Visiting the Demonstrators

I took the opportunity to go and see both demonstration camps. First I visited the pro-Government tent city in Tahrir Square.

There is a large police presence and a series of long tents with signs letting all know who they are - the sons of Amran, or the sons of Raima etc. The face of the president is plastered on all large flat spaces and vehicles. Trade and daily business continues although restricted in speed of movement caused by all the extra tentage and people in the square. One nice touch is the folkloric displays down in the car-park bus area where you can purchace all types of traditional arts, jewellery and clothing.

Taking a trip to the anti-Government camp is not as free due to their security concerns, as they have been attacked a number of times by government supporters and a number killed. There are walls of men at each entrance - Dairi street near Jeel al-Jadeed bookstore, the other side of Dairi street half way to City Mart, Mahkama street that heads to Tahrir and at the pedestrian gate of Sana'a University. The walls are 3 deep of shoulder to shoulder youths to check anyone wishing to enter, there are also women stationed at each entrance to check any female passers-by.

Once past the security cordon, you will find a tent city bigger than in Tahrir, and a slightly more cheerful atmosphere. You will not find any pictures of the president here. On the centre monument loud speakers are set up for speakers and rally cries. There is plenty of food available. I passed through after thuhr prayer time and so many people were crashed out in the tents chewing qat.

At the moment the rallies are being peaceful and the President has ordered supporters not to harm or bother the anti-Government protesters. This is an important step by the President not just to ensure peaceful protests but to show that he is allowing dissent and people to voice their opinions against the state,

It is unclear how long these protests will continue, some say another week, others say not until the President steps down.