Anti-Government Demonstrations - Sana'a Yemen

Post by al-Ghariba

I was on my way to the Science and Technology University thinking it will be ok because the roads there are only blocked off until the intersection, but as I walked up Cairo Street I saw the demonstration had expanded down to Eagle Tourist Hotel and up past the Science and Tech Uni Girls Section. And the University was locked up.

I sat for a while talking with one of the women checking women entering the area for contraban (weapons) and then after being told by her that there are plenty of women at the demonstration, decided to enter into the demonstration area.

The mood and tempo had moved on so much since I last entered the area a few days ago. It was very serious now, and as I walked the "first kilometre to freedom" I was passed by protesters covered in blood and some with head injuries. A way had been permanently cleared for ambulances which were still zooming in and out of the area taking out the injured.

Those guarding the entrances to the area had set up small middens of stones ready incase of confrontation with security forces. It was clear that many stones had been thrown before I had arrived as they lay scattered down the road.

As I made my way to the Hikmah Yemenia Obelisk I was amazed at the good manners of the men in making sure they cleared a way for me as I walked through the crowd to the womens' area.

I stood in the womens' area for no more than a minute when the crowd errupted as an Army Colonel and a General were carried upon the shoulders of the demonstrators to the stage - They had defected to join the anti-government protesters. The General addressed the crowd, encouraging them to continue thet struggle, and exposing some of the sins of the army at the hands of the regime.

The atmosphere was indescribable. I was moved to tears. I wished I could have stayed but it is not a good idea for foreigners to participate in these types of political uprisings, especially when the government security forces are still so active. The most dangerous part of attending a political demonstration is leaving one, because that is when you are most likely to be followed and disappeared on your way home.

Allah barik ala al-Yemenieen wa yansoorahum ala al-qaum al-dhalimeen!