If any of you are following Nigerien politics, which who knows, you may be since you care about us, and we're here:) then I feel obliged to address it here. Presently, the president is vying for an unconstitutional 3rd term in office. Maybe power is so tasty it's hard to let go, but his ideas are getting a chilly reception from the public. If you look at the history of military coups in this country, you'd probably rethink jerking around this particular population. Somehow however, this little bit of history eludes the current president. On Friday, the court ruled (again- this is the 2nd time) against the president changing the constitution in order to run for a third term and to do so would constitute a "political coup." On Sunday there was a demonstration in Niamey, but we the people simply stayed home and ignored it. There was a march yesterday in support of the opposition to the president's referendum, which we could hear, but did not attend. As folks here say, "ca chauffe!" yes, it is heating up and making us a little bit, but not terribly nervous. Cheikh is the Security Agent for MC, among everything else, so the good part is that he's kept very well informed and if things get hairy (more than college kids chanting slogans and breaking stuff,) we'll be the first to know (via C's sattelite phone:)
Here's a link to Niger 1's website for more in depth political info: http://niger1.com/?p=866
On a more personal note, K is enjoying school now. He didn't even wait for his bisou this morning before running off to find his buddies, sniff. I've started to write and make friends, but that part is complicated since all the Euro ladies I've met are headed back there for the summer. lame. Next summer, we too plan to head back to the states for vacation, but for now, we're looking as hard as we can for local friends. Just a typical week in paradise so far. Went to the market again today, since I was told there may be a strike tomorrow. Mangoes are still in season and heavenly as ever. We're all happy and healthy. Alhamdoulilah!
love to you and yours!
I've been following, and interested! Thanks for your perspective, it's really good to know! :)
ReplyDeleteMangoes. Oh I love them. I'm allergic, so I get a horrible rash on my face if my skin touches their skin, but I love them anyway. I eat them like a kissing fish with a fork. ;)
loves to you all!