaeda shows up every so often, maybe once a year, and bombs something then releases a message full of worthless trash-talk. They probably do this for the US government so the American politicians can use the "terror attacks" to scare the American people, and the rest of the world, into supporting American crimes and lies.
"The truth is, there is no Islamic army or terrorist group called Al Qaeda. And any informed intelligence officer knows this. But there is a propaganda campaign to make the public believe in the presence of an identified entity representing the 'devil' only in order to drive the 'TV watcher' to accept a unified international leadership for a war against terrorism. The country behind this propaganda is the US and the lobbyists for the US war on terrorism are only interested in making money." - Maj. Pierre-Henri Bunel, former agent for the French military intelligence
New Hampshire Allows Gay Marriage
New Hampshire became the sixth state to pass legislation allowing same-sex marriage. Governor John Lynch, a Democrat, signed the bill on Wednesday afternoon.
"Today, we are standing up for the liberties of same-sex couples by making clear that they will receive the same rights, responsibilities — and respect — under New Hampshire law," said Lynch.
The law allows religious groups and churches to decide whether or not they want to perform religious same-sex marriages or give benefits to same-sex spouses. This law will allow civil and religious marriages for same-sex couples. Gay couples already in civil unions will now be recognized as being in a "civil marriage."
This law will take effect on January 1, 2010. Rhode Island is now the only state in New England to not allow gay marriage.
This event in New Hampshire is a step in the right direction, and, even though it won't guarantee complete equality, is a sign of progress. It must be defended at all costs from the Republicans, Nazis, and all like-minded bigots. Or, as the motto of New Hampshire goes, "Live free or die!"
"Today, we are standing up for the liberties of same-sex couples by making clear that they will receive the same rights, responsibilities — and respect — under New Hampshire law," said Lynch.
The law allows religious groups and churches to decide whether or not they want to perform religious same-sex marriages or give benefits to same-sex spouses. This law will allow civil and religious marriages for same-sex couples. Gay couples already in civil unions will now be recognized as being in a "civil marriage."
This law will take effect on January 1, 2010. Rhode Island is now the only state in New England to not allow gay marriage.
This event in New Hampshire is a step in the right direction, and, even though it won't guarantee complete equality, is a sign of progress. It must be defended at all costs from the Republicans, Nazis, and all like-minded bigots. Or, as the motto of New Hampshire goes, "Live free or die!"
Monday, June 1, 2009
GM Update
Car-maker General Motors is now in bankruptcy protection, and the American government is now in the GM driver's seat. 60% of the company is now owned by the US government, and 12.5% is owned by the Canadian government. If all goes according to plan, the United Auto Workers union will get 17.5% of GM. GM is now the largest industrial company to ever enter bankruptcy. Because of GM's fall, 21,000 jobs and 2,600 dealers have been lost.
"We are acting as reluctant shareholders because that is the only way to help GM succeed," said President Obama.
Nobody is sure how long these governments will be in control of GM. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said he doesn't know if there is a timeline.
"We don't have a specific timetable, we don't have a specific deadline," said Steve Rattner, head of the White House's auto task force.
On top of the $30 billion GM has recently received from the US, it will also get $9.5 billion from Canada.
"GM will be run by a private board of directors and management team," Obama said. "They — and not the government — will call the shots and make the decisions about how to turn this company around. The federal government will refrain from exercising its rights as a shareholder in all but the most fundamental corporate decisions."
Chrysler LLC also went into bankruptcy court. Ford Motor Corp is the only member of the "big three" to avoid bankruptcy restructuring and has not taken federal bail out money.
"We are acting as reluctant shareholders because that is the only way to help GM succeed," said President Obama.
Nobody is sure how long these governments will be in control of GM. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said he doesn't know if there is a timeline.
"We don't have a specific timetable, we don't have a specific deadline," said Steve Rattner, head of the White House's auto task force.
On top of the $30 billion GM has recently received from the US, it will also get $9.5 billion from Canada.
"GM will be run by a private board of directors and management team," Obama said. "They — and not the government — will call the shots and make the decisions about how to turn this company around. The federal government will refrain from exercising its rights as a shareholder in all but the most fundamental corporate decisions."
Chrysler LLC also went into bankruptcy court. Ford Motor Corp is the only member of the "big three" to avoid bankruptcy restructuring and has not taken federal bail out money.
Kim Jong Il's youngest son named successor
According to South Korean lawmakers and intelligence reports, Kim Jong Un has been named Kim Jong Il's successor. 26 year-old Kim Jong Un is Kim Jong Il's youngest son.
The young Kim reportedly studied English, French, and German at the International School of Berne in Switzerland under the alias "Pak Chol" until 1998. Jong Un reportedly likes to ski and is a Michael Jordan fan. His classmates remember him as being timid and friendly. A sushi chef that formerly served Kim Jong Il, wishing to go by the name Kenji Fujimoto, said that Jong Un looks and acts just like Kim Jong Il. That is all the world knows about him at the moment.
Analysts worry that a power struggle will take place in North Korea, causing chaos in the Juche country, if Kim Jong Il suddenly dies.
This month North Korea began a campaign to build up their economy. They call it the "150-day campaign." Some analysts believe this is being done to help the new leader get his reign started.
The young Kim reportedly studied English, French, and German at the International School of Berne in Switzerland under the alias "Pak Chol" until 1998. Jong Un reportedly likes to ski and is a Michael Jordan fan. His classmates remember him as being timid and friendly. A sushi chef that formerly served Kim Jong Il, wishing to go by the name Kenji Fujimoto, said that Jong Un looks and acts just like Kim Jong Il. That is all the world knows about him at the moment.
Analysts worry that a power struggle will take place in North Korea, causing chaos in the Juche country, if Kim Jong Il suddenly dies.
This month North Korea began a campaign to build up their economy. They call it the "150-day campaign." Some analysts believe this is being done to help the new leader get his reign started.
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