AFGHANISTAN- Dr. Abdullah Abdullah- the Nelson Mandela of Afghanistan- The next President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan untitled- April 5, 2014
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CANADA MILITARY NEWS: Aug 30- Afghanistan News Updates/Nato Troops need protecting/Stop babying NewAgeNazi Muslim Monsters of NO RULES PLS/Canada military news/Nato troop news/Syria- NO way
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CANADA MILITARY NEWS: Aug 30- Afghanistan News Updates- the good bad and ugly/Nato troops news
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Neighbourhood watch: Karzai’s visit polarises opinion
By Tahir Khan
Published: August 31, 2013
ISLAMABAD:
Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s recent visit to Pakistan has garnered a mixed reaction from the other side of the border.
Afghans are unsure whether the president achieved any success in what he hoped to accomplish or returned empty-handed. The debate in Afghan print and electronic media is also swinging between pessimism and optimism.
On the other hand, officials from both countries insist Karzai’s visit – unlike the ones in the past – was not a failure, even though nothing was announced with regard to dialogue with the Afghan Taliban.
A statement issued by Karzai’s press office stated the president hopes Pakistan would take "specific and practical steps" on issues discussed during the talks. However, it did not comment on what exactly was discussed and agreed.
The Afghan presidential palace said Karzai’s visit focused on the peace process in Afghanistan, security issues and efforts to pave way for talks between the government-backed Afghan High Peace Council and the ‘armed opponents,’ a term the Afghan government uses to refer to the Taliban.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry spokesperson Aizaz Chaudhry reiterated the country’s official position, saying Islamabad supports the peace process in Afghanistan. Disagreeing with a question during a press briefing, he said: "I do not share your assessment that President Karzai’s visit was not successful. We believe it was a highly successful visit."
Some political experts in Afghanistan remain sceptical. They claim political governments in Pakistan do not have power to make decisions about Afghanistan. Pro-government private newspaper Weesa said it was too early to judge; and major differences between the two countries cannot be addressed during just one visit.
There was also optimism. "The 20th visit of Hamid Karzai to Pakistan has created a good opportunity for that country to win the trust of Afghanistan and the international community," said state-owned Afghan daily Anis in an editorial on August 27.
Referring to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s comments that stability in Afghanistan was in Pakistan’s interest, the editorial advised Afghans to be patient. Hewad, another state-owned daily, expressed similar sanguinity.
Independent daily Cheragh welcomed the visit. "The president’s trip is a good move. Despite difficulties and distrust, such a relationship and expansion of ties and talks between the two neighbouring countries is vital," read an August 27 editorial. However, the paper remained critical of Karzai for failing to adopt a balanced approach in maintaining relations with Pakistan and India.
"There is no doubt Afghanistan has given preference in maintaining greater relations with India and has disregarded Pakistan’s security concerns. This is completely unacceptable to Pakistan. Pakistan finds it hard to digest [the fact] that Afghanistan signed its first strategic agreement with India followed by 20 more strategic agreements with other countries, while rejecting Pakistan’s request for similar agreements," said the paper.
Afghan parliamentarian Shukria Barakzai said lack of clarity between the two neighbours is one reason for mistrust. "The problem is lack of transparency and a kind of vagueness in talks between Kabul and Islamabad. Both countries should clearly list their demands and expectations," she said.
Other papers hinted the one-day extension in Karzai’s visit was an indication of progress.
Ismail Qasemyar, advisor to the peace council’s committee on foreign relations, said the talks might produce positive results. "The council cautiously expresses optimism about this visit. We believe a change can be seen in views expressed by Pakistani officials in the new government, though this can be a tactical approach," he told the Afghan state TV.
Karzai’s political opponents view his visit with suspicion. National Front of Afghanistan Deputy Spokesman Sardar Mohammad Rahimi claimed the president – to some extent – wants to get Pakistan’s support for his favoured political candidate in post-2014 Afghanistan."
Published in The Express Tribune, August 31st, 2013.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/597561/neighbourhood-watch-karzais-visit-polarises-opinion/
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NEW.... God bless the Nelson Mandela of Afghanistan- youth and elders and everyday Afghans adore Dr. Abdullah Abdullah...
THE NELSON MANDELA OF AFGHANISTAN- Dr. Abdullah Abdullah - next President of Islamic Republic of Afghansitan- UN and Politicians...u hijacked his win in 2009 whilst boots 2 the ground and Afghans helplessly watched u and the 'bought global media (u all remember Rwanda- 100 days of media silence- 800,000 butchered- Shake hands with the Devil- Romeo Dallaire the Saviour of Rwanda wrote about UN and Politicians REFUSING 2 step up and help) fools' who betrayed democracy... again...
Well the best loved Afghan- the Nelson Mandela of youth, poor and elder Afghans, says... IT'S HAPPENING AGAIN.. AFGHANISTAN'S ELECTION APRIL 5 2014- the world needs 2 step up this time ... please
News - Afghanistan
AEA Worried About IEC Autonomy and Electoral Fraud
Saturday, 31 August 2013 20:03 Written by Karim Amini
The newly formed Afghanistan Electoral Alliance (AEA) on Saturday expressed concerns with the government's influence on the functioning of the Independent Election Commission (IEC) and the outcome of the upcoming elections.
As the Presidential election next spring draws near, fears of possible electoral fraud and manipulation are becoming an increasingly hot topic of debate. Memories of widely documented fraud in the 2009 Presidential elections, which was closely contested between President Hamid Karzai and Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, are still fresh in the minds of many Afghans.
"The present government came to power through unfair means, which clearly indicates the extent to which it is committed to holding the elections in a transparent manner," Dr. Abdullah, now the head of the National Coalition and a member of the AEA, told TOLOnews.
Dr. Abdullah, who refused to take part in the second run-off of the 2009 election due to allegations of widespread fraud on the part of Karzai, went further to claim that the government has already infringed on the integrity of the electoral process and the decision making of the IEC.
"Regarding intervention in the electoral process, the government has interfered since the very beginning. For instance, its disagreement with and outright rejection of some articles in the Law of Functioning and Governing of the IEC and the Election Law," he said.
However, the IEC assured that it would not allow any person or group, including the government, to intervene in its management of the election. IEC officials reassured that no IEC staff would work for the benefit of any specific nominee in the upcoming elections.
"It will be a transparent process and people's vote will determine the destiny of the candidates," said Noor Mohammad Noor, Spokesman of the IEC.
The nomination filing process is scheduled to begin on September 16 and will end on October 6. Political parties and coalitions have already begun to align and announce their intentions for the elections.
To be officially registered by the IEC, candidates have to provide signatures, fingerprints or voter card numbers of 100,000 individuals from at least 18 different provinces.
In light of the documentations and eligibility criteria, the IEC made it clear that if any nominee failed to provide the required number of voter cards within the specified timeline, their candidacy would be out rightly rejected.
http://www.tolonews.com/en/afghanistan/11745-aea-worried-about-iec-autonomy-and-electoral-fraud
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Befriend Afghan ethnic groups to avert civil war: Lahore Forum
LAHORE - At a meeting of the Lahore Forum held under the chairmanship of former foreign minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI)’s International Relations Advisor Mian Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri, the participants were of the view that the economy, energy crisis, internal security, drone attacks and dialogue with the Taliban are critical challenges faced by the government.
The session was attended by prominent intellectuals, analysts and media anchors/columnists including Begum Mehnaz Rafi, Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami, Irshad Arif, Saeed Aasi, Amir Khakwani, Prof Rasul Buksh Raees, Prof Dr Hasan Askari Rizvi, Brig (r) Farooq Hameed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salim Bukhari, Sajjad Mir, Asadullah Ghalib, Mazhar Qayyum, Salman Abid and Tanwir Shahzad.
The forum was of the view that Pakistan should desist from having favourites in Afghanistan and should try and develop friendly relations with all ethnic groups in Afghanistan including Pashtuns, Tajiks, Uzbeks and Hazaras. The members of the forum said that this would help bring together the key stakeholders including the Afghan Taliban and ethnic groups that in the past supported the former Northern Alliance in the Civil War following the Geneva Accords. They were of the view that it was in Pakistan’s interest to take all steps to prevent another civil war in Afghanistan following the drawdown of US troops by the end of 2014. The members feared that in such an eventuality, besides Afghanistan, Pakistan would be the major sufferer as it was during the last civil war. The participants opined that unless appropriate steps were taken, the neighbouring countries including Iran, China and even Russia might be drawn into the civil war to back their respective allies and that this would be detrimental not just to the interests of Pakistan but of the peace and security of the entire region. The members of the forum were of the view that Afghan Taliban were unlikely to accept US forces remaining in American bases in Afghanistan after 2014. They also felt that the presence of Indian army trainers/ advisors in Afghanistan will add to instability since their presence would not be acceptable to the Afghan Taliban.
http://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2013/08/31/city/lahore/befriend-afghan-ethnic-groups-to-avert-civil-war-lahore-forum/
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Pakistan government in secret talks with Taliban
Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - "Unofficial talks between the government side and Taliban are in progress," Information Minister Pervez Rashid told media. He said the government was exploring all options to restore lasting peace to the country and was in contact with Taliban at different levels.
He endorsed a statement made by Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman that a formula had been chalked out for holding formal talks with Taliban within a month.
Earlier, the JUI-F chief had told reporters in Parliament House that a forum comprising authoritative and responsible people was being formed for holding talks with Taliban within a month.
The information minister did not say at what level talks had been initiated and with which group of militants. But, he said the government was ready to negotiate with any group of Taliban interested in holding talks.
"I cannot say with which group of Taliban we are holding talks because today we are talking with two groups and if another group wants to join we will welcome it too," he said.
Mr Rashid said the government’s main objective was to restore peace and it would do everything possible to achieve that. "We have to rid the country of the menace of terrorism for which all options would be utilised."
Earlier, the government had announced that it would hold an all-party conference to seek proposals for a formula under which talks could be initiated with Taliban. But the conference has not taken place for one reason or the other.
It may be mentioned that leaders of major opposition parties including the PPP, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, Awami National Party and the PML-Q have supported the decision to hold talks with militants.
When contacted, JUI-F spokesman Jan Achakzai said the government had established some contacts with Taliban. "Certain steps have been taken behind the curtain."
Meanwhile, a senior Taliban leader has confirmed that initial contacts between the militants and the government had been made. He told media that the talks encompassing a wide range of issues including prevention of sectarian violence and snapping of ties with Al Qaeda and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi had been held.
http://www.abna.co/data.asp?lang=3&id=457764
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"Active Participation In Elections, Means Ensuring The People’s Rights", Khalili
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Kabul (BNA) The social council of Gajur ethnic group met Mohammad Karim Khalili Second Vice-President and shared their problems with him.
The elders of Gajur urged government authorities for implementation of the presidential decree for provision of residential land plots for this ethnic group in center and provinces, establishing of health clinics, provision of educational scholarships and dormitory facilities for students of the Gajurs.
They also asked the authorities to address their problems of displacement impose by oppressors of Takhar province.
They also insisted on their involvements in government posts.
Touching on the affected people of the clan in natural disaster, they asked for provision of emergency aid through the national disaster committee.
At the meeting Khalili called Gajur people as brave and hardworking people of Afghanistan assuring them that he is aware about their problems.
While, congratulating the elders for formation of the social council, Khalili emphasized on further strengthening of the council.
Khalili added that a good opportunity has been created under the new era for progress of Afghanistan and stressed that we shall overcome the problems and challenges.
He encouraged Gajurs to participate in the election by receiving voting cards.
http://www.bakhtarnews.com.af/eng/politics/item/8793-%E2%80%9Cactive-participation-in-elections-means-ensuring-the-people%E2%80%99s-rights%E2%80%9D-khalili.html
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AFGHANISTAN- Dr. Abdullah Abdullah- the next President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan- Dr. Abdullah is the Nelson Mandela of Afghanistan- youth and elders love him.... his bloodlines bleed throughout all of Afghanistan's remarkable history
TRUTH BE TOLD- by troops and everyday Afghans- Dr. Abdullah Abdullah won 2009 election which was hijacked by United Nations and USA.... BUT NOT THIS TIME.... April 5 2014
asia:
Karzai calls for head-to-head race in Afghan election
AFP
Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Saturday called for next year's crucial election to be a US-style head-to-head contest between two candidates, and named three possible runners in the wide-open race.
The April 5 election to succeed Karzai, who has ruled since the Taliban hardliners were ousted in 2001, is seen as the key test whether 12 years of massive international military and aid intervention has been worthwhile.
"My desire is that we should have a limited number of candidates as this is good for the country," Karzai told a press conference in his palace gardens. "In the United States there were only two candidates.
"If we have two presidential candidates, it would be better, but if we had four that is also not a problem."
After serving two terms, Karzai must stand down next year for an election that will be the first ever democratic transfer of power in Afghanistan. But there is widespread uncertainty over who and how many people will run.
More than 40 candidates stood in the chaotic 2009 election, which was marred by massive fraud and delays until Karzai emerged triumphant.
Karzai named controversial former warlord Abdul Rasul Sayyaf, 2009 runner-up Abdullah Abdullah and former finance minister Ashraf Ghani as possible candidates.
"There are others as well, I don't want to leave any names unmentioned but it is not possible for me to mention them all," he said.
Other potential runners include Qayum Karzai, the president's brother, Omar Daudzai, the ambassador to Pakistan, and former interior minister Ali Ahmad Jalali.
Karzai appealed to all Afghans to register to vote and repeated his call for the insurgent fighters who wage a guerilla war against international and Afghan soldiers to participate in the election.
"Even the Taliban can join this process," he said. "If they use voting cards, they would be able to prove their power more effectively than they do today."
The Taliban have vowed to step up attacks ahead of the withdrawal of NATO-led coalition forces by the end of next year, and their leader Mullah Omar last month dismissed the elections as "a waste of time".
Karzai rejected Omar's claim said that Afghan elections were decided in Washington, saying "that's not right, the White House tried in 2009 but it failed" -- a reference to alleged US interference in the vote.
Karzai has pledged to work to ensure the election is credible, but international donors have expressed concern about whether the vote will produce a transparent result accepted by defeated candidates.
"If we have good elections that would be good for my legacy," Karzai said.
"I will definitely help the process and not interfere. I will try to provide grounds for free and democratic elections and will allow no one to interfere or use governmental power in favour of any presidential candidates."
The president also said that Afghanistan would not be rushed over negotiations for a security agreement on the United States' military presence in the country after 2014.
"We are not in a hurry, if it happens in my government it will be good, if not, the new president can discuss it and either accept or reject it," he said.
Washington is pushing hard for the pact to be signed by October, but Karzai suspended talks in June in fury at the Taliban opening a liaison office in Qatar that was presented as an embassy for a government in waiting.
On Saturday he said that only "technical level" negotiations had ever been suspended, but that other talks had continued and a new draft document was now being examined.
Karzai plans to put the proposed Bilateral Security Agreement before a Loya Jirga (grand assembly) for public approval before signing it.
In previous elections, the Taliban called on Afghans to boycott voting, sent fighters to block roads to polling stations and targeted candidates and activists.
and..
http://www.daily-sun.com/index.php?view=details&archiev=yes&arch_date=25-08-2013&type=Karzai-calls-for-head-to-head-race-in-Afghan-election&pub_no=595&cat_id=1&menu_id=15&news_type_id=1&index=4
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News - Afghanistan
"Afghanistan Electoral Alliance" Officially Announced for Presidential Vote
Friday, 30 August 2013 17:58 Last Updated on Friday, 30 August 2013 18:30 Written by Saleha Soadat
alt
A number of political leaders gathered on Thursday to announce the formation of a new electoral alliance. The coalition of major political parties has been named as the "Afghanistan Electoral Alliance (AEA)."
The alliance has been formed by the Islamic People's Party (IPP), Wahdat-e-Islami Party, National Movement of Afghanistan (NMA), National Coalition of Afghanistan (NCA), National Front Party (NFP), Afghanistan Green Trend (AGT), Afghanistan Naween (AN), Hezb-e-Wahdat, Iqtidar-e-Millie, Itehad-i-Aqwam and Coordination Council of Arab People (CCAP).
Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, leader of the NCA; Atta Muhammad Noor, Governor of Balkh province; Haji Mohammad Mohaqeq, leader of the IPP; Abdul Rasheed Dostum, head of the Junbesh Milli Party (JMP); Salahuddin Rabbani, acting head of the Jameyat Party (JP); Amrullah Saleh, former Director of the National Directorate of Security (NDS); Ahmad Zia Massood, head of the NFP; and Muhammad Younus Qanooni, a member of the JP, were some of the prominent political leaders who attended the meeting and signed a political agreement for the newly formed alliance.
The AEA announced that soon it will nominate a candidate for the Presidential elections, which is scheduled to take place on April 5, 2014.
The agreement states that steps would be taken in order to ensure reforms take place in the current political system; there is increased participation of people in the political, social and economic arena; there is balanced development and fair distribution of power.
"Signatories of this agreement, predict clear written commitment with regard to the rights and functioning of the parties and groups who are a part of the Electoral Alliance.
The signatories of this agreement will be the key players in selecting the Presidential candidate and the Vice- Presidents. Decisions would be based on unanimous votes," said Abdul Sata Murad, a member of the IPP.
It is being reportedly said that Mr. Khalilzad, Mr. Jalali, Qayoum Karzai and the Haq-o-Adalat Party did not agree to become a part of the AEA. However, the leaders of the Alliance are putting in efforts to get them on board.
In light of the latest announcement about the AEA, a number of political analysts expressed scepticism over its success. According to the analysts, such alliances are temporary and show no sign of stability, which could act as an anchor for the political system of Afghanistan.
After the alliance was announced, Mr. Jalali stated that this coalition must try to meet all the ideals and aspirations of the Afghans. He emphasized that this coalition should include other groups as well, otherwise it would be considered as a tribal and regional coalition.
Prior to Thursday's meeting, Mr. Jalali, Mr. Khalilzad and Mr. Atmar had meetings with the heads of the AEA, but it seems that these political figures will form another coalition.
"I believe every political or non-political institution that is being created or was created, must pay attention to the aspirations and demands of the people. Otherwise, the party will have a negative image in the minds of the people. I would like to repeat that discussions with political parties and the Alliance are ongoing," Mr. Khalizad told the media.
According to the political analysts, there is no long term guarantee on the survival of these coalitions. They feel that due to difference of opinion among the members it is unlikely that these alliances would make it even to the Election Day.
Simultaneously, with the formation of the political coalition, a number of political commentators also expressed doubts over its sustainability and called them "temporary alliances."
Talking about the rumoured nomination of Dr. Abdullah as the Presidential candidate, Mr. Noor stated that nothing has been decided as of now and discussions are on-going.
"Nothing has been decided about the Presidential candidate yet, but discussions are on-going between the political wings. This alliance will choose someone who can tackle the current challenges and maintain the achievements of the past ten years," said Mr. Noor.
Throwing some light on the probable Presidential candidate, Mr. Mohaqeq said, "The political leaders of this country have formed this alliance, in order to find a solution for the current challenges of the country through understandable ways. We hope that this alliance will nominate someone who is worth the peoples' vote."
However, the participants of the previous meetings- Zalmai Khalilzad, former US Ambassador to the United Nations; Ali Ahmad Jalali, former Afghan Interior Minister; and Qayoum Karzai, the elder brother of President Karzai and Mohammad Hanif Atmar, former Afghan Interior Minister, were not present in the Thursday's meeting.
"Discussions are on-going with Mr. Khalilzad and Mr. Jalali urging them to join the alliance. Since they were out of country, they could not be present in today's (Thursday) meeting; we hope to have further discussions in the future," said Dr. Abdullah.
In the list of political parties that have extended their support for the AEA, the Justice and Development Party's (JDP) name also appeared, but the coalition clearly stated that JDP is not a part of the alliance.
As the timeline for the Presidential and Provincial Councils' elections draws near, several political parties trying to join hands in an effort to form coalitions and contest the upcoming elections.
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REMEMBER- 2009
Dr Abdullah 'makes history' in challenge to Afghanistan's president Hamid Karzai
Dr Abdullah Abdullah, the presidential challenger who has forced Hamid Karzai to go to a second round in the Afghan election has described his triumph as "history in the making."
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News - Afghanistan
Six Million Dollars Donated to Help Female Participation in 2014 Elections
Wednesday, 28 August 2013 19:50 Last Updated on Wednesday, 28 August 2013 20:51 Written by Aazem Arash
alt
The Asia Foundation and UK's Department for International Development (DFID) on Wednesday pledged $6 million to help the Afghanistan Independent Election Commission (IEC) prepare a plan to fuel female participation in the upcoming elections.
Female voter turnout has been one the most hot-button issues in the discourse surrounding next year's elections. Early on in the voter registration process back in June, many women's rights advocates and even a female Commissioner of the IEC, Rida Azimi, spoke out about the low number of women receiving voter cards. Although reports have indicated the rate of female registration has increased since then, the most recent IEC figures still put the number of voter cards held by women at around 152,000 out of the 627,000 total cards that have been issued.
In a statement it released to announce the grant, the Asia Foundation called women's participation in the spring elections crucial and urged the Afghan government to develop a full-fledged plan to increase female turnout.
Dr. Ahmad Yousaf Nuristani, the head of the IEC, noted that nearly 50 percent of eligible voters are women, which meant their participation was critical to ensuring the election on April 5 was truly representative of the Afghan people.
"Increased women's participation in the electoral process will ensure legitimacy and transparency of the elections," Mr. Nuristani said.
The financial assistance provided by the Asia Foundation and DFID was assigned broadly to making the elections a success and help Afghanistan in its political transition.
However, the institutions' officials echoed the IEC head's comments by stating clearly that without a rise in women's participation, the elections could not be a success.
"Our project will ensure that women have visibility and a voice in the electoral process and the number of women candidates hopefully will increase," said Mark Kryzer, the Asia Foundation's representative to Afghanistan. "Enhancing their access to justice and supporting their participation in elections is fundamental to Afghanistan's future prosperity and democratic freedoms."
While garnering as high voter turnout is a priority of the IEC at the moment, security concerns are said to be the major challenge facing the elections. According to the IEC, voter registration in 10 districts across the country remained unopened due to security threats.
In addition to security and registration, however, other issues present obstacles yet to be surmounted by the IEC. The lack of a sufficient monitoring system for campaigns, the regulations on candidate campaign expenditures and the nominations of Electoral Complaints Commission (ECC) members are all still matters waiting to be sorted out.
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THE NELSON MANDELA OF AFGHANISTAN..... and youth adore him much like the world's youth and Barack Obama.... folks... Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (the real winner in 2009 until United Nations and global politicians hijacked him)
Karzai’s old rival edges towards 2014 Afghanistan election run
Tuesday, 2 April 2013
As the one-year countdown to Afghan elections begins, the man who lost out last time in a corrupt and chaotic poll is weighing up whether to risk another shot at the presidency.
Abdullah Abdullah pulled out of the second round of the 2009 election after massive vote-rigging by President Hamid Karzai’s supporters that badly shook the U.S.-led international effort to rebuild Afghanistan.
The next election is due on April 5, 2014, but many doubt it will be held on schedule. There are no front-runners and foreign donors fear another flawed poll could bury gains secured since the fall of the Taliban in 2001.
Abdullah, an urbane former eye surgeon, remains embittered towards Karzai and doubts the president will step down without a fight - despite the fact he is barred from standing for a third term.
He accuses Karzai, 55, of plotting to deceive the electorate in spite of repeated pledges to step down next year.
"President Karzai will make an effort to extend his tenure," the 52-year-old predicted in an interview at his heavily-guarded private residence in Kabul.
"The president’s best option is to create an emergency security situation so everyone says ‘under these circumstances how can we have elections?’, then he calls a jirga (tribal meeting) to support him staying on," Abdullah said.
"He doesn't show any signs of being someone who is now leaving in one year’s time."
Abdullah served as Karzai’s foreign minister from 2001 to 2005, but is now leader of the National Coalition of Afghanistan, the closest thing to an opposition group in a country where central government is traditionally weak.
A former aide to the late anti-Soviet fighter Ahmad Shah Massoud, Abdullah commands support among minority Tajiks but not the Pashtuns, the dominant ethnic group from which Karzai and most members of the Taliban hail.
Recalling the turbulent 2009 election, Abdullah said he was wary of campaigning again for the presidency.
The Electoral Complaints Commission (ECC) threw out around one third of votes - about half a million -cast for Karzai, sparking the run-off from which Abdullah ultimately withdrew "in the best interests of the nation."
"I don’t want any candidate to go through what I did during the elections," said Abdullah, who collected just over 30 percent of the first round vote.
"In one district 5,000 people voted one by one, while in the next district officials under the supervision of the police just provided 5,000 votes. If the elections are rigged this time, it is a recipe for a major crisis."
Few solutions to Afghanistan’s problems
Many observers suggest Abdullah offers few solutions to Afghanistan’s many problems and has not cultivated enough support to have a chance of winning.
But, with a year to go until the scheduled poll he said he was working hard behind the scenes and - if he were to stand- would not this time back down in the event of a run-off.
"It would not be like the last time when I said I would swallow this bitter pill for the sake of the country," he said.
"I haven’t said I am a candidate. I am doing what candidates do - talking to people, networking, expanding supporters, but a decision has not happened yet."
While it is not yet clear who will run in 2014, the lengthy list of possible candidates includes Karzai’s brother Qayyum, warlord turned provincial governor Atta Mohammad Noor, and former interior minister Ali Ahmad Jalali.
At least 26 people were killed in sporadic attacks on polling day in 2009, and Karzai was only declared the winner 10 weeks later, after fraud investigations, delayed results and Abdullah’s eventual withdrawal.
Recent visitors to Kabul including U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry have stressed that Afghanistan must hold a legitimate vote or risk being abandoned by Western governments after foreign combat troops withdraw next year.
One growing concern has been Karzai’s plan to scrap the U.N.-backed ECC, which includes foreign representatives, in favor of a new all-Afghan tribunal.
Last week the U.N. called for an impartial electoral dispute body to be set up at once and for a respected figure to be appointed head of the Independent Electoral Commission, which is currently leaderless.
"Either we have rule of law or we are a failed state. This election is an opportunity and a real test ahead of us," Abdullah said.
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/perspective/profiles/2013/04/02/Karzai-s-old-rival-edges-towards-2014-Afghanistan-election-run.html
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FROM 2009- DR. ABDULLAH ABDULLAH
'Afghan Obama' aspires to be his country's saviour
As Afghanistan's elections loom, President Hamid Karzai's strongest challenge comes from a candidate who crosses the country's ethnic divide
By Ben Farmer in Samangan province, and Nick Meo in Kabul
5:53PM BST 08 Aug 2009
Its ancient engine emitting an unsettling rattle, the Russian-made MI-17 helicopter touched down in a choking cloud of dust in the mud brick Afghan town of Samangan. The haze had barely cleared around the disembarking figure of its VIP passenger, though, as the waiting crowd surged forward shouting his name – "Abdullah!".
A month ago, none of the 40 candidates running for president against Hamid Karzai seemed to have a chance, and the farmers of Samangan would not have bothered leaving their wheat fields for an election rally.
But suddenly, a lacklustre election campaign has sparked into a ferocious battle.
The hopes of millions who prayed for a better life after the fall of the Taliban government, and were frustrated, have been pinned on the challenger who promises to unseat Mr Karzai – the urbane former foreign minister, Dr Abdullah Abdullah.
With just 11 days to go before a vote that will help decide Afghanistan's future, many believe he has enough momentum to win – thanks not just to his own popularity, but to widespread disillusionment with the incumbent.
"Hamid Karzai has broken his promises," snarled farmer Mohammad Yousef, 56, one of 2,000 men who sat beneath the shade of parachutes strung between trees to hear Dr Abdullah speak in Samangan on Wednesday. "He hasn't done anything for us, so we will not support him this time."
Instead, Mr Yousef's vote will instead go to Dr Abdullah, a former eye surgeon who went into politics after serving with the anti-Taliban guerrillas of Afghanistan's Northern Alliance in the 1990s. In a contest dominated by ex-warlords, Islamic extremists, and potentates of opium drug trade, he is regarded as of the few decent men of Afghan politics – free from the whiff of corruption, and with no blood on his hands.
"It was very difficult to convince me to get into the race," said Dr Abdullah in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph, in which he admitted an initial apprehension about challenging for the toughest job in Afghan politics.
"I wanted to contribute to the change, but not lead it. But when I decided, from that time the picture was very clear for me. People do want change and you have to prove you are the agent for it."
On August 20, amid a full-scale war in the south, and bombs, killings and bloodshed across the shattered nation, Afghans will go to the polls at 7,000 voting stations nationwide, taking part in only the second fully democratic election in the nation's turbulent history.
Mr Karzai is still the favourite, according to the estimates of analysts and diplomats in Kabul. But in the past month of campaigning, the sense of inevitability around a Karzai victory has been slipping away, leaving the president with a fight on his hands. If there is no outright winner, there will be a run-off a month later, which would most likely be a straight battle between Mr Karzai and Dr Abdullah.
The contest is President Karzai's to lose. His Achilles' heel has been the impression of incompetence and corruption that has dogged his eight years in power, and slowly dragged him from the position of darling of the West, to one of the West's biggest Afghan headaches. Ever since Britain sent troops to Helmand, diplomats have viewed him as failing to provide the leadership which is desperately needed to boost Afghans' confidence in government and loosen the hold of the Taliban. He has squabbled often and bitterly with British diplomats over policy in Helmand – yet as a wily political operator, has always managed to sidestep apparent Western efforts to undermine him in the last 18 months.
Ordinary Afghans have grumbled about him for far longer. In the north they complain about the lack of water, power, and jobs, and in the south they complain about violence. But while they blame President Karzai, they have generally stuck with him because there was no one else. Until now.
"I voted for Karzai in the first elections and I was a penniless taxi driver. Nothing has changed five years later," Abdul Shukor said with a wry grin at a recent Abdullah rally in Kabul. The bitter joke among the capital's poorer residents is that those who have done well out of Mr Karzai live in the so-called "poppy palaces" which have sprung up across the capital. Gaudy, tasteless mansions, their nickname comes from the assumption that their owners have made money out of the burgeoning opium trade.
It is this disillusionment that Dr Abdullah believes can enable him to oust Mr Karzai and his formidable coalition of former warlords, strongmen and ethnic leaders. They include such feared men as General Abdul Rashid Dostum, a former Northern Alliance leader who is notorious for once disciplining an errant foot soldier by running him over with a tank.
Back in the 1990s, Dr Abdullah and General Dostum were with the Northern Alliance together against the Taliban. But there the similarities end. Unlike the general, a larger-than-life, vodka-swilling figure, who enjoyed challenging visiting reporters to wrestling matches, Dr Abdullah is a quietly-spoken, academic figure, fluent in both English and French.
He studied ophthalmology at Kabul University before joining the anti-Soviet resistance in the Panjshir Valley alongside Ahmad Shah Massoud, the legendary guerrilla commander who later led the Northern Alliance against the Taliban. Massoud was murdered by al-Qaeda suicide bombers posing as a camera crew days before the attacks on September 11, 2001, but remains a revered figure in Afghanistan because of his warrior pedigree.
As well as benefiting from his association with Massoud, Dr Abdullah has the advantage of straddling Afghan's main ethnic divide. While his mother was an ethnic Tajik, a tribe predominant in the north, his father was a Pashtun, the tribe predominant in the religiously conservative south, which also provides the bulk of support for the Taliban movement. Being of mixed parentage means he can appeal to a wide variety of voters – and, combined with his message of change, has led to him being inevitably dubbed "The Afghan Obama".
At first his campaign got off to a poor start, with Dr Abdullah looking tired and uncertain. But as he told the Sunday Telegraph, a month ago he suddenly began to believe in himself. It was during a visit to the western city of Herat when he arrived to find cheering supporters lining the 10 miles from the city's airport to its football stadium.
"When I went to Herat I was overwhelmed," he said. "Thousands of people, tens of thousands of people, they turned out to welcome me at the airport and between the airport and the stadium.
"Some of them ran and some of them walked and some of them took bikes, whatever they had. That's something that shows people are now hopeful and that they want to be support my campaign."
Now, by contrast, he clearly enjoys campaigning, looking relaxed and cheerful despite the constant presence of armed bodyguards at his side – an operational essential for any Afghan election candidate. His growing confidence has prompted diplomats to revise their assessments of what previously seemed like a shoo-in for Mr Karzai. The British Ambassador to Kabul, Mark Sedwill, described the election last week as "genuinely in the balance".
At his headquarters in Kabul 500 supporters canvas support, sort stacks of leaflets, and consume steaming plates of rice and lamb. The capital's dingy streets are plastered with posters, showing a bewildering array of turbaned candidates, and a few women, and the symbols they have chosen for identification by Afghanistan's many illiterate voters – pots, goats, horses, and the like.
His supporters fervently hope that if he is returned at the polls, Dr Abdullah can do what Mr Karzai said he would do before he was overwhelmingly elected in 2004 – bring peace, jobs and reconstruction.
Doing so could revitalise the moribund government which the West has been trying with limited success to both prop up and push into an effective battle against the Taliban. Mr Karzai is widely judged to have failed on this crucial front.
Dr Abullah has also promised to develop a prime ministerial system and devolve power to elected governors, a plan which could help to restrain some of the less savoury characters put into power by the current president.
Dr Abdullah's detractors say he is too close to the Northern Alliance which he served for years, and the powerful Tajiks of the north-east. There are even murmurings that despite his mixed parentage, the southern Pashtuns could start an ethnic civil war if he took power.
For this reason, among others, the West has been careful not to openly back any candidate in the election. But the strained relationship between foreign diplomats who spend billions in Afghanistan, and see much of it wasted, and Hamid Karzai, the president they have to put up with, has meant credible rival candidates are welcomed. Dr Abdullah would be perfectly acceptable to the West, although there would be concerns that he, like Mr Karzai, would find his good intentions far easier to pledge than deliver.
A total of 36 candidates plan to stand, although the only other high-profile contender is Dr Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai, an academic and former World Bank technocrat who once served as finance minister. He is, however, famously cantankerous and, like many Afghan leaders, seems unable to do a power-sharing deal with anyone.
President Karzai is thought to be considering joining forces with Dr Ghani, offering to create for him a new job of chief executive, making him in effect prime minister. If past Afghan politics are anything to go by, though, horse-trading, backroom deals and betrayals will probably prevail until a clear winner emerges.
That, at least, is the best case scenario. Such is the fear of fraud, and such has been the discontent over the results of the last five years of democracy, that many of Dr Abdullah's supporters say they will go for Tehran-style mass street protests if the polls say Mr Karzai has won again. And if that happens, they have pointedly said that Afghans, unlike Iranians, nearly all have Kalashnikovs.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/5995594/Afghan-Obama-aspires-to-be-his-countrys-saviour.html
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President Karzai Calls Attack On Mosques, Religious Ceremonies Enmity With Islam
Saturday August 31, 2013
Kabul (BNA) President Hamid Karzai strongly condemned terrorist attack in Dashti Archi district of Kunduz province in which including Sheikh Sadruddin 8 civilians were martyred and around 11 others wounded.
The attack took place Friday morning on a mosque where prayers ceremony was held and most of the victims were elderly residents of the area.
Sheikh Sadruddin was an outstanding Mujahid who always was trying to ensure peace and security in the area and sought ways to resolve people’s problems.
President Karzai called this terrorist attack the work of enemies of Islam and strongly condemned it.
He added that attack on the mosques and on the religious ceremonies and worshipping sites is a wild act and it is an anti-Islamic deed whose perpetrators will face severe punishment of Almighty Allah and serious hatred of the people of Afghanistan.
He conveyed his deep sympathies with the bereaved families and wished early recovery for the wounded of this attack.
http://www.bakhtarnews.com.af/eng/security/item/8803-president-karzai-calls-attack-on-mosques-religious-ceremonies-enmity-with-islam.html
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World Bank Economic Review, Vol. 15, No. 3 345-373
LOW SCHOOLING 4 GIRLS, SLOWER GROWTH 4 ALL? CROSS-COUNTRY EVIDENCE ON THE EFFECT OF GENDER INEQUALITY IN EDUCATION ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
http://www.wsp.org/Hygiene-Sanitation-Water-Toolkit/Resources/Readings/klasen_economic.pdf
AND..
AND.... obviously Afghanistan is only one nation that is trying 2 include girls education 2 highest levels- so the world can have all the brilliance education empowers progress
Afghan female university enrollment stands at 19%- reveals World Bank’s report
Posted by wadsam | August 31, 2013 | 1
female studentsAccording to recent report by the World Bank, only 19% of the total students enrolled in higher education institutions were females.
Lack of proper education facilities and opportunities for females is the prime reason behind the stratification between male and female students.
The report is used to awaken the Afghan government and take immediate steps to increase the female to male ratio in higher education.
Harsha Athur Puna, an education specialist at the World Bank, called on the Afghan government to clear the hindrances to women’s education.
Meanwhile, Afghan Ministry of Higher Education has accepted the findings and assured that the government would take all possible measures to increase women’s access to education.
"We are thankful to the World Bank for pointing out the weak areas and providing a solutions. We and our teams will try to tackle all the challenges," said Higher Education Minister Obaidullah Obaid.
Regarding the challenges encountered while putting the report together, Puna said improper documentation and record keeping has been a major challenge.
http://www.wadsam.com/afghan-female-university-enrollment-stands-at-19-reveals-world-banks-report-232/
COMMENT:
Dr Mehdi Barghchi
August 31, 2013 at 7:56 pm #
.
Women and girls should have just as much access to equal opportunity as men, including in education. Unfortunately, certain cultural norms and practices do not provide this opportunity. This is not unique to Afghanistan that often men dominate education and places of influence in the society. It is the same in many developed as well as in developing world countries, be it in the government or private sector. A recent study in Makerere University, School of Women and Gender Studies in Uganda had similar conclusion that women and girls do not have as much access to education leading to less employment and influence opportunities for women http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/646461–cultural-norms-a-huge-hindrance-to-girl-education.html . Of course the wealth of a nation is its people and education is investment in the wellbeing of the nation. A country that does not recognize that 50% of its resources i.e. women, have a positive role to play in development of the country and its nation, is just going to be always at least one step behind!
HOWEVER...
UNICEF- Basic education and gender equality
Equitable access
UNICEF Image
© UNICEF/NYHQ2009-2122/Tom Pietrasik
Students clap during a class activity in Namahal Vidyalaya Government Tamil Mixed School in Navalady Tsunami Resettlement Village, Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka.
There are currently an estimated 57 million primary school-age children who are not in school. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for more than one-half of all out-of-school children worldwide, with one in five primary school-age children never attending school or dropping out. Moreover, there has been little progress in keeping children in school. About 137 million children began primary school in 2011 but at least 34 million are likely to drop out before reaching the last grade. This translates into an early school leaving rate of 25 per cent – the same level as in 2000.
With progress towards universal enrolment slowing, even more children could be out of school in 2015. The current financial crisis has put extra pressure on stretched public funding. The aid to basic education has dropped by 6 per cent between 2010 and 2011 and six of the top ten donors to education reduced their spending over the course of the year. These out-of-school boys and girls are being denied their basic human right to quality education: without it, their future opportunities are dramatically limited.
Deeply entrenched structural inequalities and disparities are part of what keeps children out of school. These challenges are linked to many factors, including income poverty, exposure to child labour, conflict and natural disasters, location, migration and displacement, HIV/AIDS, disability, gender, ethnicity, language of instruction, religion and caste. In Nigeria, for instance, poor women from rural areas average 2.6 years of education while wealthy urban women receive on average nine years of education. In stark contrast a poor rural Hausa girl barely manages 0.3 year of education.
Those affected by inequality, especially girls and children living in extreme poverty and isolated areas and belonging to socially disadvantaged groups, have less access to education because they live in areas where there are no schools, and if they exist they cannot cover the costs, or children do not relate to the content being taught, or simply are discriminated against.
UNICEF is deeply committed to creating a world in which all children, regardless of their gender, socio-economic background or circumstances, have access to free, compulsory and quality education. In education, UNICEF supports the Education for All (EFA) and the Millennium Development Goals 2 and 3 to ensure that all children have access to and complete a full course of primary schooling, and to eliminate gender disparity in education by 2015. Other global goals echoing these commitments include the World Education Forum’s Dakar Framework for Action, which stresses the rights of girls, ethnic minorities and children in difficult circumstances; and the emphasis in A World Fit for Children on ensuring equal access to and achievement in basic education of good quality.
UNICEF’s mandate to serve the most marginalized populations also focuses special attention on girls, who are the largest group excluded from education. UNICEF works to mobilize and provide resources to communities in need. In countries with low net enrolment rates for girls, programmes are implemented to help governments formulate policies, procedures and practices that will significantly reduce the number of girls who are not in school. UNICEF also leads on the United Nations Girls’ Education Initiative (UNGEI), which is the Education for All flagship for girls’ education: a partnership of organizations committed to narrowing the gender gap in primary and secondary education.
While UNICEF adapts its strategies to fit each situation, its interventions typically include outreach to identify excluded and at-risk girls and get them into school, policy support and technical assistance for governments and communities to improve access for those children who are hardest to reach or suffer most from discrimination, and programmes to eliminate cultural, social and economic barriers to girls’ education. As part of its equity strategy, UNICEF is working on identifying the bottlenecks that inhibit school participation and to understand the complex profiles of out-of-school children that reflect the multiple deprivations and disparities they face in relation to education. The School Fee Abolition Initiative enables countries to take pioneering steps to eliminate fees and other costs to address economic barriers preventing children from accessing basic education. UNICEF also provides development and implementation support, promotes educational quality and helps countries prepare for and respond to crises, in order to ensure that affected children learn in safe, stable and gender-sensitive environments.
Across the globe, UNICEF is committed to nothing less than full and complete access to free, quality education for every girl and boy. Universal access to quality education is not a privilege – it is a basic human right.
http://www.unicef.org/education/bege_61657.html
AND...
'Cultural norms a huge hindrance to girl education
'Publish Date: Aug 24, 2013
The researchers want govt to initiate policies which will empower adoloscent girls. CREDIT/New Vision
By Moses Mulondo
Findings by a study conducted by academicians from Makerere University School of Women and Gender Studies have established that cultural norms are the biggest hindrance to the realization of speedy progress in the move to promote girl education and women empowerment in Uganda.
Launching the research findings on Friday at Hotel Africana, the state minister for the elderly and the disabled, Sulaiman Madada, commended the researchers and promised to ensure that government uses their research to address the challenges to the social-economic empowerment of women.
"This study is timely. There are still many negative attitudes that are failing the drive for educating and empowering women. This research will help us to know how best to handle the challenges," said the minister.
The lead researchers – Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo, Dr. Florence Kyoheirwe and Dr. Carol Watson – are pushing for a paradigm shift to address discriminatory formal and informal laws and to carry out massive sensitization if significant progress is to be realized.
Prof. Bantebya said in this research, which was conducted between October 2012 and March 2013, they have discovered many "shocking" forms of discrimination against a girl child, most of which are entrenched in religious beliefs, cultural norms, attitudes and practices.
"The study has shown that despite an enabling legal and policy framework capable of addressing adolescent girls’ vulnerabilities as they prepare for crucial transitions to adult roles, they face a myriad of challenges.
"Discriminatory social norms, attitudes and practices are further compounded by conditions of poverty and lack of quality service provision to constrain overall opportunities and development," Prof. Bantebya explained.
As part of their recommendations, the researchers want government to initiate policies which will empower adolescent girls and enhance their capabilities to overcome these vulnerabilities.
"We realized that household and family structures and processes severely constrain the development and full realization of women’s capabilities.
"The unequal gendered division of labour within the household burdens women and girls with most of the care work, thus limiting their capacity to engage in and benefit from significant activities including education, training and productive labour," she elaborated.
The researchers further established that in various Uganda communities, cultural norms and attitudes consider boys more important than girls – which compels many parents to give priority to boys over girls in offering them education and inheritance.
"Despite government interventions to educate girls, progress is still held back by so many constraints. Our girls are given in marriage at an early stage for bride wealth [dowry]. Even some male teachers discriminate against girls, calling them less intelligent.
"Girls are denied the right to inherit their fathers’ properties. Most of the UPE dropouts are girls," Prof. Bantebya said while outlining the various challenges they encountered in their field studies.
The research, which was done in Mayuge and Ssembabule districts, recognized an emergency of unprecedented number of young mothers who are not married.
"So many girls are increasingly engaging in sex at an early stage. Some parents and teachers attributed this trend to pornography and blue movies," she stated.
To solidify the concern about deeply rooted culture that undermines women, Prof. Bantebya said: "As women activists, we were taken aback to see Ugandans rejecting the marriage and divorce bill over cultural-related issues especially property rights.
"That is when we realized we had not made significant progress in eliminating those cultural norms."
She said the next phases of their study, which is funded by UK’s Department for International Development (DFID), will compare trends between Uganda and Ethiopia, the rest of east African countries and other nations of the world that managed to overcome similar challenges.
The research project, which is being implemented globally, is coordinated by Overseas Development Institute (ODI), which is the UK's leading independent think-tank on international development and humanitarian issues.
http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/646461--cultural-norms-a-huge-hindrance-to-girl-education.html
AND...
The World And That Sort Of Thing
Friday, 3 June 2011
BLOG 4 GIRLS: The effects of cultural attitudes on girls education
An old African Proverb states that 'if we educate a boy, we educate one person. If we educate a girl, we educate a family - and a whole nation.'
However, this message doesn't seem to have made much of an impact in many areas of the world. Central Africa is a good example with the poor status of women, a general patriarchal dominance and the continuation of young and often forced marriage many girls do not make it past Primary education.
Indeed it is often marriage that ends a girl’s chance of education. In the poorest countries in the world 1 in 7 girls are married before their 15th birthday. This is a truly global issue with 64 million women aged 20-24 saying that they were married before they were 18. Many of these marriages will have been chosen for them by their family (especially the male members) and may be to someone she does not even know. Abductions for marriage are also common in some countries. In Ethiopia for example, girls as young as 8 are taken for marriage. Not only is this a gross disregard for the girls feelings it is also hugely detrimental to their future and that of the nation as a whole. By removing women's ability to go on to Secondary and Higher education it effectively removes half the intelligence of the nation from being fully utilised.
In many cultures, girls are seen as, if not the secondary sex, then one that has extremely specific value and roles. As the culturally implied breadwinner, male education is often perceived as important and therefore paying for further education is a precursor to better employment. For girls, whose cultural role is perceived as maternal, education is of far lower importance. Girls are often kept at home to prepare food and look after siblings. As they grow older they become valuable as marriage tools to be used for familial or political gain. Even when not married young, girls education is not valued as marriage is seen as inevitable and therefore education is a waste of money. This gendered system is then socialised both at home and during early education creating a gendered cycle, which is incredibly difficult to break out of.
Attitudes within the family are not the only cultural problem facing female education. In schools, teachers often reinforce sexual stereotypes and cultural norms in what they teach. A lack of female sanitation and help for older girls during their development also hinder further study. Often girls face sexism from both teachers and male pupils and even worse face sexual harassment and abuse from both. In the worst cases this can even mean swapping sex for grades. This flagrant and horrific abuse by those with a duty of care obviously has the worst effect on girl’s education. The abuse faced by girls in many secondary schools leads to poor performance and a high drop out rate. Problems are exacerbated by a lack of female teachers and role models leaving girls feeling isolated and alone.
Child labour is also a prevalent problem and one of the most common affecting girls education. Often primary school-age girls are working as many hours as an adult and also far longer than boys. They also start work earlier and such a workload is impossible to sustain while perusing a successful educational career.
While access to Primary education is widening for girls, with up to 70%+ attending, it is clear that a great number of huge and often degrading cultural barriers stop girls from going on to achieve their full potential.
See more at: http://www.plan-uk.org/what-we-do/campaigns/because-i-am-a-girl/
Posted by interpol-sam at 07:39
http://twatsot.blogspot.ca/2011/06/blog-4-girls-effects-of-cultural.html
AND..
Gender Inequality & Cultural Norms & Values: Root Causes Preventing Girls from Exiting a Life of Poverty - Sajan Virgi
*Accepted under the "Addressing Inequalities" Global Thematic Consultation - Call for Proposals for Background Papers, Oct 2012*
by Zainul Sajan Virgi, PhD – McGill University, Canada
October 2012
ABSTRACT: Abject generational poverty is a systemic issue which strips communities, particularly girls of their power, visibility and their capacity to direct change in their lives. From the moment girls are born, two over-shadowing elements restrict their lives – gender inequality and cultural norms and values. This paper focuses on the lives of a group of girls living in a periurban community outside of Maputo, Mozambique. Using participatory methodologies, we hear directly from the girls the influencing role gender and culture has in preventing girls from accessing a higher quality of life. Noticeably absent in girls and poverty related dialogue are the voices of girls living with poverty, as well as the fundamental role of gender inequality and culture in relation to the opportunity and capacity of girls becoming visible, having voice and agency and ultimately leaving a life of poverty.
http://www.worldwewant2015.org/es/node/284178
AND.. most...incredible...read...
Volume 37, Number 20 · December 20, 1990
More Than 100 Million Women Are Missing
By Amartya Sen
http://scholar.google.com/scholar_url?hl=en&q=http://houstonhs.scsk12.org/~mrobinson/Mr._Robinsons_Web_Site_at_Houston_High_School/Population_files/6.%2520More%2520Than%2520100%2520Million%2520Women%2520Missing.pdf&sa=X&scisig=AAGBfm31VVhh25ms3qpVCIb3-MgWBTsVNw&oi=scholarr
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Iran unable to access about 44% of its crude oil income
Posted by wadsam | August 30, 2013 | 0
http://www.wadsam.com/iran-unable-to-access-about-44-of-its-crude-oil-income-232/
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2014 polls: New alliance or old foes repackaged?
Leaders from the National Front of Afghanistan recently met in Mazar-e Sharif with Balkh Governor Atta Mohammad Noor to announce they will stand behind one candidate in the 2014 presidential election. Their joint resolution called for a fair and transparent vote, but commentators are already asking if the alliance of old foes will even last until next year.
by Asghar Noor Mohammed & Zafar Shah Rouyee , Mazar-e Sharif/Kabul , 8.2.2013
The new allianceNew alliance? From L-R: Mohammed Mohaqiq, Ahmad Zia Massoud, Mohammad Atta Noor, Abdul Rasheed Dostum and Amrullah Saleh. (Photos: Noor Mohammed)
With the 2014 Afghan presidential elections just over a year away, key Afghan political figures have already started campaigning and positioning themselves as potential candidates.
At a meeting on January 27 in Mazar-e Sharif hosted by Balkh Governor Atta Mohammad Noor, a number of former Northern Alliance commanders and current political leaders from the National Front of Afghanistan formed a resolution to unite behind one candidate for the 2014 elections.
The political gathering has been labeled by some commentators as the foundation for a broad opposition movement in the approach to the presidential polls. Joining Noor with a pledge to "make political decisions together" were Ahmad Zia Massoud, the brother of former Northern Alliance chief Ahmad Shah Massoud, Mohammad Mohaqiq, chairman of the Islamic Unity Party, General Abdul Rasheed Dostum, leader of the National Islamic Movement and Amrullah Saleh, former director of the National Directorate of Security (NDS) and leader of the Green Movement.
"Afghanistan is on the verge of taking a historic test and, at this time, she needs leaders," Governor Noor proclaimed, shortly before announcing that he would throw his candidacy into the hat if those assembled would support him. Ahmad Zia Massoud was quick to endorse Noor, but no formal candidacy was announced.
One candidate for 2014 elections
The resolution rather called for specific measures to prevent fraud and improve the conditions for the 2014 election. "Holding a transparent and fair election would bring the people of Afghanistan to the side of the government and would help security and democratic institutions," it proclaimed. "Fraudulent and non-transparent elections" are responsible for the current corruption in Afghan political institutions. "Reform of the electoral system, voiding voting cards and distributing electronic Identification cards are the necessities of a transparent and fair election," read the statement.
Delegates from the different factions meets at the Almas Hotel in Mazar-e Sharif on January 27, 2012.
The line-up of political heavyweights criticized the government’s policy of "bribing the Taliban" and encouraged a nation-wide peace-building exercise. The joint resolution by the factions also called for a delay in the withdrawal of foreign combat troops in 2014 to improve the security situation.
Mohaqiq, Dostum and Noor also used the occasion to deny corruption allegations cast on them by the Attorney General’s Office. Mohaqiq, a founder of the National Front of Afghanistan, a northern-based party, emphasized the implementation and distribution of electronic voting cards as crucial to fair elections.
"The elections should be transparent. If the government of Afghanistan works harder, it can distribute electronic identification cards. Fraud will [then] be avoided," said Mohaqiq.
ID cards against fraud
Voting cards have already been issued in the past in Afghanistan by several administrations but duplicates and frauds are also in high circulation. Electronic voting cards would help establish the exact number of the electorate - the number of voters is currently estimated to be between 11 and 17 million, according to different sources.
Saleh, former head of the NDS intelligence service, criticized the government for using the lack of time before elections as an excuse to not hand out electronic ID cards. Saleh cited international support for the programme: "We had a consultative meeting with senators from the United States, including John McCain. They do not support delaying or avoiding presidential elections and they consider it as an important process."
Border insecurity key danger for elections
The former NDS head highlighted several security concerns that could disrupt next year’s presidential elections, currently scheduled for April 5, 2014. Saleh cited the difficulties of securing Afghanistan’s international borders as a major obstacle to holding elections, because of foreign interference. "Insurgents can easily bring military equipment across the border to the central provinces," said Saleh.
All for one and one for all: National Front of Afghanistan delegates pledge to stand behind one candidate in next year's presidential elections.
He also bemoaned interference by private individuals in local police affairs, while calling for reform of the current electoral system. "The other issue is the privatization of some governmental institutions," said Saleh, adding that, "the danger is the use of governmental resources for the advantage of a certain candidate."
Ahmad Zia Massoud, Chairman of the National Front of Afghanistan, suggested his party could unite behind a Noor candidacy. "Afghanistan beyond 2014 is seriously threatened," said Massoud. "The more united we are, the stronger we get. If Mr. Noor becomes the candidate for the upcoming 2014 presidential elections with the approval of our friends, there will be no problem, in my opinion."
Governor Noor, one of the most powerful local leaders in Afghanistan, said he would make his decision whether to run after consulting with Mohammad Qaseem Fahim, the first Vice-President of Afghanistan, Muhammad Younus Qanooni, a member of the Parliament of Afghanistan and a potential candidate in the 2014 polls, and former presidential candidate Dr. Abdullah Abdullah.
Abullah Abdullah and his party not in attendance
Abdullah and any representatives of his National Coalition were however notably absent from the gathering. "We work every day to help the National Front of Afghanistan grow bigger. We have some type of agreement with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Mohammad Younus Qanooni, the Right and Justice Party and other parties," said Mohaqiq, without disclosing further details of the agreement.
But Mohammed Asem, a high-ranking member of Abdullah’s National Coalition, denied such an agreement exists. "No agreement over having a single candidate in the upcoming Presidential Elections in 2014 has been reached with this political movement or any other political movements," said Asem.
Broad coalition or opportunism?
Local commentators were skeptical about the announcement of the alliance. "Over the past ten years, these people have failed to unite and work for the national interest of Afghanistan. They played a major role in making the problems bigger and so long as irresponsible people are armed, the government of Afghanistan will be facing serious problems," said Gulab Bawar, a local journalist.
Many people also question how former enemies and opponents could now form such a united stand.
With regard to their past conflicts, Mohaqiq said that they are currently together to resolve the crisis in the country. "Not only will we be together in bringing security and taking part in the upcoming Presidential Elections, but we will also make political decisions together," added Governor Noor.
"Taliban better than Dostum"
Long-term rivals Dostum and Noor have vied for power in the northern provinces for years and Karzai used this rivalry and won the Uzbek votes during both presidential elections.
Bawar highlighted several contradictions, noting that Noor had previously said on television that the Taliban were better than Dostum. In fact, after the informal coalition was announced, Noor’s video in which he had made the Taliban-Dostum remark went viral on social media like Facebook and Twitter.
"Their coalition is temporary and based on necessities. People in the past witnessed such coalitions," added Bawar. "These are the tactics opportunistic people use and unite with one another for opportunistic goals. In the end, I believe that Mr. Noor will enter into a deal with someone else or a different group."
In an article published in Hasht-e-Subh Daily, after the Mazar congress, Azad, a political anaylyst wrote: "It is evident that Mr. Noor’s political weight would diminish without the support of these figures. We should not also forget that although figures, such as Mr. Fahim, Mr. Qanoni and Doctor Abdullah come from the same ethnic group and political party, they often ignore their party affiliations for political gains or governmental positions. Even the National Front of Afghanistan is a seasonal political faction which only comes to existence before elections. It does not work as a unified political movement all year long."
"Their coalition is temporary and based on necessities. People in the past witnessed such coalitions." Gulab Bawar, Mazar-based journalist.
Qayum Babak, another Mazar-e Sharif-based journalist, however agreed with the leaders that electronic voting cards are the key to a fair election.
"If the election is not transparent, Afghanistan will move towards a crisis," he said. "Media outlets and civil society should put more pressure on the Independent Elections Commission of Afghanistan to distribute electronic identification cards or new voting cards."
Babak believes the alliance could be formed in earnest. But its haphazard formation also highlights the ailing nature of certain political parties.
"When leaders of the National Front come to a governor to reach some agreements, it shows their weakness," said Babak. He added that jihadi leaders and leaders of the National Front of Afghanistan are trying their best to forge a coalition, but their political lives show that these individuals have forged coalitions several times in the past, yet none lasted long.
Psychological pressure on Karzai
Shah Hossein Murtazowee, a Kabul-based journalist, agrees. "General Dostum and Mohammad Mohaqiq left Dr. Abdullah Abdullah in the last minute of the 2009 presidential elections and entered into a deal with Hamid Karzai," notes Murtazowee. Mohaqiq and Noor as well as Noor and Dostum have all had public clashes before, he added.
"They expressed their common concern regarding the transparency of the upcoming elections." National Front spokesman Sayed Fazel Sancharak
National Front spokesman Sayed Fazel Sancharaki told Afghanistan Today that there were two reasons behind the creation of the new alliance: "First, they sent a strong message to the ruling team that if they try to forge any conspiracy against the northern leaders, they [the northern leaders] would be more united and coordinate their political efforts more closely. Secondly, they expressed their common concern regarding the transparency of the upcoming elections."
Hashmat Radfar, a political analyst, believes the meeting was designed to put "psychological pressure on Karzai" and "his inner circle." The analyst adds that coalitions over the past ten years have not lasted long because they lacked a unified ideology and this danger still persists. "On the other hand, an alliance of figures whose ideology contradicts those who are currently in power adds to the seriousness of the matter," said Radfar.
Shadows of corruption?
The meeting by the northern leaders came around a week after High Office of Oversight and Anti Corruption (HOO) said that several "warlords" and powerful figures stood accused of embezzlement and land grabbing in Balkh Province. HOO officials did not name any individuals, but said the cases were sent to HOO by the Attorney General’s office.
- See more at: http://www.afghanistan-today.org/article/?id=408#sthash.Zma7JdVr.dpuf
http://www.afghanistan-today.org/article/?id=408
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What's the matter United Nations- can't u stand an honest politician- DR. ABDULLAH ABDULLAH- the next President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, Between Plague and Cholera, There's Dr. Abdullah
Posted: 03/13/2012 9:01 am
It's been ten years, almost to the day, since I returned from Afghanistan with the "Report" Jacques Chirac, Lionel Jospin and Hubert Védrine had commissioned, in which I described the possible contribution of France to the political, civic, cultural and military reconstruction of this country ruined by decades of dictatorship, war, and massacres.
Obviously, I shall not go into the details here of the recommendations I made then.
Nor shall I dwell on the long series of errors committed by an international community that never should have blindly depended upon the corrupt government of Hamid Karzai; nor negotiated with the fascist Taliban it had come to combat and, in principle, exclude from power; nor, finally -- undoubtedly the most blatant error -- announced so soon, with great fanfare, the date when it would withdraw its troops, in 2014.
Today, what is most important is the result.
And it must be said, the result is increasingly catastrophic.
The business of the Korans that were burnt in the rubbish collection site of Bagram Air Base, north of Kabul.
The criminal spree of this American soldier who cold-bloodedly murdered sixteen people, including nine children, in three villages of the Panjwai district, near Kandahar.
This 'Kurtz syndrome' that seems to threaten a however clearly small number of soldiers, driven, like Conrad's hero in Heart of Darkness, to the end of their tether by this war without a front or a visible enemy, whose stakes are elusive, and in which yesterday's friend can, without warning, become today's or tomorrow's enemy.
And, at the end of the day, the terrible paradox of an army of liberation, increasingly hated by the very people it wished to liberate.
Or, worse still: this growing fringe of the population who -- occupation for occupation -- may well end up preferring the "home made" occupation of the Taliban.
And, instead of a pacified country on the path to democracy we dreamed of leaving to the Afghans, a tragic situation, literally and figuratively, where all solutions -- as in Hegel's definition of the Tragic in his meditation on Antigone -- prove equally disastrous.
Leave there, immediately, even before the end of 2014, the projected date? An admission of failure and impotence. Ten years of sacrifice, ending in a farce. And the quasi-certainty of seeing Mullah Omar's men return as soon as we leave.
Stay? Prolong our presence beyond the deadline of 2014? Difficult, considering the human cost in the ranks of the Coalition of a war that has, after all, claimed the lives of over a thousand Americans, 404 Englishmen, 52 Germans, 36 Italians and 29 Frenchmen. Even impossible when it is the very people involved who don't want us there anymore and see us, more and more often, as the Iraqis and the South Vietnamese before them finally perceived the American troops who had initially come with intentions that were not always bad.
Go and stay? Withdraw combat troops but leave the military bases and instructors ? This is what was planned. But even this minimal presence could be reconsidered if the hatred of America, the auto-demonization of the Coalition, product of its own abuses, should continue to expand. (Sometimes I wonder if America and its wars of liberation, all of which, with the exception of the war against Naziism, have turned out so badly, might exist under a blighted star.)
And then?
Then, the nature of a tragic situation is such that there is, I repeat, no way out -- or in any case, no miracle solution.
But at least one can dream of one or two ideas.
Beginning with this one, which I have defended for years.
Admit that Afghanistan cannot be reduced, for all that, to a desperate confrontation between the Taliban killers and the corrupt members of Karzai's regime.
Learn to count to three, in other words, to this third force which is the democratic opposition to both of them, incarnate in the man -- Abdullah Abdullah, Commandant Massoud's former lieutenant -- who, during the blatantly fraudulent elections of 2009, managed nonetheless to garner over 30% of the ballots cast.
Remember, in other terms, that if the Tragic is one of History's laws, it does not necessarily always constitute the last word -- and that it happens that courage, just courage which is imagination by another name, succeeds in loosening the vice.
In Kabul, between the failed regimes we continue to support, through obstination and laziness, and the Taliban assassins we hire, through sheer stupidity, to make the beds, there are, then, the heirs of Massoud.
And perhaps before we pull up the ladder, it would be advisable to try to turn to them, in an ultimate attempt, a last-chance operation.
Abdullah Abdullah...
Remember this name.
Recall it, if you have forgotten it.
For Afghanistan and its friends, it is perhaps the very last card left to play.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bernardhenri-levy/afghanistan-abdullah-abdullah_b_1341268.html
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Electoral Alliance" Announces Members, Intent for Presidential Election
Friday, 30 August 2013 19:29 Written by Saleha Soadat
A gathering of Afghan political figures on Thursday officially announced to the public the formation of grand coalition called the "Afghanistan Electoral Alliance (AEA)," bringing together many of the most prominent political parties and leaders in Afghanistan under one banner.
The alliance has been formed by the Islamic People's Party (IPP), Wahdat-e-Islami Party, National Movement of Afghanistan (NMA), National Coalition of Afghanistan (NCA), National Front Party (NFP), Afghanistan Green Trend (AGT), Afghanistan Naween (AN), Hezb-e-Wahdat, Iqtidar-e-Millie, Itehad-i-Aqwam and Coordination Council of Arab People (CCAP).
Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, leader of the NCA; Atta Muhammad Noor, Governor of Balkh province; Haji Mohammad Mohaqeq, leader of the IPP; Abdul Rasheed Dostum, head of the Junbesh Milli Party (JMP); Salahuddin Rabbani, acting head of the Jameyat Party (JP); Amrullah Saleh, former Director of the National Directorate of Security (NDS); Ahmad Zia Massood, head of the NFP; and Muhammad Younus Qanooni, a member of the JP, were some of the prominent political leaders who attended the meeting and signed the agreement solidifing newly formed alliance.
The AEA announced that it would soon nominate a single candidate for the Presidential elections, which is scheduled to take place on April 5, 2014.
The agreement that the coalition members signed on Thursday states that steps would be taken in order to ensure reforms were brought to the current political system; there is increased participation of people in the political, social and economic arena; there is balanced development and fair distribution of power.
"Signatories of this agreement, provide clear written commitment to the rights and functioning of the parties and groups who are a part of the Electoral Alliance," said Badul Sata Murad, a member of the IPP. "The signatories of this agreement will be the key players in selecting the Presidential candidate and the Vice-Presidents. Decisions would be based on unanimous votes,"
Addressing rumors circulating that Dr. Abdullah would be the group's Presidential candidate, Governor Noor stated firmly that nothing had been decided yet.
"Nothing has been decided about the Presidential candidate, discussions are ongoing between the members," said Noor. "This Alliance will choose someone who can tackle the current challenges and maintain the achievements of the past ten years."
According reports, Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations; Ali Ahmad Jalali, former Afghan Interior Minister; Qayoum Karzai, the younger brother of President Karzai; and the Haq-o-Adalat Party did not agree to join the AEA. Earlier in the week, the three high-profile political figures - speculated to be favorites for the Presidency - had met with the heads of the AEA who wanted looked to recruit them to the coalition.
Nevertheless, while the three men were not present on Thursday, and are rumored to have turned down offers to join the AEA, coalition leaders assured that conversations with them, or at least Mr. Khalilzad and Mr. Jalali, would continue.
"Discussions are ongoing with Mr. Khalilzad and Mr. Jalali urging them to join the alliance," said Dr. Abdullah. "Since they were out of country they could not be present in today's (Thursday) meeting, but we hope to have further discussions in the future."
After the Alliance was announced at the press conference in Kabul, Mr. Jalali and Mr. Khalizad both offered a response in which they did not rule out the possibility of joining the coalition down the line. However, both leaders implied they needed a clearer sign from the AEA that it would adequately represent the interests of Afghans in the election.
"I believe every political or non-political institution that is being created or was created, must pay attention to the aspirations and demands of the people, otherwise, they will be rejected by the people," said Mr. Khalilzad. "I would like to repeat that discussions with political parties and the Alliance are ongoing."
According to political analysts, there little certainty in the survival of coalitions like the one annouced on Thursday. They feel that due to differences of opinion among the members it is unlikely that the alliances would last to Election Day. They called them "temporary alliances," and said they did not show any signs of stability, which is considered important for the young Afghan political system.
In the list of political parties that have extended their support for the AEA, the Justice and Development Party's (JDP) name also appeared, but the coalition clearly stated that JDP is not a part of the alliance.
As the timeline for the Presidential and Provincial Councils' elections draws near, and the formal Independent Election Commission (IEC) nomination period just around the corner running from mid September to mid October, more annoucements are expected from political parties and leaders about alliances being formed, or broken.
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News - Afghanistan
Selection Committee Receives 300 Applications for ECC Membership
Saturday, 31 August 2013 21:03 Written by Saleha Soadat
The Selection Committee for the Electoral Complaints Commission (ECC) on Saturday announced that it had received over 300 applications for ECC membership.
Gul Rahman Qazi, Director of the Commission for Overseeing the Implementation of Constitution (COIC) and member of the Selection Committee, said that work to sift through and evaluate the applications would begin on Sunday.
Out of the over 300 applications that were received, only 254 were completed properly and received by the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. Out of those 254 applications, 15 are to be selected and forwarded on to President Hamid Harzai for appointment. The President will only appoint five out of the 15 nominees for membership on the ECC.
The Law on the Governing, Job Description and Functioning of the Independent Election Commission (IEC) states that the ECC is an independent institution and will always work closely with the IEC. The Law also states that the ECC's decision on electoral complaints, violations and frauds would be final and binding.
The ECC has been endowed with special powers as well. The winner of the Presidential and Provincial Councils' elections can be announced only if the ECC approves the result.
Speaking about the selection procedure, Mr. Qazi stressed that individuals would be selected strictly on merit. He assured that gender or ethnicity would not be taken into consideration.
The Selection Committe was given 10 days' time by President Karzai to submit the list of nominees. Although, the deadline is near, so far, no one has been nominated for the ECC membership and it is unlikely that the list of 15 would be completed by the deadline given the high volume of applications.
"Well, it was the President's direction that the nomination must be completed in 10 days, but choosing the right candidate is most important," said Mr. Qazi. "We need to select the best for these positions."
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Islamabad and Kabul Agree to Relocate Taliban’s Qatar Office
Saturday, 31 August 2013 19:25 Last Updated on Saturday, 31 August 2013 21:09 Written by Rafi Sediqi
In the wake of President Hamid Karzai's trip to Islamabad last week, and over two months after plans for peace negotiations with the Taliban at their office in Qatar unraveled, a top-ranking Pakistani official reported that Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to relocate the Taliban's political office in a renewed attempt to jumpstart the peace process.
Sartaj Aziz, the Pakistani Prime Minister's National Security and Foreign Affairs Advisor, confirmed that officials in Islamabad and Kabul agreed that peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban would need to continue in a location other than Doha, capital of Qatar. However, Mohammad Ismail Qasimyar, the Spokesman for the High Peace Council – the Afghan body designated to lead the negotiations – cautioned that no new host country had yet been decided on.
Back in June, the long-stalled peace process between the Afghan government and Taliban insurgency was kick-started with promise when the opening of a Taliban political office in Qatar was announced. But the talks ended before they began when the Taliban proudly displayed its flag and an "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan" placard that officials in both Kabul and Washington claimed violated preconditions for the office's opening and misrepresented it as a type of government-in-exile. Since then, the peace process has seen no official progress while the role of Pakistan as an interlocutor between Kabul and the Taliban has taken center stage.
President Karzai's trip last week to Islamabad was largely to facilitate a conversation between him and Nawaz Sharif, the newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan, regarding bilateral relations broadly and getting the Taliban back to the negotiating table in particular. Just as Afghan officials have routinely tossed accusations against their Pakistani counterparts for providing support of the Taliban insurgency, in desperation to get the peace process back on track, they have looked to utilize that same leverage Pakistani officials have with the insurgents to push them toward talks.
Paying credence to the idea of Islamabad being a useful intermediary, Pakistani officials have offered continued lip-service to the peace process yet been careful to not speak out against the Taliban. "Islamabad will not support a single group in Afghanistan, but instead, we want the participation of all groups to form a stable Afghanistan," said Mr. Aziz when he spoke about the relocation of the Taliban office.
Nevertheless, even if Pakistan is able to effectually contribute to getting peace talks back on track, many in Afghanistan would likely remain suspicious of their South Asian neighbor and its intentions.
"The government of Pakistan has a new plan to get the country out of the economic crises, but this is only possible when Afghanistan is stable, when trade opportunities are possible and when transit routes are available," explained Mr. Qasimyar. "The government of Pakistan has noticed this issue and for the sake of their own economic gain, they are willing to help Afghanistan in starting peace talks."
Afghan political and security experts are similarly dubious about Pakistan's intentions, but also its ability to live-up to expectations regarding the peace process.
"Pakistan is trying to take the lead during peace talks between the government of Afghanistan and the Taliban, and Pakistan has firm relations with Saudi Arabia, which is why Pakistan wants the Taliban's new office there," said Mir Ahmad Joyenda, an Afghan political expert. "Yet, it is not clear whether the civilian government of Pakistan has the support of its military intelligence for these aims. If not, the Pakistani government's efforts in the peace process will have no significant results."
In the past, the government of Afghanistan's requests for honest and sincere cooperation from the Pakistani government in order to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table went unanswered. Nevertheless, for whatever reason, the new government of Narwaz Sharif has promised to turn over a new leaf.
"This is the new chapter of relations between the two countries, the Pakistani prime minister is committed to stop all meddling in Afghanistan's internal politics, and he is determined to further develop bilateral relations with Afghanistan, believing strongly that Afghanistan's national sovereignty is valued," said Khurrum Dastageer Khan, a Pakistani Cabinet Minister, recently.
Assuming Pakistan and Afghanistan are able to put past differences behind them, however, there is nothing to say a renewed peace process would see a departure from the failures of past attempts. It is at least hard to imagine a simple change of scenery making the difference.
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RULES OF WAR?.... until NewAgeNazi Muslim monsters who destory innocent Muslims and kill 100 at will because they just feel like it.... GET TO SERVE AND LIVE UNDER THE SAME LAWS- walk away...
When our sons and daughters wearing our Nato flags die continuously at the whim of political fat cats who wouldn't know war if they fell on one.... actually step on the horrendous battlefields that MUSLIM COUNTRIES HAVE CREATED IN THEIR CESSPOOL OF BLATANT HATRED.... then let's talk about 'Rules of Conduct.... we all remember RWANDA
United States sovereignty: UN intrusion a growing concern
by Daya Gamage
Who decides the rules of war? The chief prosecutor’s office of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is currently collecting information on alleged war crimes committed by the US soldiers in Afghanistan. UN General Assembly at Session
A house ravaged by the war in Afghanistan
The ICC claims jurisdiction over American troops even though the United States has refused to join the ICC treaty, because the alleged violations in Afghanistan, which is a party to the treaty. The alleged violations of the laws of war are acts (e.g. mistaken killing of civilians) that the United States has never considered as war crimes.
The ICC prosecutor said his investigators were getting information from human rights NGOs. Will American human rights lawyers continue to work with the ICC against US soldiers and maintain that their own sectarian definition of international humanitarian law trumps US constitutional law?
Above is a strong sentiment running in the halls of the United States Congress, among noted constitutional experts and influential opinion-shapers. A sentiment that was never presented forcefully by a South Asian nation - Sri Lanka - when it faced the issue of ‘war crimes’, ‘killing of unarmed civilians’, and even engaged in ‘genocide'.
What is building on the American soil - in connection with its domestic and foreign policies in its ‘Global War on Terrorism’ - is to combat the narratives that allow an overtly and covertly building atmosphere aimed at depicting the United States as engaged in ‘war crimes’ and bring that nation toward UN scrutiny.
The Americans hate outside interference in their policy decisions and actions construing as ‘assault on its sovereignty'.
Tamil diaspora
One could see a parallel here; Sri Lanka, which concluded a battle in May 2009 which threatened its territorial integrity and an imminent bifurcation unleashed through nation-wide terror of 26 years, endeavours to find the ‘correct’ narrative as much as the US, to combat the separatist elements who are operating within the Tamil diaspora domiciled in Western nations whose final objective is to subject the South Asian nation to (UN) laws of war.
Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has already challenged the UN to provide a cogent explanation as to how it arrived at the figure of 40,000 civilian deaths during the final months of the war against separatist Tamil Tigers or the LTTE.
But there is a difference; no political activist either in the Congress or in state governments ‘appeal’ to the United Nations to use its ‘global’ powers to bring their nation to international scrutiny - the crust of the issue of sovereignty.
The main political Opposition in Sri Lanka, in contrast, wants the UN to scrutinise the nation, an infringement of a nation's sovereignty.
The crucial question raised in the United States is: Who determines the laws of war? The globalists believe that they (the ICC, NGOs, UN Human Rights Council, postmodern States), not the Israelis themselves, should determine the rules by which Israel is permitted to defend itself. For example, Israel (like the United States and India) is not a party to Additional Protocol I of the Geneva Conventions (adopted in 1977). Yet, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) is constantly charged by the globalists with violations of "international law," who often cite Protocol I (e.g. failure to warn civilians before an air attack).
The globalists (and Islamists) do this even though they know that the principle of "state consent" is at the heart of customary international law and that Israel has not ratified Protocol I.
The above (American) sentiments penetrate right into the sovereignty of the US, and of course nations such as Sri Lanka which is facing scrutiny of the UN needs to take note of the ‘transnationalist’ efforts that steer laws of sovereign nations.
The leading voice in the US with regard to ‘UN infringement on US sovereignty’ is former Republican Senator (who served three terms 95-13 and in the House 87-94) Jon Kyl who recently declared in well received lecture series to policy developers and policymakers that "When your society is regulated to that extent by someone who has no accountability to voters, something is very, very wrong," he says. "The transnationalists should be the last ones lecturing anybody about what ought to be because what is the US Constitution, which recognises sovereignty in the American people. That is embedded in everything about our country. It's not outmoded—it's who we are. And if you're not willing to accept that, then you haven't signed on to the most basic notion of what it is to believe about our country."
Transnationalism
What Senator Kyl meant by transnationalism means "across" or "beyond" nations. Transnationalism signifies legal action and authority beyond national laws. It represents an intrusion into the domestic affairs of nation-states. What concerns the US is that the UN legal system and its actions through that system interferes in the sovereignty.
Talking about interfering in representative governments Jon Kyl says "But they (the internationalists in the UN) are in too much of a hurry to mess with the difficulties of representative government to get their agenda adopted into law—or they know they can't win democratically. So they look for a way around representative government."
The commentator and columnist Sohrab Ahmari put it this way: Kyl knows something about representative government. After a four-term stint in the House, he entered the Senate in 1995 and quickly emerged as a serious thinker on defence matters. In 1999, armed with his substantive knowledge, he led Senate Republican opposition to the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. The treaty's ultimate goal, he charged at the time, was "total nuclear disarmament," an effort by US adversaries and global arms-controllers to defang America's nuclear deterrent.
Now he has taken it as his mission to defeat the transnationalist efforts to steer American law. And he finds himself once again contemplating treaties that don't bode well for the US. A favourite transnationalist tactic is pushing the U.S. to ratify treaties like the three-decades-old UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the more recent Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Such treaties, Mr. Kyl says, "have a lot of loose language that in the hands of the wrong people can demand far more than was ever intended by the American people."
Says Mr. Kyl: "Once you have ceded authority to an external body to make decisions, our theory of government—accountability in officials, consent of the governed—is very difficult to uphold.
So you want to give up sovereignty sparingly and only when there is a clear benefit to doing so. I'm not saying the Senate should never ratify a treaty on behalf of the people, but I'm saying it should take the responsibility very seriously."
Has Sri Lanka ever given some thoughts to the sentiments expressed by Senator Jon Kyl? Especially to "Once you have ceded authority to an external body to make decisions, our theory of government—accountability in officials, consent of the governed—is very difficult to uphold."
John Fonte, Ph.D. a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute presenting his book in September 2011 Sovereignty or Submission: Will Americans Rule Themselves or be Ruled by Others? declared the following:
The concept of "global governance" is in the air. For many of the world’s elites—who gather at places like Geneva, Davos, The Hague, UN headquarters in Manhattan, and wherever the G20 meets—global governance is the "big idea". Leading thinkers argue that today’s global issues are too complex for the "obsolete" nation-state system. Major political leaders say that "global problems require global solutions". We are told that "sovereignty" must be redefined as something that is "shared" or "pooled".
There is no doubt that as the twenty-first century progresses, globalisation will increase. But, the central question is: What form will globalisation take? Will it be international—based on sovereign states—or will it be transnational or supranational?
Transnationalism means "across" or "beyond" nations. Transnationalism signifies legal action and authority beyond national laws. It represents an intrusion into the domestic affairs of nation-states. What concerns the US, and its opponents such as John Fonte, is that the UN legal system and its actions through that system interferes in the sovereignty.
Small nation-states such as Sri Lanka are worst off if such states accept the status quo.
Here is the greater concern in the United States, and it is growing:
The UN Human Rights Treaty system is the single greatest threat to the international legal order since the end of the cold war.
It undermines the sovereignty of nation states, by removing norm making power from democratic processes, and giving it to intellectual elites, accountable to no one, and who are content with increasing benefits and taxes until nations collapse.
Reservations
The only human rights treaties that the United States is a party to merely establish rights that US citizens already possess under the US Constitution. Even so, when the US ratified those treaties it recorded reservations stating that the United States would not give any international arbiter, like the International Court of Justice, jurisdiction over disputes that might arise under treaty provisions without US consent, and that any conflict between the Treaty and the US Constitution would be resolved in favour of the Constitution.
The effect of those reservations is to eliminate even the remotest possibility that the US was giving up its norm creating power to an international body, process or mechanism. That norm creating power is an essential attribute of sovereignty, that is increasingly under attack by international elites that inhabit the United Nations and other supra-national mechanisms.
A columnist very aptly stated often applying to developing nations: There are also many legal problems associated with international processes, like the nascent UN Human Rights Treaty System, chief of which is the confusion of multiple legal systems into a single binding text of international law.
The Common Law system, which allows for some translation, has a remarkable variety of incarnations across the globe.
But the Civil Law system is entirely different from Common Law system (some would even say incompatible), and it too varies enormously from country to country. This means that one provision written into a treaty can mean a multiplicity of things to each individual country and the peculiarities of their own legal system.
Finally, there are the abuses of treaty bodies and UN agencies, which have become a major concern for UN member states, and because of which a process of reform is currently under way.
Both treaty bodies and powerful UN agencies routinely expand the meaning of international instrument, disregarding the sovereignty of the nations that constituted them. Moreover, treaty bodies routinely act ultra vires by purporting to issue rulings in a quasi-judicial capacity.
In sum, it would be imprudent for the United States to ratify another UN human rights treaty until the UN system is reformed. Ratifying the convention would be seen as United States approval for this way of conducting business.
We repeat here the opening paragraph of this note:
Who decides the Rules of War? The chief prosecutor’s office of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is currently involved in collecting information on alleged war crimes committed by U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan. The ICC claims jurisdiction over American troops even though the United States has refused to join the ICC treaty, because the alleged violations in Afghanistan, which is a party to the treaty.
The alleged violations of the laws of war are acts (e.g. mistaken killing of civilians) that the United States has never considered as war crimes. The ICC prosecutor said his investigators were getting information from human rights NGOs. Will American human rights lawyers continue to work with the ICC against US soldiers and maintain that their own sectarian definition of international humanitarian law trumps the US constitutional law?
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2013/09/01/fea03.asp
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ON THE ABOVE- WE REMEMBER.... and we stand by our troops on the ground.... MILLIONS WALKED THE LINE 2 VOTE 4 PETER MACKAY AND OUR TROOPS IN CANADA... over The Michael the media pushed in2 our faces..... reality told us.... and taught us better...... Peter Mackay is the best loved leader of troops on the ground in Afghanistan- they remember- all Nato- MacKay walked the talk when u couldn't find a politician anywhere 2 support our men and women sacrificing their lives each and every damm day.... in Iraq and Afghanistan....
We... also... remember... RWANDA
UNITED NATIONS GREATEST PEACEKEEPING HERO- CANADA'S ROMEO DALLAIRE- THE SAVIOUR OF RWANDA- the world's compassionate folks will never 4get the great hero of Rwanda whom United Nations and global media betrayed in 100 days of silence- NEVA AGAIN-RULES OF ENGAGEMENT-
We love u Romeo Dallaire- 4ever and 4always
Shake Hands With the Devil - Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaHAXnOGj9k
COMMENT:
Roméo Dallaire is probably our greatest living hero, but this isn't the first time he got mixed up with organizations with duplicitous motives. The United Nations sent him to Africa to save people from genocide, but they effectively tied his hands, made him watch, and then blamed him for the failure.
Roméo Dallaire 'embarrassed' over mix-up with fringe group
Lack of due diligence sees senator hired to lecture by organization accused of anti-Semitism
CBC News
Posted: Aug 26, 2013 8:55 PM ET
Last Updated: Aug 26, 2013 10:49 PM ET
Senator Roméo Dallaire was being promoted as a speaker at a conference organized by the Fatima Centre, a fringe Catholic group accused of anti-Semitism. Dallaire has since pulled out of the engagement. Senator Roméo Dallaire was being promoted as a speaker at a conference organized by the Fatima Centre, a fringe Catholic group accused of anti-Semitism. Dallaire has since pulled out of the engagement. (Pawel Dwulit/The Canadian Press)
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/08/26/dallaire-fatima-conference.html
External Links
The Fatima Centre's conference website
(Note:CBC does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of external links.)
Senator Roméo Dallaire has pulled out of a speaking engagement organized by a fringe Catholic group accused of anti-Semitism, but his name is still being promoted alongside those of anti-abortionists, conspiracy theorists and former U.S. presidential candidate Ron Paul.
A Dallaire aide said Monday that the retired Canadian Forces general was "embarrassed" and "really unhappy" to have been accidentally mixed up with a southern Ontario group called the Fatima Centre, which is organizing a conference next month in Niagara Falls, Ont.
The Fatima Centre is a Catholic organization whose publications include references to "the duty incumbent upon Catholics of... opposing Jewish Naturalism" and to "Satan's plans against the Church," which include "the granting of full citizenship to the Jews." The Alabama-based Southern Poverty Law Center, a non-profit that lists organizations it deems to be hate groups, says the Fatima Centre is part of a movement that is "perhaps the single largest group of hard-core anti-Semites in North America."
Other speakers scheduled for the conference include the president of the U.S.-based John Birch Society, a right-wing American group that campaigns against the U.S. Federal Reserve, says the UN is trying to control "all human activity" and claims Nelson Mandela is "carrying forward a communist program of terrorism and genocide."
The conference's keynote speaker is Paul, the former U.S. congressman and three-time candidate for president. Photos of Paul and Dallaire feature in ads for the conference on the internet and on a billboard near the Peace Bridge to the U.S.
"There is absolutely no way that General Dallaire would be associated with these speakers," his personal secretary, David Hyman, said in an interview Monday.
Hyman said it stemmed from an oversight. The senator's appearance at the conference was booked last March through the agency that arranges his speaking engagements, the National Speakers Bureau.
But when the agency called, they named a different group that was seeking to have the former lieutenant-general come and speak about the Rwandan genocide.
"It was called the National Pilgrim Virgin of Canada. We didn't have a clue that this other organization that were sponsoring his talk had anything to do with Fatima," Hyman said.
In fact, National Pilgrim Virgin of Canada is the official name for the Fatima Centre.
Dallaire's staff only found out last week through a civil rights lawyer.
"He said, 'Do you know who this group is? I'm really disappointed that the senator is going to this conference,' " Hyman said. "And I looked, I went to their site, I downloaded the list of other speakers and started to look at them."
Hyman blames himself for the lack of due diligence.
"I should have Googled."
'Not against the Jews'
A conference organizer said there was absolutely no intent to deceive because "everybody knows us as the Fatima Centre."
Coralie Graham, who is also one of the centre's directors, said they've been assured they will be refunded Dallaire's appearance fee, but they're still out the cost of their Dallaire advertising, which they will have to scotch.
Graham also affirmed that the Fatima Centre is in no way anti-Semitic and has been the victim of smear campaigns and guilt by association.
"We are not against the Jews and never have been and never will be," she said by phone.
"It doesn't matter whether it's Jewish, it's Catholics, it's politics: There's always good guys and a couple bad guys, so when you're speaking about some wrongs, you're not painting the whole race with the same brush."
As for the conference speakers from the John Birch Society, Graham said the Fatima Centre isn't affiliated with the group, but just booked lectures on the conference theme of peace.
"It's just a case of our speakers have been selected that have something to say to the people that this is happening in the world, and take off your rose-coloured glasses and see it, people. Because we have a crisis in the world. I've heard that all the generals are saying there's going to be World War III."
Responding to the incident, the Toronto-based Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs said in a statement that it was "concerned by anti-Jewish content" on some websites affiliated with the Fatima Centre and that "it’s important that people of good will — particularly public officeholders — distance themselves from such extremism."
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/08/26/dallaire-fatima-conference.html
-----------------------
Ombudsman to probe ‘failing’ military support for injured war vets
By Chris Cobb, OTTAWA CITIZEN August 26, 2013
http://www.canada.com/news/Ombudsman+probe+failing+military+support+injured+vets/8835654/story.html
-----------------------------
HUMOUR.... MIND U A FEW YEARS BACK... MILLIONS WATCHING THE BACKS OF OUR TROOPS WERE VERY ANGRY....
A Canadian female libertarian wrote a lot of letters to the Canadian government, complaining about the treatment of captive insurgents (terrorists) being held in Afghanistan National Correctional System facilities. She demanded a response to her letter. She received back the following reply:
National Defense Headquarters
M Gen George R. Pearkes Bldg.,
15 NT 101 Colonel By Drive Ottawa , ON
K1A 0K2
Canada Dear Concerned Citizen,
Thank you for your recent letter expressing your profound concern of treatment of the Taliban and Al Qaeda terrorists captured by Canadian Forces, who were subsequently transferred to the Afghanistan Government and are currently being held by Afghan officials in Afghanistan National Correctional System facilities. Our administration takes these matters seriously and your opinions were heard loud and clear here in Ottawa . You will be pleased to learn, thanks to the concerns of citizens like yourself, we are creating a new department here at the Department of National Defense, to be called 'Liberals Accept Responsibility for Killers' program, or L.A.R.K. for short.
In accordance with the guidelines of this new program, we have decided, on a trial basis, to divert several terrorists and place them in homes of concerned citizens such as yourself, around the country, under those citizen's personal care. Your personal detainee has been selected and is scheduled for transportation under heavily armed guard to your residence in Toronto next Monday.
Ali Mohammed Ahmed bin Mahmud is your detainee, and is to be cared for pursuant to the standards you personally demanded in your letter of complaint. You will be pleased to know that we will conduct weekly inspections to ensure that your standards of care for Ahmed are commensurate with your recommendations.
Although Ahmed is a sociopath and extremely violent, we hope that your sensitivity to what you described as his 'attitudinal problem' will help him overcome those character flaws. Perhaps you are correct in describing these problems as mere cultural differences. We understand that you plan to offer counseling and home schooling, however, we strongly recommend that you hire some assistant caretakers.
Please advise any Jewish friends, neighbors or relatives about your house guest, as he might get agitated or even violent, but we are sure you can reason with him. He is also expert at making a wide variety of explosive devices from common household products, so you may wish to keep those items locked up, unless in your opinion, this might offend him. Your adopted terrorist is extremely proficient in hand-to-hand combat and can extinguish human life with such simple items as a pencil or nail clippers. We advise that you do not ask him to demonstrate these skills either in your home or wherever you choose to take him while helping him adjust to life in our country.
Ahmed will not wish to interact with you or your daughters except sexually, since he views females as a form of property, thereby having no rights, including refusal of his sexual demands. This is a particularly sensitive subject for him.
You also should know that he has shown violent tendencies around women who fail to comply with the dress code that he will recommend as more appropriate attire. I'm sure you will come to enjoy the anonymity offered by the burka over time. Just remember that it is all part of 'respecting his culture and religious beliefs' as described in your letter.
You take good care of Ahmed and remember that we will try to have a counselor available to help you over any difficulties you encounter while Ahmed is adjusting to Canadian culture.
Thanks again for your concern. We truly appreciate it when folks like you keep us informed of the proper way to do our job and care for our fellow man. Good luck and God bless you.
Cordially,
Gordon O'Connor
Minister of National Defense
------------------------------------
Hackers tackle foreign aid data in Canada’s first international development hackathon
The Canadian International Development Agency started publishing aid data in IATI format in 2012 and government has said the new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development will continue to publish quarterly spending in this format.
http://o.canada.com/2013/08/25/hackers-tackle-foreign-aid-data-in-canadas-first-international-development-hackathon/
===============
One Pissed off Canadian Housewife
This is very good PLEASE read....
Thought you might like to read this letter
to the editor.
Ever notice how some people
just seem to know how to write a letter?
This one surely does!
This was written by a Canadian woman, but oh how
it also applies to the U.S.A., U.K. and Australia .
THIS ONE PACKS A FIRM PUNCH
Written by a housewife in New Brunswick , to
her local newspaper. This is one ticked off lady...
"Are we fighting a war on terror or aren't we? Was
it or was it not, started by Islamic people who
brought it to our shores on September 11, 2001
and have continually threatened to do so since?
Were people from all over the world, not brutally murdered
that day, in downtown Manhattan , across the Potomac from
the capitol of the USA and in a field in Pennsylvania?
Did nearly three thousand men, women and children die a horrible, burning or crushing death that day, or didn't they?
Do you think I care about four U. S. Marines urinating on some dead Taliban insurgents?
And I'm supposed to care that a few Taliban were
claiming to be tortured by a justice system of a
nation they are fighting against in a brutal Insurgency.
I'll care about the Koran when the fanatics in the Middle
East, start caring about the Holy Bible, the mere belief
of which, is a crime punishable by beheading in Afghanistan .
I'll care when these thugs tell the world they are
sorry for hacking off Nick Berg's head, while Berg
screamed through his gurgling slashed throat.
I'll care when the cowardly so-called insurgents
in Afghanistan , come out and fight like men,
instead of disrespecting their own religion by
hiding in Mosques and behind women and children.
I'll care when the mindless zealots who blow
themselves up in search of Nirvana, care about the
innocent children within range of their suicide Bombs.
I'll care when the Canadian media stops pretending that
their freedom of Speech on stories, is more important than
the lives of the soldiers on the ground or their families waiting
at home, to hear about them when something happens.
In the meantime, when I hear a story about a
CANADIAN soldier roughing up an Insurgent
terrorist to obtain information, know this:
I don't care.
When I see a wounded terrorist get shot in the
head when he is told not to move because he
might be booby-trapped, you can take it to the bank:
I don't care. Shoot him again.
When I hear that a prisoner, who was issued a Koran and a prayer mat, and fed 'special' food, that is paid for by my tax dollars, is complaining that his holy book is being 'mishandled,' you can absolutely believe, in your heart of hearts:
I don't care.
And oh, by the way, I've noticed that sometimes
it's spelled 'Koran' and other times 'Quran.'
Well, Jimmy Crack Corn you guessed it.
I don't care!!
If you agree with this viewpoint, pass this on to
all your E-mail Friends. Sooner or later, it'll get to
the people responsible for this ridiculous behavior!
If you don't agree, then by all means hit the delete
button. Should you choose the latter, then please don't
complain when more atrocities committed by radical
Muslims happen here in our great Country! And may I add:
Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering, if
during their life on earth, they made a difference in
the world. But, the Soldiers don't have that problem.
I have another quote that I would like to
share AND...I hope you forward All this.
One last thought for the day:
Only five defining forces have ever offered to die for you:
1. Jesus Christ
2. The British Soldier.
3. The Canadian Soldier.
4. The US Soldier, and
5. The Australian Soldier
One died for your soul,
the other four, for you and your children's Freedom.
YOU MIGHT WANT TO PASS THIS ON,
AS MANY SEEM TO FORGET!
----------------------
SERIOUSLY AUSTRALIA???? .... these NewAgeNazi Muslim killing Muslim monsters- in a hard assed war zone in Afghanistan- WHY DO THE MONSTERS HAVE NO RULES??? Why does Islamic nations continue 2 generate this cesspool of hate against the planet and Nato must toe the Rules of Engagement whilst thousands and thousands of our Nations children die and over a million innocent Muslims ???
The world's 7 billion people are so sick of this deliberate hate being catered 2 in a world where these NewAgeNazi Muslim Monsters HAVE NO RULES.... it's like Rwanda all over again....
THE IDEA IS 2 GET FINGERPRINTS- IN A ZONE WHERE FREAKSHOWS ARE KILLING INNOCENT MUSLIMS AND OUR PRECIOUS NATO TROOPS- Please stop putting rules where Muslim Monsters don't play by them
Australian Troops In Afghanistan Investigated Over 'Misconduct' Report
Troops from Australian special forces are being probed over an incident involving severed hands. (file photo)
August 30, 2013
Soldiers from Australia's special forces are under investigation amid allegations that they cut off the hands of at least one dead insurgent in Afghanistan.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reports that the incident allegedly took place after a fierce battle in April in the southern province of Zabul. Four insurgents were killed in the fighting.
The Australian broadcaster said severed hands were brought to an Australian base in Tarin Kowt in Uruzgan Province after the soldiers were instructed to collect fingerprints and eye scans from dead insurgents whenever possible.
The military confirmed it was investigating "an incident of potential misconduct" alleged to have occurred during an April 28 operation.
It did not provide further details, saying the investigation was ongoing.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has expressed confidence the military will carry out a proper investigation.
-------------------
Canada Reveille
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXNuwZLkliQ
--------------
AND..
What is the sound of a repatriation???
by Brian Muntz
Is it the sound of the chatter on TV announcing the name of the fallen serving our country? Perhaps the sound from the roar of the large military jet landing in Trenton? Is it the sound of the doors opening on the air craft or the sound of the boots of the soldiers carrying the coffin? Is it the sound of the pipers playing a song of sorrow, or the sound of the commanding officer calling his orders. Was it the sound of the Hearse doors opening or the sound of the people and family near by. Repatriation may be the sound of the cars moving to the Highway of Heroes but then again it may be the sound of the people standing on the bridges. Is it the sound of the traffic going by in anticipation of the procession or the sound of the occasional horn honking as drivers see you on the bridge. Maybe it's the sound of the flags flapping in the wind that people are holding. Then in the distance the procession is in sight and the people on the bridge are mumbling "here it comes". Is the sound of repatriation the police sirens that fills the air as the procession reaches your bridge? The sound of sirens vibrate in your chest then in a beat of your heart you finally hear the sound of a repatriation. It is the sound of a silent "Thank You" from you and all the people around you to the soldier that gave his life for his country; your country. This is the sound of a repatriation; our freedom.
-- Oh Canada, they stood on guard for thee --
Master Corporal Byron Greff 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
October 29, 2011
A Canadian Forces member was killed by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device while transiting through Kabul as a passenger on an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) vehicle.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Master Corporal Francis Roy Canadian Special Operations Regiment based at CFB Petawawa, Ontario
June 25 2011
One Canadian Forces member was found dead from non-combat related wounds at approximately 6:00 a.m. local Kandahar time on 25 June 2011 at a coalition forward operating base in Kandahar City.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Bombardier Karl Manning, from 5e Régiment d'artillerie légère du Canada based at CFB Valcartier, Quebec
May 27 2011
One Canadian Forces member was found dead from non-combat related wounds at approximately 5:30 a.m. local Kandahar time on 27 May 2011 at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Zangabad, located 45 Kilometres southwest of Kandahar Airfield.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Yannick Scherrer, from 1er Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, based at CFB Valcartier, Quebec serving with 1er Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group
March 27 2011
Corporal Yannick Scherrer was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted partnered patrol in the Panjwa’i district of Kandahar Province at approximately 12 p.m. (noon) Kandahar time on Sunday, March 27, 2011.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Steve Martin, from 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, serving with 1st Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group, based at CFB Valcartier, Quebec
December 18, 2010
Corporal Steve Martin was killed December 18th, 2010, after an improvised explosive device detonated while on operations in the Panjwa’i district of Kandahar Province, at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal (Cpl) Brian Pinksen from 2nd Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment, Corner Brook Newfoundland,
Aug 30 2010
Corporal (Cpl) Brian Pinksen from 2nd Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment, based in Corner Brook Newfoundland succumbed to his injuries at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center Aug 30 2010 from an IED explosion on Aug 25 2010 in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Sapper Brian Collier 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, Edmonton, Alberta
July 20 2010
Sapper Brian Collier was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol in the Panjwa’i District, about 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, at approximately 9:00 a.m. Kandahar time.
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Go to Memorial
Master Corporal Kristal Giesebrecht 1 Canadian Field Hospital, Petawawa, Ontario.
June 26 2010
Master Corporal Kristal Giesebrecht was killed when the vehicle they were travelling in as part of a convoy struck an improvised explosive device.
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Go to Memorial
Private Andrew Miller 2 Canadian Field Hospital, Petawawa, Ontario.
June 26 2010
Private Andrew Miller was killed when the vehicle they were travelling in as part of a convoy struck an improvised explosive device.
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Go to Memorial
Sergeant James Patrick Macneil 1st Combat Engineer Regiment, Petawawa, Ontario, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group
June 21 2010
Sergeant James Patrick Macneil was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, in the Panjwa’i District, at approximately 8:00 a.m. Kandahar time on 21 June 2010.
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Go to Memorial
Sergeant Martin Goudreault 1st Combat Engineer Regiment, Edmonton, AB, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group
June 6 2010
Sergeant Martin Goudreault was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol, about 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, in the Panjwayi District, at approximately 6:30 a.m. Kandahar time on 6 June 2010.
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Go to Memorial
Trooper Larry John Zuidema Rudd , Royal Canadian Dragoons, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, Petawawa, Ontario.
May 24 2010
Trooper Larry John Zuidema Rudd was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a routine security operation, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, in the Panjwa’i District, at approximately 12:30 p.m. Kandahar time on 24 May 2010
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Go to Memorial
Colonel Geoff Parker, Royal Canadian Regiment
May 18 2010
Colonel Geoff Parker was killed after an insurgent detonated a vehicle borne improvised explosive device between the convoy of vehicles in Kabul at approximately 8 a.m. local Afghanistan time on 18 May 2010.
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Go to Memorial
Private Kevin Thomas McKay 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, Alberta.
May 13 2010
Private Kevin Thomas McKay was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted night patrol in the Panjwayi district, approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, at 8:00 p.m. Kandahar time on May 13, 2010.
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Go to Memorial
Petty Officer Second Class Craig Blake a member of Fleet Diving Unit (Atlantic), based in Shearwater, Nova Scotia.
May 3 2010
Petty Officer Second Class Craig Blake was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted operation, about 25 kilometers southwest of Kandahar City, in the Panjwayi District, at approximately 4:40 p.m. Kandahar time on 3 May 2010.
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Go to Memorial
Private Tyler William Todd from the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Edmonton, Alberta
April 11 2010
Private Tyler William Todd was killed by an improvised explosive device that detonated during a dismounted security patrol in Dand district at approximately 7:30 a.m. Kandahar time on 11 April 2010.
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Go to Memorial
Cpl. Darren James Fitzpatrick 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, CFB Edmonton
March 20 2010
Cpl. Darren James Fitzpatrick 3rd Battalion died in an Edmonton Hospital after succoring to his injuries from a road side bomb March 6 2010 in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Corporal Joshua Caleb Baker The Loyal Edmonton Regiment (4th Battalion PPCLI), Edmonton, Alberta,
February 12 2010
Corporal Joshua Caleb Baker was killed in a training accident on a range located approximately 4 km northeast of Kandahar City. The accident took place at about 5:00 p.m., Kandahar time
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Go to Memorial
Sergeant John Wayne Faught 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Edmonton, Alberta
January 16 2010
Sergeant John Wayne Faught was killed by an improvised explosive device during a dismounted security patrol near the town of Nakhonay in the Panjwayi district, approximately 15 kilometres south-west of Kandahar City.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Sergeant George Miok a member of 41 Combat Engineer Regiment, based in Edmonton
December 30, 2009
Sergeant George Miok was killed in an improvised explosive device that detonated during a patrol 4 km south of Kandahar City at approximately 4:00 p.m., Kandahar time.
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Go to Memorial
Sergeant Kirk Taylor a member of 84 Independent Field Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery, Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
December 30, 2009
Sergeant George Miok was killed in an improvised explosive device that detonated during a patrol 4 km south of Kandahar City at approximately 4:00 p.m., Kandahar time.
Corporal Zachery McCormack Loyal Edmonton Regiment, 4th Battalion PPCLI, based in Edmonton
December 30, 2009
Sergeant George Miok was killed in an improvised explosive device that detonated during a patrol 4 km south of Kandahar City at approximately 4:00 p.m., Kandahar time.
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Private Garrett William Chidley 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba
December 30, 2009
Sergeant George Miok was killed in an improvised explosive device that detonated during a patrol 4 km south of Kandahar City at approximately 4:00 p.m., Kandahar time.
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Lieutenant Andrew Richard Nuttall, 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (1 PPCLI) Edmonton, Alberta
December 23, 2009
Lieutenant Andrew Richard Nuttall was killed by an improvised explosive device that detonated during a joint foot patrol near the village of Nakhonay in Panjwaii District, about 25 km southwest of Kandahar City, on December 23, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Sapper Steven Marshall, 1st Combat Engineering Regiment based in Edmonton, Alberta
Lieutenant Justin Boyes, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
October 30 2009
Sapper Steven Marshall was killed by an improvised explosive device that detonated near their dismounted patrol approximately 10 km south-west of Kandahar City at approximately 4:30 p.m. Kandahar Time on 30 Oct 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Lieutenant Justin Boyes, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
October 28 2009
Lieutenant Justin Boyes was killed by an improvised explosive device that detonated near their dismounted patrol. The incident occurred approximately 20 kilometres south-west of Kandahar City at around 9 a.m., Kandahar time, on 28 October 2009
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Go to Memorial
Private Jonathan Couturier, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
September 17 2009
Private Jonathan Couturier was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated in the vicinity of his vehicle while on patrol in Panjwai District. The incident occurred approximately 25 kilometres South-West of Kandahar City at around 10:15 a.m., Kandahar time, on 17th September, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Private Patrick Lormand, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
Corporal Jean-François Drouin 5e Régiment du génie de combat, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
September 13 2009
Private Patrick Lormand was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near his armoured vehicle on a road in Panwjai District. The incident occurred approximately 10 kilometres South-West of Kandahar City at around 1:00 p.m., Kandahar time, on 13th September, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Jean-François Drouin 5e Régiment du génie de combat, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
September 6 2009
Corporal Jean-François Drouin was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near their armoured vehicle in the vicinity of Dand District, approximately 14 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City at around 12:00 p.m., Kandahar time, on 6 September 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Major Yannick Pépin 5e Régiment du génie de combat, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
September 6 2009
Major Yannick Pépin was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near their armoured vehicle in the vicinity of Dand District, approximately 14 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City at around 12:00 p.m., Kandahar time, on 6 September 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Christian Bobbitt 5e Régiment du génie de combat, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
August 1 2009
Corporal Christian Bobbitt was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometres west of Kandahar City at around 3:20 p.m., Kandahar time, on 1 August, 2009..
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Go to Memorial
Sapper Matthieu Allard 5e Régiment du génie de combat, 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group Valcartier, Quebec.
August 1 2009
Sapper Matthieu Allard was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometres west of Kandahar City at around 3:20 p.m., Kandahar time, on 1 August, 2009..
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Go to Memorial
Private Sébastien Courcy 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment based in Quebec City, Quebec
July 16 2009
Killed in action was Private Sébastien Courcy from 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment based in Quebec City, Quebec. Pte Courcy was serving as a member of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group.
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Go to Memorial
Master Corporal Pat Audet from 430e Escadron tactique d'hélicoptères Valcartier QUE
July 6 2009
Master-Corporal Pat Audet was killed when a Canadian CH-146 Griffon helicopter crashed during take-off. The incident occurred at a Forward Operating Base in Tarnak Va Jaldak, Zabul Province, northeast of Kandahar City at around 1:50 p.m., Kandahar time, on 6 July 2009..
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Martin Joannette from the 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment Valcartier QUE
July 6 2009
Corporal Martin Joannette was killed when a Canadian CH-146 Griffon helicopter crashed during take-off. The incident occurred at a Forward Operating Base in Tarnak Va Jaldak, Zabul Province, northeast of Kandahar City at around 1:50 p.m., Kandahar time, on 6 July 2009
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Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud, 2e Batallion, Royal 22e Régiment Valcartier Quebec City
July 4 2009
Master-Corporal Michaud succumbed to his injuries at approximately 2 p.m. EDT on July 4, 2009 in a Quebec City hospital. Master-Corporal Michaud was seriously injured June 23 2009 when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near his dismounted patrol in Panjwayi District.
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Go to Memorial
Cpl Nicholas Bulger from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Edmonton
July 3, 2009
Corporal Nicholas Bulger was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near their armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred south-west of Kandahar City at around 11:20 a.m., Kandahar time, on 3 July, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Martin Dubé 5e Régiment de genie de combat CF Base Valcartier Quebec City.
June 14, 2009
Corporal Martin Dubé was killed as a result of an explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED). The incident occurred in the vicinity of Panjwayi District, approximately 20 km southwest of Kandahar City at around 12:30 p.m., Kandahar time, June 14, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Private Alexandre Péloquin 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment Valcartier near Quebec City.
June 8, 2009
Private Alexandre Péloquin was killed when an explosive device detonated during a foot patrol in the Panjwai District. The incident took place in an area south-west of Kandahar City at around 09:20 a.m., Kandahar time, June 8, 2009
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Go to Memorial
Major Michelle Mendes, based in Ottawa, Ontario.
April 23, 2009
At approximately 4:00 p.m. Kandahar time, 23 April 2009, a Canadian Forces member was found dead in her accommodation room, at Kandahar Airfield.
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Go to Memorial
Trooper Karine Blais, from 12e Régiment Blindé du Canada based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier
April 13, 2009
Trooper Karine Blais was killed when her armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device north of Kandahar City in the Shah Wali Kowt District.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Trooper Jack Bouthillier, The Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.
March 20, 2009
Trooper Jack Bouthillier was killed on March 20, 2009, when the vehicle in which he was travelling struck an improvised explosive device in Shah Wali Khot District, north-east of Kandahar City.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Tyler Crooks, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa
March 20, 2009
Corporal Tyler Crooks was killed on March 20, 2009, when an improvised explosive device detonated near him during a dismounted patrol in Zhari District, west of Kandahar City.
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Go to Memorial
Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes, The Royal Canadian Dragoons, based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.
March 20, 2009
Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes was killed on March 20, 2009, when the vehicle in which he was travelling struck an improvised explosive device in Shah Wali Khot District, north-east of Kandahar City.
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Go to Memorial
Master Corporal Scott Francis Vernelli, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa
March 20, 2009
Master Corporal Scott Francis Vernelli was killed on March 20, 2009, when an improvised explosive device detonated near him during a dismounted patrol in Zhari District, west of Kandahar City.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Trooper Marc Diab, The Royal Canadian Dragoons
March 8, 2009
Trooper Marc Diab was killed and four were injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Shah Wali Kot District. The incident occurred north-east from Kandahar City at around 1:15 p.m., Kandahar time, on 8 March, 2009
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Go to Memorial
Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Lincoln and Welland Regiment
March 3, 2009
Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred northwest of Kandahar City at around 5:40 p.m., Kandahar time, on 3 March, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville
March 3, 2009
Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred northwest of Kandahar City at around 5:40 p.m., Kandahar time, on 3 March, 2009..
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Kenneth Chad O’Quinn, 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron
March 3, 2009
Corporal Kenneth Chad O’Quinn, was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred northwest of Kandahar City at around 5:40 p.m., Kandahar time, on 3 March, 2009.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Sapper Sean Greenfield, 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based at CFB Petawawa
January 31, 2009
Sapper Sean Greenfield was killed when his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device approximately 40 km west of Kandahar City in Zharey District. The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m., Kandahar time, on January 31, 2009.
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Go to Memorial
Trooper Brian Richard Good, The Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa
January 7, 2009
Trooper Brian Richard Good was killed when his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device approximately 35 kilometres north of Kandahar City in the Shah Wali Kowt District.
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Go to Memorial
Warrant Officer Gaétan Roberge, 2nd Battalion, The Irish Regiment of Canada
December 27 2008
Warrant Officer Gaétan Roberge was killed on December 27, 2008, when an explosive device detonated in their vicinity in the Panjwayi District.
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Go to Memorial
Sergeant Gregory John Kruse, 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment, Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.
December 27 2008
Sergeant Gregory John Kruse was killed on December 27, 2008, when an explosive device detonated in their vicinity in the Panjwayi District.
Private Michael Bruce Freeman, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment from CFB Petawawa
December 26 2008
Private Michael Bruce Freeman died Friday afternoon when the armoured vehicle he was riding in struck an improvised explosive device during a routine security patrol in the Zhari District of Kandahar Province.
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Go to Memorial
Corporal Thomas James Hamilton, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment from CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick
December 13 2008
Corporal Thomas James Hamilton was killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 14 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time, on 13 December 200
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Go to Memorial
Private John Michael Roy Curwin, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment from CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick
December 13 2008
Private John Michael Roy Curwinwas killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 14 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time, on 13 December 200
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Go to Memorial
Private Justin Peter Jones, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment from CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick
December 13 2008
Private Justin Peter Jones was killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 14 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time, on 13 December 200
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Go to Memorial
Private Demetrios Diplaros, First Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based in Petawawa
December 5 2008
Private Demetrios Diplaros killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on their armoured vehicle during a joint patrol with Afghan National Army soldiers in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time on 5 December 2008
Corporal Mark Robert McLaren, First Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based in Petawawa
December 5 2008
Corporal Mark Robert McLaren killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on their armoured vehicle during a joint patrol with Afghan National Army soldiers in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time on 5 December 2008
Warrant Officer Robert John Wilson, First Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based in Petawawa
December 5 2008
Warrant Officer Robert John Wilson killed as a result of an improvised explosive device attack on their armoured vehicle during a joint patrol with Afghan National Army soldiers in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 15 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time on 5 December 2008
Sgt Prescott Shipway, Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba
September 7 2008
Sgt Prescott Shipway was killed after his armoured vehicle was struck an improvised explosive device (IED) during a security patrol in Panjwayii District at approximately 12:30 p.m., Kandahar time.
Corporal Andrew Paul Grenon, Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba
September 3 2008
Corporal Andrew Paul Grenon was killed after an insurgent attack on his armoured vehicle while they were conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time.
Cpl Michael James Alexander Seggie, 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba
September 3 2008
Corporal Michael James Alexander Seggie was killed after an insurgent attack on his armoured vehicle while they were conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time.
Private Chadwick James Horn, Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba
September 3 2008
Private Chadwick James Horn was killed after an insurgent attack on his armoured vehicle while they were conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time.
Sergeant Shawn Eades 12 Field Squadron, 1 Combat Engineer Regiment from Edmonton, Alberta
August 20, 2008
Sergeant Shawn Eades was one of three soldiers killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) near their vehicle while on patrol on highway 1 in Zharey district.
Corporal Dustin Roy Robert Joseph Wasden 12 Field Squadron, 1 Combat Engineer Regiment from Edmonton, Alberta
August 20, 2008
Corporal Dustin Roy Robert Joseph Wasden was one of three soldiers killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) near their vehicle while on patrol on highway 1 in Zharey district.
Sapper Stephan John Stock 12 Field Squadron, 1 Combat Engineer Regiment from Edmonton, Alberta
August 20, 2008
Sapper Stephan John Stock was one of three soldiers killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) near their vehicle while on patrol on highway 1 in Zharey district.
Master Corporal Erin Doyle 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Edmonton, Alberta
August 11, 2008
Master Corporal Erin Doyle 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton was killed while protecting their combat outpost when insurgents attacked them with rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire.
Master Corporal Joshua Brian Roberts 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba
August 9, 2008
Master Corporal Joshua Brian Roberts 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba was killed in a fire fight skirmish involving coalition forces, insurgents and a private firm that provides armed escorts for civilian convoys
Corporal James (Jim) Hayward Arnal 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba
July 18, 2008
Corporal James (Jim) Hayward Arnal 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba was killed just before midnight Kandahar time. The soldier was killed by an Improvised Explosive Device while on a foot patrol in Panjwayi District.
Private Colin William Wilmot, 2nd Battalion, PPLI, 1 Field Ambulance, Edmonton, Alberta.
July 5, 2008
Private Colin William Wilmot, 2nd Battalion, PPLI, 1 Field Ambulance succumbed to his injuries by a road side bomb detonated near a dismounted security patrol in Panjwayi District.
Corporal Brendan Anthony Downey, Military Police, Dundurn, Saskatchewan
July 4, 2008
Corporal Brendan Anthony Downey was found dead in an accommodation room in the Theatre Support Element compound in the Gulf region. Exact cause is not know at this time.
Captain Jonathan (Jon) Sutherland Snyder 1st Battalion, PPCLI, Edmonton, Alberta
June 7, 2008
Cpt. Jonathan Snyder was killed June 9:00 pm., Kandahar time. The soldier was killed after falling into a well while conducting a security patrol in Zhari District.
Captain Richard (Steve) Leary of the 2nd Battalion, PPCLI, from Shilo, Manitoba
June 3, 2008
Cpt. Richard (Steve) Leary was killed today at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time. The Canadian soldier was killed by direct fire when a joint Afghan-Canadian dismounted security patrol came under small arms fire from insurgents in the Panjwayi District.
Corporal Michael Starker, of 15 Field Ambulance
May 6, 2008
Corporal Michael Starker, of 15 Field Ambulance was killed in combat when he came under fire while on Patrol in Afghanistan. One other soldier was injured.
Private Terry John Street, 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
April 04, 2008
Private Terry John Street, from 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed today when his armoured vehicle struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
Sergeant Jason Boyes, 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI), Shilo, Manitoba.
March 16, 2008
Sergeant Jason Boyes was killed today by an explosive deviceat approximately 8:20 p.m. Kandahar time while participating in a joint Afghan-Canadian foot patrol in the Zangabad region, in the District of Panjwayi, approximately 35 km South-West of Kandahar City.
Bombardier Jérémie Ouellet,1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, Shilo, Manitoba.
March 11, 2008
At approximately 2:15 pm today Kandahar time, a Canadian soldier was found dead in an accommodation room, at Kandahar Airfield.
Trooper Michael Yuki Hayakaze, Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians), Edmonton, Alberta
March 2, 2008
At approximately 3:45 p.m. Kandahar time on March 2, Trooper Hayakaze was killed when his armoured vehicle hit a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in the Mushan region, located in the District of Panjawayi, 45 km West of Kandahar City.
Sapper Étienne Gonthier, 5th Combat Engineer Regiment, Valcartier Québec
January 23, 2008
Sapper Étienne Gonthier, Age 21, 5th Combat Engineer Regiment, Valcartier Québec who was part of a convoy was killed when the armoured vehicle he was in struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED)
Trooper Richard Renaud 12e Régiment blindé du Canada
January 15, 2008
Trooper Richard Renaud, age 26, from Alma Quebec was killed in a roadside bomb attack in southern Afghanistan. He was a member of the Valcartier-based 12e Régiment blindé du Canada, which can be informally translated as the 12th Canadian Armoured Regiment.
Corporal Éric Labbé, 2nd Bataillon, Royal 22nd Régiment, Valcartier Québec
January 6, 2008
Éric Labbé, age 31, was killed at approximately 6:30 p.m. Kandahar time on January 6, when their Light Armoured Vehicle rolled over, during a tactical move across difficult terrain.
Warrant Officer Hani Massouh, 2nd Bataillon, Royal 22nd Régiment, Valcartier, Québec
January 6, 2008
Hani Massouh, age 41, was killed at approximately 6:30 p.m. Kandahar time on January 6, when their Light Armoured Vehicle rolled over, during a tactical move across difficult terrain.
Gunner Jonathan Dion, 5 Régiment d'Artillerie légère du Canada, based in Valcartier, Québec
December 30, 2007
OTTAWA - At approximately 9:10 a.m. local time (in Kandahar), Gunner Jonathan Dion was killed when the Armoured Vehicle he was in struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device. Four other Canadian soldiers were also injured. The incident occurred during a routine patrol, approximately 20 km West of Kandahar city, in the Zharey District. Helicopters were used to evacuate the soldiers to the Multinational Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield. The wounded soldiers are in stable condition and have contacted their families.
Master Corporal Nicolas Raymond Beauchamp, age 28, 5e Ambulance de campagne, based out of Valcartier, Québec.
November 17, 2007
OTTAWA - Two Canadian soldiers, and one Afghan interpreter were killed at approximately 12:00 a.m. Kandahar time on 17 November, 2007 when their Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV III) struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device approximately 40 km West of Kandahar city in the vicinity of Ma’sum Ghar.
Corporal Nathan Hornburg Reserve soldier, King's Own Calgary Regiment, Calgary, Alberta
November 17, 2007
OTTAWA - Two Canadian soldiers, and one Afghan interpreter were killed at approximately 12:00 a.m. Kandahar time on 17 November, 2007 when their Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV III) struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device approximately 40 km West of Kandahar city in the vicinity of Ma’sum Ghar.
Private Michel Jr. Lévesque, age 25, 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment, based out of Valcartier, Québec.
November 17, 2007
OTTAWA - Two Canadian soldiers, and one Afghan interpreter were killed at approximately 12:00 a.m. Kandahar time on 17 November, 2007 when their Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV III) struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device approximately 40 km West of Kandahar city in the vicinity of Ma’sum Ghar.
Major Raymond Ruckpaul, NATO Allied Land Component Command
August 29, 2007
OTTAWA - Major Raymond Ruckpaul, NATO Allied Land Component Command 42, died after being found wounded in his room at the headquarters of the International Security Assistance Force in the Afghan capital.
Master Corporal Christian Duchene, 5e Ambulance de campagne, based out of Valcartier, Quebec
August 22, 2007
OTTAWA - Master Warrant Officer Mario Mercier was killed at approximately 6:19 p.m. Kandahar time today when their Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV III) struck a suspected mine approximately 50 kms West of Kandahar City.
Master Warrant Officer Mario Mercier, 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment, based out of Valcartier, Québec
August 22, 2007
OTTAWA - Master Warrant Officer Mario Mercier was killed at approximately 6:19 p.m. Kandahar time today when their Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV III) struck a suspected mine approximately 50 kms West of Kandahar City.
Private Simon Longtin of the 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment, based out of Valcartier, Québec..
August 19 2007
OTTAWA - Pte Longtin succumbed to his injuries after his LAV III struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) roughly 1:41 am Kandahar time, approximately 20 kms West of Kandahar City. At the time of the incident, the Canadian convoy was returning from a Forward Operating Base following a re-supply mission from Kandahar Airfield.
MCpl Colin Bason, a reservist from The Royal Westminster Regiment based out of New West Minster, B.C.
July 4 2007
OTTAWA - MCpl Colin Bason, a reservist from The Royal Westminster Regiment was killed on 4 July, 2007 along with 5 other CF members and one Afghan interpreter, when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an improvised explosive device, approximately 20km south-west of Kandahar City. RWMR is based out of New West Minster, B.C.
Captain Matthew Johnathan Dawe, 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Edmonton.
July 4 2007
OTTAWA – Captain Matthew Johnathan Dawe, 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed on 4 July, 2007 along with 5 other CF members and one Afghan interpreter, when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an improvised explosive device, approximately 20km south-west of Kandahar City. 3 PPCLI is based out of Edmonton, Alberta.
Cpl Cole Bartsch, 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Edmonton.
July 4 2007
OTTAWA – Cpl Cole Bartsch, 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed on 4 July, 2007 along with 5 other CF members and one Afghan interpreter, when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an improvised explosive device, approximately 20km south-west of Kandahar City. 3 PPCLI is based out of Edmonton, Alberta.
Private Lane Watkins, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI) from CFB Edmonton.
July 4 20047
OTTAWA – Private Lane Watkins was killed on 4 July, 2007 along with 5 other CF members and one Afghan interpreter, when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an improvised explosive device, approximately 20km south-west of Kandahar City. Pte Watkins was a member of 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia"s Canadian Light Infantry, 3 PPCLI, based out of Edmonton.
Cpl Jordan Anderson, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI) from CFB Edmonton.
July 4 2007
OTTAWA – Cpl Jordan Anderson, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed on 4 July, 2007 along with 5 other CF members and one Afghan interpreter, when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an improvised explosive device, approximately 20km south-west of Kandahar City. 3 PPCLI is based out of Edmonton, Alberta.
July 4 2007
OTTAWA – Captain Jefferson Francis of 1 Royal Canadian Horse Artillery(1 RCHA), was killed on 4 July, 2007 along with 5 other CF members and one Afghan interpreter, when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an improvised explosive device, approximately 20km south-west of Kandahar City. 1 RCHA is based out of Shilo, Manitoba.
Sergeant Christos Karigiannis, Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI) from CFB Edmonton.
June 20, 2007
OTTAWA – Sergeant Christos Karigiannis was killed when the vehicle he was traveling in struck an improvised explosive device on the main road, approximately 6 km west of Forward Operating Base Sperwan-Gar. The incident occurred while the soldiers were conducting resupply operations between checkpoints.
Private Vincent Wiebe, Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI) from CFB Edmonton.
June 20, 2007
OTTAWA – Private Vincent Wiebe was killed when the vehicle he was traveling in struck an improvised explosive device on the main road, approximately 6 km west of Forward Operating Base Sperwan-Gar. The incident occurred while the soldiers were conducting resupply operations between checkpoints.
Corporal Stephen Frederick Bouzane, Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI) from CFB Edmonton.
June 20, 2007
OTTAWA – Corporal Stephen Frederick Bouzane was killed when the vehicle he was traveling in struck an improvised explosive device on the main road, approximately 6 km west of Forward Operating Base Sperwan-Gar. The incident occurred while the soldiers were conducting resupply operations between checkpoints.
Trooper Darryl Caswell of The Royal Canadian Dragoons (RCD), 25, based at Petawawa, Ont.
June 11, 2007
OTTAWA – Trooper Darryl Caswell (Bomanville) was killed today when a roadside bomb detonated near the vehicle he was traveling in, about 40 km north of Kandahar City. The incident occurred at approximately 6:25 p.m. Kandahar time (10:05 a.m. EST).
Master Corporal Darrell Jason Priede from Gagetown, NB
May 31, 2007
OTTAWA – Master Corporal Darrell Jason Priede, a military Imagery Technician serving with the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Regional Command (South) Headquarters at Kandahar Airfield, was killed when the helicopter in which he was a passenger went down at approximately 9 p.m. Kandahar time on 30 May, near the town of Kajaki, Helmand Province, about 95 kms northwest of Kandahar City. Master Corporal Priede was a member of the Army News Team from 3 Area Support Group, based at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown, New Brunswick.
Corporal Matthew McCully, (CP/HO/Canadian Armed Forces), 25, from Orangeville, Ontario
May 25, 2007
A Canadian soldier who died in Afghanistan on May 25, 2007 has been identified. Corporal Matthew McCully, 25, from Petawawa, Ontario, was killed in IED attack. He was a signaler and communications specialist working, like 70 other Canadian troops in the Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team, with soldiers of the Afghan National Army. An Afghan interpreter was slightly injured in the blast.
Master-Corporal Anthony Klumpenhouwer, 25, from Listowel, Ontario
April 18, 2007
A Canadian soldier who died in Afghanistan on April 18th has been identified. Master-Corporal Anthony Klumpenhouwer, 25, from Listowel, Ontario, was killed in an accident. The communications technician was working on a tower when the accident occurred. Go to Memorial
Trooper Patrick James Pentland, The Royal Canadian Dragoons, based in Petawawa, Ont
April 11, 2007
On the eve of six killed April 8, 2007 coming home Trooper Patrick James Pentland was killed when his vehicle was bombed by an road side IED during heavy fighting with the Taliban resistance. Three other CF soldiers were, one seriously, as a result of this attack. Go to Memorial
Master Corporal Allan Stewart, The Royal Canadian Dragoons, based in Petawawa, Ont.
April 11, 2007
On the eve of six killed April 8, 2007 coming home Master Corporal Allan Stewart was killed when his vehicle was bombed by an road side IED during heavy fighting with the Taliban resistance. Three other CF soldiers were, one seriously, as a result of this attack. Go to Memorial
Sgt. Donald Lucas, 31, of Burton, N.B. (but raised in St. John's). 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
April 8, 2007
Donald Lucas one of the six Canadian soldiers were killed and two of their comrades were injured today in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 hrs Kandahar time, west of Kandahar City. Go to Memorial
Pte. Kevin Vincent Kennedy, 20, of St. Lawrence, N.L. 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
April 8, 2007
Kevin Kennedy one of six Canadian soldiers were killed and two of their comrades were injured today in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 hrs Kandahar time, west of Kandahar City. Go to Memorial
Cpl. Aaron E. Williams, 23, of Lincoln, N.B. 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
April 8, 2007
Aaron Williams one of Six Canadian soldiers were killed and two of their comrades were injured today in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 hrs Kandahar time, west of Kandahar City. Go to Memorial
Pte. David Robert Greenslade, 20, of Saint John, N.B. 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
April 8, 2007
David Greenslade one of six Canadian soldiers were killed and two of their comrades were injured today in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 hrs Kandahar time, west of Kandahar City. Go to Memorial
Cpl. Brent Poland, 37, of Camlachie, Ont. 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
April 8, 2007
Six Canadian soldiers were killed and two of their comrades were injured today in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 hrs Kandahar time, west of Kandahar City. Go to Memorial
Master Cpl. Christopher Paul Stannix, 24, of Dartmouth, N.S. reservist with the Princess Louise Fusiliers, Halifax
April 8, 2007
Christopher Stannix one of six Canadian soldiers were killed and two of their comrades were injured today in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 hrs Kandahar time, west of Kandahar City. Stannix was promoted in the field to Master Corporal in Afghanistan Go to Memorial
Corporal Kevin Megeney, Reserve -1st Battalion, The Nova Scotia Highlanders
March 6, 2007.
Canadian soldier Corporal Kevin Megeney, Reserve -1st Battalion, The Nova Scotia Highlanders was killed by accidental friendly fire on Tuesday March 7, 2007 The accident took place in the compounds of a non war area in Afghanistan. Go to Memorial
Chief Warrant Officer Robert Girouard, the Regimental Sergeant Major of the 1st Battalion
November 27, 2006.
Canadian soldier Chief Warrant Officer Robert Girouard, the Regimental Sergeant Major of the 1st Battalion was killed by suicide attack on Monday November 27, 2006 A suicide car bomber struck a military convoy near the southern Afghan city of Kandahar Go to Memorial
Cpl. Albert Storm from the 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group
November 27, 2006.
Canadian soldier Cpl. Albert Storm from the 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group was killed by suicide attack on Monday November 27, 2006 A suicide car bomber struck a military convoy near the southern Afghan city of Kandahar.
Go to Memorial
Sgt. Darcy Tedford, 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment
Oct. 14, 2006.
Sgt. Darcy Tedford was killed on October 14 when his unit was ambushed near the new Panjwayi development road, 25km West of Kandahar City.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Pte. Blake Williamson, 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment
Oct. 14, 2006.
Pte Blake Williamson was killed on October 14 when his unit was ambushed near the new Panjwayi development road, 25km West of Kandahar City.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Trooper Mark Wilson, Royal Canadian Dragoons, Petawawa, Ontario
Oct. 7, 2006.
Trp. Mark Wilson was killed on October 7 when the RG-31 he was traveling in was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED) in the Panjwayi area, approximately 25 km west of Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Cpl Robert Mitchell, Royal Canadian Dragoons, Petawawa, Ontario
Oct. 3, 2006.
Cpl Robert Mitchell was killed October 3, 2006 in clashes with the Taliban. Mitchell was one of two Canadian Armed Forces trooper to die during the intense fighting this day in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Sgt Craig Gillam, Royal Canadian Dragoons, Petawawa, Ontario
Oct 3, 2006.
Sgt. Craig Gillam was killed October 3, 2006 in clashes with the Taliban. Gillam was one of two Canadian Armed Forces trooper to die during the intense fighting this day in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Pte. Josh Klukie, 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment
Sep.29, 2006.
Canadian soldier Pte. Josh Klukie was killed by an improvised explosive device, while he was conducting a foot patrol in the Panjwayi district, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Cpl Glen Arnold, 2 Field Ambulance, CFB Petawawa, Ont
Sep.18, 2006.
Cpl Glen Arnold, a member of 2 Field Ambulance, was killed Sept 18, 2006 by a suicide bomber during a foot patrol in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Cpl. Shane Keating, 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Sep.18, 2006.
Corporal Shane Keating of 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed on Sept 18, 2006 by a suicide bomber who attacked his patrol in Afghanistan..Go to Memorial
Cpl. Keith Morley, 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry from Shilo, Man
Sep.18, 2006.
Corporal Keith Morley, of 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed on Sept 18, 2006 by a suicide bomber who attacked his patrol in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Pte. David Byers, 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Sep.18, 2006.
Pte David Byers, a member of 2 PPCLI was killed on Sept 18, 2006 by a suicide bomber who attacked his patrol in Afghanistan.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Warrant Officer Richard Francis Nolan, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, Petawawa
Sep.3, 2006.
Warrant Officer Richard Francis Nolan was killed on Sunday, Sept. 3 fighting against Taliban insurgents west of Kandahar City.Go to Memorial
Pte. Mark Anthony Graham, 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment
Sep. 3, 2006. Pte. Mark Anthony Graham, a member of 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment, based in Petawawa, Ont., was killed on Monday, Sept. 4, about 15 kilometres west of Kandahar City as Canadian troops participating in Operation Medusa were mistakenly strafed by a U.S. warplane.Go to Memorial
Private William Jonathan James Cushley, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
Sep. 3, 2006.
Private William Jonathan James Cushley was killed in Afghanistan on September 3, 2006.Go to Memorial
Sergeant Shane Stachnik, 2 Combat Engineer Regiment
Sep. 3, 2006.
Sergeant Shane Stachnik was killed while fighting Taliban insurgents in an operation whose roots trace back to the New York and Washington terror attacks.Go to Memorial
Warrant Officer Frank Robert Mellish, 1st Batallion, Royal Canadian Regiment
Sep. 3, 2006.
Aug. 22, 2006.
Cpl. David Braun was killed in a suicide attack on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2006 in Kandahar, Afghanistan.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Andrew James Eykelenboom, 1st Field Ambulance, CFB Edmonton
Aug. 11, 2006.
Cpl. Andrew James Eykelenboom, a Canadian Forces medic with One Field Ambulance based in Edmonton, was killed Friday in a suicide attack near Spin Boldak, about 100 kilometres south of Kandahar.
Go to Memorial
Master Cpl. Jeffrey Scott Walsh, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Aug. 9, 2006. 06:51 AM
Master Cpl. Jeffrey Scott Walsh died in Afghanistan Aug 9, His death came just six days after he was re-deployed to the country for his second tour of duty.
Go to Memorial
Master Corporal Raymond Arndt, Loyal Edmonton Regiment
Aug. 5, 2006.
Master Corporal Raymond Arndt of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment died in a vehicle accident south east of Kandahar August 5, 2006.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Christopher Jonathan Reid, 1st Battalion of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Aug. 3, 2006.
Cpl. Christopher Jonathan Reid, of 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, was killed Aug. 3 near Kandahar by a roadside bomb.Go to Memorial
Sgt. Vaughn Ingram, First Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Aug. 3, 2006.
Sgt. Vaughn Ingram of the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry died in Afghanistan on Aug. 3, 2006.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Bryce Jeffrey Keller, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Aug. 3, 2006.
Cpl. Bryce Jeffrey Keller of the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry died in Afghanistan Aug. 3.Go to Memorial
Private Kevin Dallaire, 1st Battalion of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Aug. 3, 2006.
Private Kevin Dallaire of the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was killed August 3, 2006 near the village of Pashmul, southwest of Kandahar City, Afghanistan.Go to Memorial
Corporal Francisco Gomez
July 22, 2006.
Corporal Francisco Gomez of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton was one of two Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan on July 22, 2006.Go to Memorial
Corporal Jason Patrick Warren, Montreal's The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment)
July 22, 2006.
Corporal Jason Patrick Warren of The Black Watch in Montreal was one of two Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan on July 22, 2006.Go to Memorial
Corporal Anthony Joseph Boneca, 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
July 9, 2006.
Corporal Anthony Joseph Boneca was killed during an engagement with the Taliban near Kandahar on the morning of July 9th.Go to Memorial
Capt. Nichola Goddard, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
May. 17, 2006.
Goddard, a 26-year-old officer with the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, was killed while serving as a forward observer, ready to bring down gunfire in support of the infantry. She was Canada’s first female fighting soldier to die by enemy fire.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Randy Payne, CFB/ASU Wainwright Military Police (MP) Platoon in Wainwright
April 22, 2006.
Payne, 32, was killed in Afghanistan April 22 with three other soldiers when a roadside bomb exploded next to their vehicle.Go to Memorial
Corporal Matthew David James Dinning, 2 Mechanized Brigade Group in Petawawa
Apr. 22, 2006.
Dyer was killed in Afghanistan April 22 with three other soldiers when a roadside bomb exploded next to their vehicle.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Lieutenant William Turner, Canadian Armed Forces Reserves
Apr. 22, 2006.
Lieutenant William Turner was killed in Afghanistan April 22 with three other soldiers when a roadside bomb exploded next to their vehicle.
Go to Memorial
Go to Memorial
Bombardier Myles Mansell, Canadian Armed Forces Reserves
Apr. 22, 2006.
Bombardier Myles Mansell was killed in Afghanistan April 22 with three other soldiers when a roadside bomb exploded next to their vehicle.Go to Memorial
Pte. Robert Costall, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, Edmonton
Mar. 28, 2006.
Canadian soldier Robert Costall was killed in a firefight with Taliban insurgents near Kandahar on March 28th.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Paul Davis, 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
Mar. 2, 2006.
Corporal Paul Davis, a Canadian soldier from Bridgewater, N.S., serving with the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI) in Kandahar, was killed March 2 when the light armoured vehicle collided with a civilian taxi and then rolled over after hitting a ditch on the side of the road.Go to Memorial
Master-Corporal Timothy Wilson, Second Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Mar. 4, 2006.
Master-Corporal Timothy Wilson, of Grande Prairie, Alberta, who was seriously injured in the March 2 vehicle accident in Kandahar, Afghanistan, died at a U.S.-run hospital in Landstuhl, Germany early Sunday March 5, 2006.Go to Memorial
Master-Corporal Timothy Wilson, of Grande Prairie, Alberta, who was seriously injured in the March 2 vehicle accident in Kandahar, Afghanistan, died at a U.S.-run hospital in Landstuhl, Germany early Sunday March 5, 2006.Go to Memorial
Canadian diplomat Glyn Berry
Jan. 15, 2006.
Canadian diplomat Glyn Berry, a political director posted with the provincial reconstruction team in Afghanistan, was killed near Kandahar in an apparent suicide bombing on Sunday, January 15Go to Memorial
Private Braun Scott Woodfield
Nov. 24, 2005.
Private Braun Scott Woodfield of Victoria, B.C., shown in a August 26, 2005 photo in Kabul, Afghanistan was killed Thursday, Nov. 24, 2005 and four others injured when their armoured vehicle rolled over in Afghanistan.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Jamie Murphy, 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment
Jan. 27, 2004. 03:44 PM
Cpl. Jamie Brendan Murphy, killed in Kabul Jan. 27 in a suicide attack
Go to Memorial
Sgt. Robert Short, Royal Canadian Regiment, 3rd Battalion
Oct. 2, 2003. 04:53 PM
Sgt. Robert Short, 42, was killed Oct. 2, 2003 when his jeep hit a land mine or buried shell near the capital, Kabul.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Robbie Beerenfenger, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Ottawa
Oct. 2, 2003.
Cpl. Robbie Beerenfenger, 29, was killed Oct. 2, 2003 when his jeep hit a land mine or buried shell near the capital, Kabul.Go to Memorial
Cpl. Ainsworth Dyer, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Light Infantry of Edmonton
Apr. 17, 2002.
Cpl. Ainsworth Dyer of the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Light Infantry of Edmonton is seen in this undated file photo.Go to Memorial
Sgt. Marc Leger, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
Pte. Richard Green, A Company, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Pte. Nathan Lloyd Smith, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia Light Infantry
Apr. 17, 2002. 04:21 PMPte. Nathan Lloyd Smith, died April 17, 2002 under friendly fire.Go to Memorial
AND...
CANADA REMEMBERS SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 - OUR CANADIANS- WORLD TRADE CENTER
Honours
Canadians who died in the
September 11, 2001 Disaster
 Friends Forever |
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We honour the 24 Canadians who died (or are missing and presumed to have
died) in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the U.S.A., according to
families and the official list of Canadian victims as released by the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs:
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Victims of ALL the September 11, 2001 attacks (not including the 19 hijackers):
* New York: 2,750, (those confirmed dead or missing in the Trade Center Towers and aboard American Flight 11 and United Flight 175)
(343 firefighters and 23 police officers included in the above total)
. * Washington: 184 at the Pentagon and American Flight 77
* Pennsylvania: 40 passengers and crew aboard United Flight 93
Total Loss of Life: 2,974 in all 3 attacks.
No Canadians were lost in the Pentagon attack, or in the Pennsylvania crash.
Putting a brief story to each of the Canadian victims' names will hopefully serve as an inspiration to their families, friends and all Canadians. This page is a tribute to these Canadian men and women.
IN MEMORIAM
| Michael Arczynski | The 45-year-old was a senior vice-president of Aon Corp.'s Manhattan office. He was a physically active man who moved to New York after nine years in London. He was a well traveled man who said that he had three homes- Montreal, London and Australia. He and his wife Lori had three children. Lori is expecting their fourth in February. Arczynski also leaves three daughters from his first marriage. |
| Garnet (Ace) Bailey | 53 years old, director of pro scouting for the L.A. Kings, a native of Lloydminster, Sask. was aboard United Airlines Flight 175 when it crashed into the World Trade Center. He was a professional hockey player. He played for many teams including the Edmonton Oilers, where he played with Wayne Gretzky. He was nicknamed "Ace" for his skills on the ice. He was starting his 32nd season as a player or scout for the National Hockey League. He is survived by a 22 year old son and his wife Kathy. |
| David Barkway | The 34-year-old executive with BMO Nesbitt Burns in Toronto was visiting a client atop the World Trade Center's north tower when the first plane hit. He sent an electronic message to his Toronto colleagues, saying he was in trouble. Barkway was visiting New York with his pregnant wife, Cindy, for a three-day business trip. The couple has a two-year-old child. He was on the 105th floor when the tragedy took place and tried to contact his office in Toronto for help. |
| Ken Basnicki | The 47-year-old father of two was in the north tower where he worked. The Toronto native was last heard from at 8:55 a.m. in a cellphone call to his mother from an office on the 106th floor. "He was notifying his mother that the place was full of smoke and he didn't think he'd find a way out," said his brother-in-law Dan Young of Ennismore, Ont. Basnicki was on his first business trip to New York. He was a physically-fit outgoing, fun-loving high-achiever who rode a Harley Davidson. |
| Joseph Collison | Joseph Collison was born in Toronto in 1951 and moved to New York City more than 10 years ago. He was on he 102nd floor of the north tower, where he worked in the mail room of Kidder, Peabody & Co., said his sister-in-law, Janet Collison. "Joe was so caring," she said from Mississauga, where he was buried next to his parents. "Joe truly was a brother, someone who always stood beside you." Collison, who was not married, was hoping to adopt a young boy in New York that he cared for, said Janet. "Anyone who knew Joe said he was always there for you." |
| Cynthia Connolly | Age: 40. She worked at Aon Corp. She was transferred from the Montreal office to New York in 1999. She loved pets. She had a Airedale-German-Shepherd and a pet cat. She was married to Donald Poissant, whom she wed in Montreal, a year before she left for the US. |
| Arron Dack | The 39-year-old father of two was attending a conference in the north tower of the World Trade Center when the first plane hit. He called his office just after the impact to say he was alive. Two minutes later, at 8:47, he called his wife Abigail. He was a senior executive with Encompys. Dack was born in England, and grew up in Toronto. He is survived by his wife and two children, Olivia and Carter. |
| Michael Egan | Age: 51. Worked at Aon Corp. He worked on the 105th floor and had his older sister visiting him for a couple of weeks. Some colleagues of his said that his sister, who also died in the terrorist attack, visited his office so she could gaze over the city from his office. |
| Christine Egan | The 55-year-old Health Canada nurse epidemiologist from Winnipeg was visiting her younger brother's upper-floor office in the second tower of the World Trade Center. She had come to New York to spend time with him, her sister-in-law and her two teenaged nephews. She was last spotted on the 105th floor, apparently to meet and old college friend. |
| Albert William Elmarry | The 30-year-old moved from Toronto to the United States in 1999 to work in computer support for Cantor Fitzgerald. He met his wife, Irenie, on a visit to his native Egypt. She is expecting their first child at the end of March. He had worked for IBM Canada, when in Toronto. He was on the 103rd floor when the terrorists attacked. |
| Meredith Ewart and Peter Feidelberg |
Ages 29 and 34 respectively. The Montreal couple worked in offices on the World Trade Center's top floors. They worked as consultants for an insurance firm, Aon International. They both got their jobs at Aon International at the same time. They had been married for 18 months. |
| Alexander Filipov | Age: 70. Born in Regina and lived in Concord, Mass. Was on American Airlines Flight 11 when it hit the World Trade Center. Filipov, an electrical engineer, grew up in Windsor and graduated from Queen's University in Kingston, Ont. He was hoping to get home on time for his 44th anniversary in Massachusetts. His wife Loretta felt that he lived a well-rounded life, that included golfing, skiing, and playing music. He even tried bungee jumping at 60. He is survived by three sons, Allan, David and Jeffrey. |
| Ralph Gerhardt | The 34-year-old vice-president with Cantor Fitzgerald, a bond trading firm, called his parents in Toronto just after the first plane hit the north tower. He tried to console his parents during the call telling them not to worry. He also informed them that he was going to find his girlfriend, who worked in the floor below. He has not been heard from since. |
| Stuart Lee | He had returned only a day before the attacks from his Korean homeland where he had taken his wife, Lynn Udbjorg, to show off his roots. He was on the 103rd floor of 1 World Trade Center, when the tragedy took place. Lee, who would have turned 31 on Wednesday, was vice-president of integrated services for Datasynapse. He spent the last hour of his life e-mailing his company, trying to figure how to get out of the building. |
| Mark Ludvigsen | Age: 32. Worked at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods. He left his native New Brunswick for US, with his parents, when he was seven. He worked on the 89th floor of the south tower of the World Trade Center. He proposed to his wife on a surprise trip to Ireland. He called his parents a few minutes after the attack on the North Tower to console them that he was alright. He told them that they had nothing to worry about since he was on the other wing. He has not been heard from since. |
| Bernard Mascarenhas | 54 years old, of Newmarket, Ont., worked for Marsh Inc., which had offices at the World Trade Center. He was the chief information officer for the insurance brokerage firm. He was in New York on a five day visit to the technology department of his parent company. Marsh had 1,900 employees in the trade centers of which 295 were killed. He is survived by his wife, Raynette, and a son and daughter, Jaclyn and Sven. |
| Colin McArthur | Age: 52. Worked as a deputy managing director at Aon Corp. He immigrated to Canada in 1977. He is originally from Glasgow. He married his wife, who also works at Aon Corp., after moving to Montreal. He has been working at the company for over 15 years. |
| Michel Pelletier | The 36-year-old commodities broker for TradeSpark, a division of trading firm Cantor Fitzgerald, was on the 105th floor of 1 World Trade Center. He called his wife, Sophie, and calmly told her he was trapped in the building and that he loved her. She was dropping their two-year-old daughter at her first day of school. He is survived by a three-month-old son and their two-year-old daughter. |
| Donald Robson | 52, raised in Toronto, was a partner and bond broker for Cantor Fitzgerald on the 103rd floor of the north tower of the World Trade Center. He had spent the last two decades in New York. He was also present in the 1993 tower bombing, according to his wife. He is survived by two sons, Geoff and Scott. |
| Ruffino (Roy) Santos | Age: 37. Worked at Guy Carpenter as a computer consultant. He was leaving the company to work for Accenture a week later. He is a native of Manila, who moved to British Columbia in the 1980's. He later moved to New York, five years ago. |
| Vladimir Tomasevic | 36, of Toronto, vice-president of software development for Optus e-biz solutions. Was attending conference on 106th floor of World Trade Center's north tower. Originally from Yugoslavia, he immigrated to Canada in 1994. "He was my best friend and a part of him will always be with me" commented his wife to Maclean's magazine. |
| Chantal Vincelli | Age: 38. She was a marketing assistant for Data Synapse Inc. Her biggest dream in life was to be a New Yorker. "She loved the hustle and bustle, the atmosphere, the go-getters", said her brother. She has been working in New York for five years. On the day of the attacks, Vincelli was setting up a kiosk at a trade show. |
| Deborah Lynn Williams | Age: 35. Williams, whose maiden name was Robinson, worked for the global insurer, Aon Corp., for 15 years. She and her husband, Darren, moved to Hoboken, N.J., after being transferred to New York City by their employer. Williams, a Montreal native, gave birth to their only child six months after settling in Hoboken. |
| The
list was obtained from Foreign Affairs by the Toronto Star Some Bio info. also from the CBC Website | |
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| Frank Joseph Doyle | Foreign Affairs also listed a "25th victim" because of his deep Canadian roots. Thirty-nine-year-old Frank Joseph Doyle was married to Kimmie Chedel of St. Sauveur, Que. He also leaves two children. All of his relatives live in the Ottawa Valley. Doyle, an executive vice-president of Keefe Bruyette and Woods, had a home in Ste. Adele, Que. |
| LeRoy Holmer | Canadian Connection: LeRoy Homer, 36, was the co-pilot of United Airlines Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania after being taken over by hijackers. Homer was an American citizen, but his wife Melodie Thorpe was Canadian, having grown up in Hamilton, Ont. Family say Homer always knew he wanted to be a pilot. The couple, who lived in Marlton, N.J., have a young daughter. Homer previously served with the US air force in Desert Shield, Desert Storm and in Somolia. |
| Jane Beatty | Canadian Connection: Jane Beatty, age: 53, Worked at Marsh & McLennan Cos. Inc. She was originally from Britain and lived in Ontario for 20 years before moving to the United states. She was on the 96th floor of the North tower, when the terrorists attacked. She had survived five years with breast cancer. She celebrated the occasion just three weeks before her death. She called her husband, Bob, at 8:45, a couple of minutes before the terrorist attack. |
Memorial Plaques
Canada's 9/11 victims were remembered as the first plaque honouring Canadian victims of September 11th was unveiled at an Ottawa's Beechwood Cemetery on January 14, 2002. The plaque bears the names of 24 Canadian victims, as well as two others who were married to Canadians. Gov. Gen. Adrienne Clarkson could not attend the service due to another engagement, but her secretary Barbara Uteck delivered a message on her behalf. Another plaque was dedicated to the Canadian 9/11 victims on March 18, 2003. It was unveiled in a meditation room in the East Block of Parliament Hill in Ottawa. It will remain on display there as a permanent memorial. Five family members, representing three victims of the tragedy, attended the ceremony. They were joined by deputy Commons Speaker Bob Kilger, Canadian Alliance Leader Stephen Harper, religious representatives and several MPs, including Ontario Liberal Dan McTeague who spearheaded the idea of honouring the victims. If you are aware of other plaques or memorials to the Canadian victims, please let us know via email
What Canada Did On 9/11 and After
| Crises often tend to bring out the best in people. The response in Canada to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 is a case in point. 200 or so aircraft, many of which were of U.S. registry, were heading for the continental U.S. All were diverted to alternate airports in Eastern Canada. Some were too heavy to land and had to dump fuel, before being routed to the nearest available airport. Simultaneously, over the North Pacific, commercial carriers en route from Asia to North America were being diverted to airports in Western Canada, primarily Vancouver. NAV CANADA faced an enormous task of draining the skies under Canadian control, handling 239 diverted aircraft from overseas as well as those destined for the U.S. and Canada. All landed safely in Canada without incident. Of these, 38 went to Gander, 1 to Deer Lake, 21 to St. John’s, 8 to Stephenville, 7 to Goose Bay, 47 to Halifax, 10 to Moncton, 10 to Mirabel, 7 to Dorval, 14 to Toronto, 4 to Hamilton, 15 to Winnipeg, 6 to Edmonton, 13 to Calgary, 1 to Yellowknife, 3 to Whitehorse and 34 to Vancouver. Gander received 6,600 diverted passengers; Vancouver received about 8,500. The last aircraft to land was from the Pacific. By about 6:00 PM EDT, all planes had landed safely. Accommodating more than 33,000 passengers and aircrew was a huge challenge for the Canadian communities, who welcomed the large number of passengers and accommodated them in their homes and public facilities. Many lasting friendship were developed during the days that these thousands of stranded passengers were welcomed into Canadaian homes. By September 16th all diverted planes had departed with their passengers for their intended destinations. |
CLIMB HIGHER
(A tribute to New York City Firefighters)
"Keep on Climbing", says the Captain, "Up through the smoke and
smell."
"Keep on climbing", says the Captain, "I think I heard somebody yell!"
"Keep on climbing", says the Captain, "Alive or dead, not ours to tell."
"Keep on climbing", says the Captain, "I think I heard somebody yell!"
"Keep on climbing", says the Captain, "Alive or dead, not ours to tell."
"Keep on climbing", calls the Captain, "Forget about your
pain!"
Keep on climbing ", shouts the Captain, "We have a few more floors to gain."
"Keep on climbing", yells the Captain, "We will bring them down again!"
Keep on climbing ", shouts the Captain, "We have a few more floors to gain."
"Keep on climbing", yells the Captain, "We will bring them down again!"
"Keep on climbing", cries the Captain, "If I can, so can
you!"
"Keep on climbing", orders the Captain, "Right now I need your best from you!"
"Keep on climbing", orders the Captain, "Right now I need your best from you!"
"Keep on climbing", screams the Captain, "Forget about those
sounds!"
"It's just some girders twisting and some concrete falling down."
"It's just some girders twisting and some concrete falling down."
"Keep on climbing", whispers the Captain, "Climb right up to
that light!"
"Right up to that sunshine, No smoke to smell, no fire to fight!"
"Right up to that sunshine, No smoke to smell, no fire to fight!"
"Keep on climbing", sings the Captain, "That Angel's hand will
lead the way!"
"Rest boys", sighs the Captain, "You did your job, today!"
"Rest boys", sighs the Captain, "You did your job, today!"
"Keep on climbing", prays Our Captain, "Eyes raised, headed for
the top."
"And when you're tired, and feel like quiting,
Remember them, they didn't stop!"
"And when you're tired, and feel like quiting,
Remember them, they didn't stop!"
By Jim McGregor, Fire Chief
Langley City
Fire-Rescue Service
Langley British Columbia
September, 2001
September, 2001
For an excellent site dedicated to ALL those who lost their lives on
September 11th, visit:WTC Memorial Site
This page is part of Knight's Canadian
Info CollectionPlease visit our other pages Site © by K.C.I.C. - A. Knight (Webmaster)
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