South African National Defence Force (SANDF)- on verge of collapse- experts!

(South African Catholic)

Note by Marc Aupiais

According to the IOL (Independent Newspapers) news group- of South Africa- multiple experts on military matters- have warned that South Africa could handle only the most "minor" of Defence crisis.

Jane's Defence Weekly Southern Africa correspondent Helmoed-Romer Heitman, Henri Boshoff of the Institute of Security Studies in Pretoria, retired Brigadier-General George Kruys of the University of Pretoria, and Professor Renfrew Christie, dean of research at the University of the Western Cape have all raised serious concerns about the state of the South African Army.

It has been warned that if piracy moves south- that our navy is not capable of patrolling the Mozambique Channel to protect commercial shipping, that should Zimbabwe collapse- our army would not be capable of intervening, that taking the police off border patrol would be deadly- and that if events turn sour in Darfur- that it would be hard to evacuate our troops.

South African troops situated throughout Africa- have been credited with a deep stabilising influence- but soldiers are ageing, equipment is reportedly unserviceable, and funding is scarce- in comparison to the mammoth tasks demanded of South African soldiers in multiple giant frontiers throughout some of the most dangerous hot spots on the African Continent.

Defence Minister: Lindiwe Sisulu (appointed by the ANC [African National Congress]- ruling party) has expressed confidence in the readiness of the South African National Defence Force, according to IOL.

The Official Opposition of the Republic of South Africa, the DA (Democratic Alliance), disagrees with the Defence Minister. Their shadow Minister of Defence: Mr David Maynier claims that South Africa must take action least it experience: "soldiers without vehicles, ships without sailors, planes without pilots, and military hospitals without doctors".

A study a while back warned that a smaller deployment of South African troops Up North on the continent- could lead to dire consequences and destabilization. South African troops which were deployed in Burundi are credited with the stabilisation of the country, as South African diplomacy throughout the continent has been credited with ending wars.

The nay sayers seem to believe that either the army should be funded in a manner they would see as adequate: for its mammoth tasks- or that it should be used in what they would see as: more economically wise matters, or in a more economic manner.

C.F.

IOL (Secular; Independent; South African) 02 / 08 | August / 2009
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?&set_id=1&click_id=79&art_id=vn20090802062434798C127223

Social Justice South Africa: CAR; North Africa: Central African Republic sends troops to Congo Border

(Social Justice South Africaa; c.f. c.f. News 24 (Secular; South African; Independent) 15 / 01 / 2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

"Central African Republic", is sending troops to their border, as a "buffer", against LRA ("Lord's Resistance Army") rebels, believed to be operating out of the DRC (Congo). The LRA, has been accused of recent atrocities in Southern Sudan, and in other countries. Defence Minister Jean Francis Bozize, of the "Central African republic" (CAR), claimed that troops would be sent to the border. They will be in High Mbomou Province, which borders on Sudan, which has accused the LRA of attacks, High Mbomou Province also, importantly borders on the DRC, where the rebels are believed, by some important sources: to base themselves.

The LRA, have been implicated in human rights abuses, and a recent massacre in a Catholic church. The LRA, are lead by a Mr. Joseph Kony, who is wanted in the International Criminal Court (ICC), that is: in the Hague: for war crimes. Accusations against the LRA, include those by Catholic Ethos Umbrella Humanitarian Group: Caritas internationalis.

Sri Lanka; Asia: Catholic Bishop calls Army to protect civilians: while fighting tigers: after collateral damage inflicted

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f UCAN NEWS (Asian; Independent; Catholic) 08 / Jan / 2009 )

Article by Marc Aupiais

As the Sri lankan army advances against the Tamil Tiger (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)) separatists, in Sri Lanka: the Catholic Bishop in the area: has called on the Sri Lankan army to avoid civilian casualties. Several have already been casualty to aerial bombing, which the bishop has called the Army to hault when dealing with highly populated areas; or more directly: he has said to save civilians from mortar, and aerial bombardment: possibly allowing for strategic strikes: although he does not mention these.

The Bishop of Jaffna, has said that he believes the army has hit civilian targets with aerial bombings, and is calling for them to save civilians from Mortar, and aerial bombardment.

The Sri Lankan army will now need to pursue the rebels in a highly populated area, if they desire immediate victory. Much like the situation in the Gaza Strip, this one demands caution on the part of a largely: morally/doctrinally speaking, somewhat: justified army: so as not to take unjustified actions, or do possibly immoral damage to innocent bystanders.

The Bishop's: Bishop Thomas Savundaranayagam's appeal to: President Mahinda Rajapaksa; of Sri lanka: does not seem to be a request that they do not pursue the Tigers, but that they be cautious about how they go about routing them out: so as to minimize civilian: non-combatant: losses.

Gaza Strip Situation, Middle East: Lebanon Factor: Hezbolla may have entered the fray: at least 3 missiles, maybe five: launched against Northern Isra

(Social Justice South Africa; Scripturelink Voters guide; C.f. BBC World News (Secular; British; Government) 08 / Jan / 2009; CWNews (Catholic; American; Independent) 07 / Jan / 2009; CWNews (Catholic; American; Independent) 07/01/2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

BBC World News is reporting that the Israeli and Lebanese authorities confirm the launching of three missiles from southern Lebanon, into Northern Israel: creating a situation: where Israel is now being attacked from both sides: complicating the war: as Egypt, and France, are still attempting a ceasefire between Hamas, and Israel. While three are confirmed, some reports, are said to put it at five, according to the BBC.

The attacks (BBC World News (Secular; British; Government) 08 / Jan / 2009) wounded two Israelis, and shell-shocked others. They follow a rise in anti-Israeli rhetoric, by Hezbolla, and 60 Israeli air-strikes on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, as well as renewed Israeli interest in a ceasefire.

The Previous war between Israel, and Hezbolla: happened on the back of a conflict between Israel, and Hamas: according to BBC World News. Hezbolla, recently became a major threat to Lebanon again, threatening civil war, over objections to spy networks they had amassed.

Hezbolla, like Hamas: is an obstacle to democracy: in the country in which they are based. Both have as a final goal: the annihilation of Israel, and the destruction of her people. Both: have gained what they have: via brute force, and propaganda. Neither group: is a state: both are known terrorist groupings: whose methods almost always involve the actions of terror tactics, and brute force, or calls for violence, and or propaganda: or political maneuvering, or the like.

Meanwhile the president of Indonesia (according to CWNews (Catholic; American; Independent) 07 / Jan / 2009), has called the Israel-Hamas conflict: not religious, but political: a move by a largely (about 88%) Muslim nation, which is a statement, and move of aid, or rather: benefit, and advantage: to Israel: who have been made to face protests by Muslims, which have dotted, or cross-hashed across many nations within the the Global Scene: Canadian versions of such protests, were met by pro-Israeli Protests, meaning that those protesting, represented the two different sides independently: however: protests in the Islamic world have largely been anti-Israeli. This move by Indonesia, which is another move by an Islamic nation: saying that the conflict is political: also is of aid to any peace process, as Israel, whatever their methods, are attempting to protect their sovereignty, something which is endangered by protests and condemnation: which: if aimed only at Israel: further complicate the entire situation.

A new, tougher stance; by Israel's previously more moderate government: may have been shown recently: whether or not the Lebanon missiles were launched by Hamas, or Hamas sympathizers, or by Hezbolla, seems unclear. Further attacks, by terrorists, on the sovereignty of Israel: could result in an even worse situation, within the region as a whole. The humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip is said to be severe: either caused by efforts, at propaganda: for the world: by Hamas, or by bombings, lack of water, and supplies, and the situation around deaths, and bombings: or by both.

Israel, recently accepted a peace agreement, which Hamas rejected: because Hamas desired open borders. However, since this attack, Hamas has become increasingly open to negotiations: something not apparent in a long time. Condemnations of Israel, out of highly partisan, and politically motivated: pro-Hamas nations, and notably out of South Africa: have done nothing to improve the situation much, rather: diplomacy: is credited with every advance gained for the people of Palestine: with Israel claiming: they will listen to their friends: a hinting that nations which distort the situation as purely their fault: will not be heard.

A reported: high level "Vatican" delegation to the Area, according to Catholic World News: is a myth: the only visit currently, by high level church representation, was already scheduled: and is thought not to be anything in addition. In fact, they say: this is an annual trip (CWNews (Catholic; American; Independent) 07/01/2009), and nothing more.

Pope Benedict XVI: extremely Worried About Gaza Conflict: doing what can be done to set up peace

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. IHT (Article quoted is AP; which like IHT; is secular; and independent) 06/01/2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

According to the Associated Press: Benedict XVI: is extremely worried about the Gaza conflict, and is encouraging what he can: to bring about peace: between the State of Israel, and Terrorist occupiers of Gaza: Hamas. Benedict XVI: wants the situation to return to negotiations: believing the conflict; which re-emerged, with hundreds of terror attacks by Hamas against Israel; and the Israeli response at a later date: as rockets continue to be launched against Israel, and Israel has launched air, then ground strikes: to be maintained by hatred.

At least 3 Israeli civilians have been killed, we previously reported 4 were killed, but this was either an assumption, or contradicts a dispatch we heard in Sky news. 3 Israeli combatants have also died in friendly fire, according to a report we heard, another two, according to Sky news: are casualties.

A Palestinian, who gave a report for BBC world news, approached a man: dressed like a doctor: saying "you are foreign", and asking his opinion, the man said that most casualties were civilians. Until international journalists are let in, including BBC's top brass: no clear, reliable picture of circumstances can begin to emerge.

Hamas had not been part of recent negotiations: and had seized the Gaza strip, by military might, from the Palestinian "Authority", and recently began launching terrorist attacks at Israeli civilians. Israel has been accused of a disproportionate response. Hamas has also: purposely operated from areas with large populations... and has aimed most attacks: at Israeli civilians: recently hitting a childcare facility.

Israel is letting aid into the Gaza Strip, but faces accusations that it is not enough, or not reaching sites. Israel claims that it is for their safety, that they are keeping international Journalists away. In Iraq, these were often kidnapped, and held hostage, and killed, however: it is not clear that this is the reason: that these are being kept out.

Pope Benedict XVI: believes that both parties need to return to talks: unlike South Africa: who has notably taken the side of the Terrorist Grouping Hamas: or seems to have: from media reports. South Africa is known for their friendships with tyrants, dictators, and terrorist factions. In the UN security council, it had increasingly blocked certain efforts against certain groupings, and also attempts such in the General Assembly of the United Nations. It has also been accused of keeping Robert Mugabe in Power, in neighboring Zimbabwe. South Africa is in the control, of the Communist affiliated ANC, itself: once listed as a terrorist group: in American systems.

Sri Lanka: Tigers pushed further back; take town's population hostage

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Reuters 04/01/2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Tamil Tigers, have again been pushed back, after a recent attack, which took their capital, including their "Banking sector"; government troops: have taken another important area. The town, recently taken: had almost no non-combatants: as these are suspected to have been taken by the terrorist grouping: in order to be human shields. The Tigers broke a peace treaty recently, giving the Sri Lankan government the political support: to actually pursue the annihilation of the rebels:

Previous conflict had aimed at gaining a foothold to get the Tigers to the negotiating table, but recent assaults by the Government of Sri Lanka: since the Tigers broke a peace treaty: have resulted in forcing withdrawal after withdrawal by the Tigers: who recently were reported as kidnapping 16 boys from a Catholic Orphanage: by gunpoint: in order to serve some purpose for their war effort.

The Tigers, have not recently made any official commentary, on the situation apparent, since their defeats.

It is expected by many: that this recent outbreak of war: will finally wipe out the decades long Tiger rebellion.

Gaza Strip, Palestine, Middle East: Israeli Ground offensive has begun

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. BBC World News (Secular; Government; British) 04 / Jan / 2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Israeli troops have begun to clash with forces of the Terrorist group Hamas: in the start of a ground offensive to take areas. One always feels sad at the beginning of such a conflict: while it was unpreventable: world leaders did not listen to Israel, and so her people caused her politicians to do something radical: still, this is horrid and sad: perhaps now the world will learn, and treat this situation as what it is: another issue, just like those in Africa, or Bosnia: an issue, where two parties are at war. America is continuing to support the Israeli offensive. Some say that they are using the holiday period to ensure their success.

Rockets continue to be launched into Israel, and like a group of angry bees, protecting the bee hive, or a mother bear, sheltering her children: Israel's wrath has been shown.

The Israeli presidency: claims it has no intent to crush Hamas, but only to stop the terrorist attacks. If they are not lying: then it is very likely that if a long-term peace-fire can be brokered: they will immediately withdraw.

As to the morality of this offensive, while I am so deeply weakened within: I do not take a view: except that whatever route is best for longterm peace: must be taken: and partisan politics involving the two nations must end: press must report exactly what is occurring, at least, as best they can.

Many civilians deaths in this conflict: result from the way in which Hamas has fortified themselves in highly populated areas, of a highly populated region. Reports from civilians inside contradict, according to religious views and nationality: some Catholics welcome the attacks, but one "Palestinian American" interviewed, seemed to contradict the viewpoint of the Catholics on the ground. The only thing that can be agreed: is that peace needs to found again, and a longterm peace. The offensive against Israel, which started this entire issue: has not haulted once, despite the heavy backlash, nor have terrorist threats. Granted, Israel's response is very large, and has been somewhat ineffective, in stopping attacks: still, Hamas has shown their true colours in this war. Again, we call for this to go to the International Criminal Court, where justice can be found for both groups.

For all the saddening details, we are forwarding to BBC World News, whom we have no affiliation with:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7810270.stm

One of, if not the most: trustworthy major secular news source on the planet.

Eyes are on Canadian Military and Cdn Soldier charged with Second Degree Murder

Capt. Robert Semrau, a Canadian soldier and mentor, charged with murder with the intent to kill on Oct. 19 is not all Canadians are questioning. Why weren't the Canadian public made aware of this investigation and what was the delay? Not only is this serious accusation against this soldier shocking its equally shocking why it took 2 months to surface.

http://www.thestar.com/article/561214

Saturday Star, Toronto, Ontario, Canada 01/03/09

Pope Benedict XVI: Gaza situation deeper than shallow solutions

(Social Justice South Africa; News 24 (South African; Secular) 01/01/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Pope Benedict XVI: has condemned what he sees as an arms race: saying that the majority people in the troubled middle-eastern scene: between Israel, and Hamas: actually desire peace. Like any other sensible source: he has not taken sides: but has called for the International Community to do something real: to help the two sides abandon a "dead-end road": blaming distrust, and hatred for the violence.

While Israel: has strong support for their offensive: having claimed about 400 lives, and dozens of civilian casualties: this support comes due to constant barrages of Israeli territory: aimed at civilians, by the Hamas Terrorist grouping: in charge of Gaza. Political authorities in Israel: have been forced into an offensive: by the perceived lacks in security, by the citizens of their country.

So far, most International intervention has been biased in one side or the other, or has aimed at temporary solutions: which do not look at any real causes of the issues in the nation.

Instead of focusing on justice, peace, development: and calling to account crimes: it has been focused on tit for tat negotiations: and has done nothing to halt the hate-speech of terrorist grouping: Hamas: nor has it done anything real to secure the safety of Israeli citizens: instead: adults are forced into peace agreements: as though they were children: real problems are trivialized: and most of the "help" given: is a politically shaded: as the "Help" South Africa continues to give to what only those connected with or biased towards: it still call: "Zimbabwe".

As with the case of Northern Ireland, and in the case of South Africa: any real peace: can only follow justice: where all war-crimes on both sides are accounted for: and the International Community ensures that these go to the Hague.

Political "demigods", can no longer look to their own interests, nor should they be allowed to: the world needs to use its might in this situation: rather than taking sides: or sensationalizing, or justifying terrorism: which never has a justification: all guilty: no matter how powerful: of breaking international law without extenuating circumstances: must be made to book; there is no extenuating circumstances of course: for terrorism.

Just as with gang violence: the answer, and only answer: is the punishment, and I do not refer to "collective punishment": but rather: international intervention, and punishment of those specific people; who are guilty of escalating unjust violence.

Gaza Strip, Palestine: Israeli attack a "Christmas Present": citizen of Gaza strip

(Scripturelink Voters guide; c.f. Catholic News Service (independent; professional; don't always give full picture) 31/12/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Israel's attack, so near to Christmas: is considered as a Christmas present, by one person interviewed in Gaza: who said that it was his opinion, that most people there hate Hamas, but are to scared of them to voice it. No name for this source was given.

Israel has been in contact with foreigners in the West Bank, extending short periods of permission to again exit the area. Another source said that they didn't talk about politics, rather: only about their immediate situation.

It seems likely that the source of all this information is Catholic people there. The accuracy of it is questionable, as to Hamas being despised, as there is only one source for this: someone who himself seems to dislike a group which he considers as abusive towards Catholics and Muslims in the area.

Condemnation of Israel, by lay Catholics in the Gaza strip, however: is something I personally have not seen since the start of the conflict. It seems, many in Gaza, just like many in Israel: are exhausted of the politically motivated impasse. Hamas continues defiance, and has at our last check: continued terrorist attacks on Israeli civilians: despite heavy losses. Heavy civilian losses, can be ascribed to a sort of human shield method used by the terrorist group: Hamas: which purposely places installations, and launches rockets also: intentionally: in and from heavily populated civilian areas.

As to whether or not this advance is justified: many sources would prefer a peaceful solution, at least: those outside of the Gaza strip, but other than supporters of Hamas: this invasion, seems viewed as relief from terror by some.

In the end, condemnations from Catholic sources fear greater hatred being caused by these battles: how justified this war is: will only be determined, after fighting has stopped. The Israeli government has launched this counterstrike: after hundreds of missiles were launched at Israeli civilians: an embarrassment: to a government; which has risked looking too friendly to Palestine.

The war itself: is a result of the failure of the International Community: in the peace efforts: embarrassing an Israeli government which actually co-operated with such: to the extent of being looked down on by Israeli people. A government, which seems to be fighting its war: for political survival: seen as having been too soft in securing Israel: now, spurred on by the opposition: the Israeli government is making a gesture to its people: a gesture, which has cost hundreds of lives: and which would not have been made, in the case: that this government had not been made to look foolish.

Israel: has decided to lift the corpse from its doorway: for years, it has been condemned for Palestine: often wrongly; it certainly is not implementing Apartheid: it is Palestine, which has taken a territory from Israel, and these are two separate states. The result of consistent calls for her destruction: Israel, has decided to finally rid the world of one of the causes of these.

This recent war, proves: not a failure in Israel, but in the International Community: simply continuing to Condemn Israel, while ignoring hundreds of Missiles launched at it: is a mistake; isolating Israel: despite the fact, their enemies: openly advocate terrorism: has only caused the Jewish nation to go it alone. As long as the International Community condemns violence: it is good publicity: but I have yet to see a real solution given: peace needs hope, and justice: but because Hamas could not survive it: the International Community has not once suggested an international Tribunal: to try members of both sides, and force through peace.

The words of the Israeli people: ignored by the world, as they daily face terror attacks; and endless threats: are so much more poignant in the eyes of their politicians: than a thousand protests, and condemnations. Until Israel is given the voice it deserves: it will continue to insure its safety in the only sure way it knows.

The civilian losses in Palestine are huge: but it needs to be noted: that these losses were intended by Hamas: should there be an attack: they have always used civilian deaths as a banner: and have not withdrawn from heavily populated ares.

This said, while I think there must be a better, peaceful answer to this: as long as the International Community continues to prevent Israel from having this option: by allowing her people to call for blood: out of constant fear: we will not see a solution. Any clever politics mean nothing: when Israel's people: are those forcing this war through: the International Community needs to look sincerely into this situation: rather than simply advocating peace: without giving a way to create it.

Both Israeli, and Palestinian needs: need to be put on the table: and those who are obstacles: unjust obstacles: not perceived ones: to a lasting peace: need to be taken down by the United Nations. Clearly, as seen in their strikes, and pointless fighting: Hamas: has it in their best interests politically: to insure fighting continues, and as long as terrorist attacks continue to hit Israel: any Israeli politician, also has it in their best interests to continue fighting: both sides also only lose face in hearing international voices.

Until the political necessity is reversed on both sides: there is no point in simply condemning fighting: because neither side will edge towards peace: until they think it is of benefit to their personal political interests.

Gulf of Aden, Somalia, Africa: Theft of ships causing diversion of shipping from Suez to Cape of Good hope, by some big shipping groups

(Social Justice South Africa ; c.f. Reuters (Secular) 18/11/08; Reuters (Secular) 17/11/08; Associated Press 18/11/08; Sky News Channel (Secular) 19/11/08; Other Sources (Largely Secular) ??/??/??)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Reuters( 17/11/08; 18/11/08;) , the London based news Firm, is reporting the effect of the consistent hijacking of ships by pirates in Somalia- currently in a civil war. Unlike other News Services- they have said that there is no major move to the cape route (18/11/08). Ships, however, many carrying "dry cargo" or electronic equipment are being diverted from the quicker route of the Suez Canal, via the Gulf of Aden, having had, or noted of issues with Somalian Pirates: taking rather: the long route from before the Canal was created- around the Cape of Good Hope.

The Cape of Good Hope is located in Cape Town, in the Western Cape Province of the Republic of South Africa. Insurance costs of taking Suez are estimated by a source in shipping: quoted by above mentioned Reuters:  to be one probable reason, however major Middle Eastern Oil producing nations have not yet hinted at any diversion, despite the recent hijacking of a Middle Eastern oil carrier. A reason sited by a shipping company withdrawing: is the risk faced, not by companies, but by crews of ships. There is also disappointment in the lack of support from the authorities and governments: in combating the piracy: whether or not this disappointment is warranted will be seen in coming weeks.

The civil war in Somalia between their Warlord president and Islamic rebels, has resulted in the government controlling less than half of Somalia's territory, with Rebels now controlling what seems an ever-growing amount of ground. When two Catholic religious were captured as hostages in a raid, by terrorists in nearby northern Kenya, and brought back to Kenya's Neighboring Somalia, the Somalian Government, appears to have had to ask Kenyan help to try resolve the issue.

Reuters, which reported firstly on the diverting of shipping, appears to have done a more extensive analysis: via an interview of a shipping company not quoted as pulling out: one day later, which saw the issue as not a major factor. All sources noted some ships being redirected to avoid the Gulf of Aden.

The extend of the diversion: will be determined by how effective promised efforts by the European Union: to stifle the hijacking of ships in the Gulf of Aden will be.

Asia- Sri Lanka- Government takes key Tamil Rebel Position by force

(Social Justice South Africa ; c.f. Reuters (Secular) 15/11/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Reuters is reporting that the Sri Lanka army has taken the key rebel stronghold of Pooneryn. The stronghold has held out for over a decade, as the army finally advances further against the rebels. There seems to be no clear stance of the Catholic church on the Tigers- terrorism is openly condemned, and Catholic Archbishop Oswald Gomis, earlier- in February this year told of fears (reported by Vatican Radio 25/02/2008) of the "Tigers" targeting tourists. Other than this, sources of views we have read from the church, or news sources reporting with or on her seem neutral on the issue- simply reporting news.

Africa- Great Lakes Region-DRC-Congo- Goma Violence continues- claims of looting of refugee camps, and torching of these surface!

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. CNN (Secular) 31/10/08- thanks to a friend for pointing this out to me; IHT (Secular) 21/11/06; BBC World News 29/10/08)

CNN, like other news services is reporting on the harsh situation in the Kivu region around Goma. They have mentioned that there are reports being investigated, of camps being burnt. They note of 1 000 000 people who have fled Congo's violence.

We have already noted in previous articles, that even before this- camps had reached capacity- and many, even thousands- of the desperate refugees were having to find shelter elsewhere. Recently, when food aid was once again given out- a fence was scrambled over, and those being aided almost stampeded in a quest for the food. Catholic Relief Services, and many others have been forced to withdraw from the immediate area, to safer areas in the Congo. They (CRS) will still be supplying aid in Goma, but via the structures of Caritas Internationalis. Organizations such as Caritas Internationalis- are still doing a large portion of the work on the ground- via use of locals to distribute food to thousands, and also by tactical distribution of other products to ensure life- such as hygiene products, and blankets.

Rwanda, who the BBC (See one of our previous articles for c.f. or see link to BBC above), noted that the UN have reported to have been implicated somewhat in violence:

Rwandan troops shot at UN attack forces- at a helicopter, deny claims of being instrumental in this violence, or of responsibility for it. The fighting seems shockingly to involve the same two tribal groups who were involved in the Rwandan Genocide- the Rebels in Congo are of the tribe which was attacked in the Genocide, they claim to be protecting their tribe against "Rwandan Rebels" they claim are in the area. The conflict however is not ethnic, people of every group are dying or starving or fleeing because of the actions of the rebels, and there is no real visible presence of any enemy which they claim to be fighting, except the Congolese army, and the United Nations. The Rwandan president has still refused to appear before a French court for the death of his predecessor, whose death is widely thought to have been the Catalyst for the Rwandan genocide. Instead, French is now no longer an official language in Rwanda.

The British Minister to Africa, believes that the world risks another Rwanda in the DRC, if correct actions are not guided into place. France wants to send in thousands of EU troops to aid the situation, but this requires co-operation in Europe.

Violence is taking place during crop planting season- this means there will not be crops planted in the affected areas this year- resulting in threats to food security. Many have lost everything in recent weeks, and soldiers on both sides have been accused of human rights violations, as the Congolese government gradually loses control of their troops. A barely holding peace treaty is barely maintaining peace in the region, with some fighting continuing after dark.

DRC- Congo- Kivu Region- Catholic Relief Services pulls two relif workers out of country. Only grass roots organizations like Caritas Internationalis still easily operate in wartorn region

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Catholic News Service 30/10/08; Caritas Internationalis 30/10/08; BBC World News (Secular) 29/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Catholic Relief Services has pulled two relief workers out of the DRC into neighboring Rwanda- due to unsafe conditions of operation, however they claim this is an isolated event, and not a general withdrawal. The Relief workers can't wait to get back to the CRS headquarters in the southern Congo, where the organization's efforts are based.

In recent days a UN peace-keeper helicopter was shot at, purportedly, if UN sources quoted by the BBC (29/10/08) are to be taken as accurate- not by rebels, but by Rwandan troops, and DRC troops have been noted as shooting across the border when they saw weapons fire. The BBC's representation- noted exchanges of fire. Rwanda denies involvement in the conflict. Rebels however claim to have a purpose of fighting Rwanda's own claimed rebels they claim to be in the Congo. We cannot verify any of these claims, by the Rebels.


Caritas Internationalis is appealing for an end to violence. After a recent cease fire called for by rebel forces, and a UN condemnation of rebel activities, as rebels have attacked UN troops- there was still the sounds of gunfire under the shadows of the dark African night.

Caritas Internationalis needs better conditions to ensure 16 000 persons who they are supplying with food necessities get this. Other organizations, including Catholic Relief Services, are appealing western governments to intervene diplomatically. Much of the important work on the ground, however- is still being done by Caritas Internationalis, whose use of local grassroots people has enabled them to continue operations where some other organizations have needed to reassess the aid they are giving. Both Catholic Relief Services, who are appealing for US diplomatic support, and Development and Peace (who are asking the Canadian government for intervention), plan to use Caritas Internationalis in order to supply needs in the Goma Region, where Caritas has structures still in place.

Sites of those mentioned for their aid of efforts:

Caritas Internationalis
Catholic Reflief Services
Development and Peace

DRC- Civil Society claims failure by UN, Government- to stop advance of foreign backed Kivu Rebels- calls for March- which should happen, or have happened today

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides 27/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Two days ago- Agenzia Fides informed the world of a press release given to them of a request given to the DRC government, to allow a peaceful march- with the aim at promoting peace in the Kivu region, eastern Congo- where rebels- having foreign assistance- have advanced with seemingly unstoppable force against UN (United Nations) MONUC troops, who tried to halt them with attack helicopters recently, and against the Nation's National Army. Civil society also regrets that the DRC national army has also failed to halt the foreign backed rebels from taking over the vast Virunga National Park area.

The march will remember an Archbishop murdered 12 years ago in previous conflict, on returning from comforting refugees. Civil society, organizing the march, believe that peace is needed in the region, they also have called on the government to improve basic living conditions in the "two provinces", by which they likely mean those in the Kivu Area.

DRC- Congo- Aid workers evacuated as Human-Rights-abusing- rebels advance further

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Reuters (Secular) 28/10/08)

Article By Marc Aupiais

As the nation's Tutsi rebels advance further towards a regional captial against the Government forces in the eastern DRC, the United Nations, is pulling out about 50 aid workers from various charitable organizations from a town close to rebel forces, which is an aim of recent aggressions. Attack helicopters of the UN mission in the DRC recently attacked rebels positions with strategic air power- however the rebels responded with anti-aircraft barrages.

The rebels continue to fight government forces despite a recent treaty. The leader of the group currently advancing is wanted for fraud, use of child soldiers, illegal mining and human rights violations, but has yet to be advanced on by the recognized DRC government. Since the DRC gained a constitution via referendum, and has also had an election, the dynamics of the moral high ground have been shifting. The United Nations firmly states that they will do all in their power not allow further encroachment on urban areas by the infamous Kivu rebels, and that they will defend the nearby town with force.

The town, that the Rebels now want to launch an offensive against, Rutshuru, is home to tens of thousands of internal refugees fleeing violence caused largely by the advancing rebels. Recent attacks on a nearby town sent about 20 000 refugees fleeing for life, towards the provincial capital- Goma.

DRC Congo- Rebels continue to use the defense of an ethnic group as a defense, and first world woes as a cover to perpetrate their actions

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides 10/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Agenzia Fides reports (10/10/08) that using the media fog over Africa, the excuse of the defense of an ethnic group, and the misdirection of the global attention to internal issues such as financial issues, and terrorism- the Congo rebels continue to wage war on their government- displacing 1.2 million people.

Unlike Sudan- countries like the DRC, and Somalia which also are facing unjust aggression, and internal conflicts from different parties against others and for their own benefit- do not receive the needed media attention to help stem the tides of these conflicts and humanitarian situations- rather- these stories are oft kept out of the media- and when they appear in it, often nothing is done to better the situations- leaving western citizens believing the situations either solved, or because of inadequate efforts in the past and present to stop these conflicts- that they will not be solved by external aid.

INDIA- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Hiduist party denounces Benedict XVI- says India is sovreign in defense of current genocide

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Catholic culture 13/10/08;Vatican Information Service 12/10/08; EWTN 13/10/08)

Artical by Marc Aupiais

The Hinduist party in India- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has decried Benedict XVI for his statements praying for peace (12/10/08) in India, saying that India is "sovereign" (13/10/08), a method often used by the American Anti-Catholic movement until and including recent times to attack Catholics. The party stated that Benedict XVI, as a foreign religious leader had no right to object about or pray for peace on the genocide occurring in India against Christians and in particular Catholics at the moment. Efforts to aid genocide are to be considered issues by which guilt is shared. What is occurring in India is genocide if we take the UN definition- and those aiding it are guilty of aiding and abetting genocide.

The Holy Father (EWTN 13/10/08)also yeasterday canonized India's first female saint- St. Alfonsa of the Immaculate Conception 1910-1946. He noted, so in line with the current genocide in India- that this saint not only lived in perpetual issues, hardships, trials, and sufferings- but believed these to be her path God-given to God's salvation.

Those committing genocide against our Christian brothers and sisters claim they are doing the work of the Hindu faith. International organizations, while noting the defamatory comments made by many of the Hindu leaders against Catholics and other Christians in recent times, also believe that the real reason for the genocide is that Christianity has been disrupting the Indian cast system, where one's lot in life is settled by the position of their parents. None of the excuses given by the Hindu nationalists can justify the thousands affected by their tactical, calculated genocide. These recent statements by a Hinduist party show just how shocking the negligence of the Indian government. Christians have accused police of standing by doing nothing, while watching these calculated assaults take place. The assaults have not been prevented by the Indian government in refugee camps- forcing many Christians to flee to the jungles, where they face, and some have realized the deadly effect of- threats from natural causes.

Agenzia Fides- Humanitarian situation in DRC continues to worsen

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f.
Agenzia Fides 09/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The situation in North Kivu DRC, continues to worsen each day- and humanitarian organizations, including Caritas Internationalis are continuing to try to aid with the limited funds they have.

Often- to even get to refugees, one must enter the country by a dangerous route from from neighboring Rwanda. The aid of many is left directly to missionaries and the church, as many issues continue to prevent any real relief from the civil war in the country, and from its effects.

It is confirmed on the ground that many people in affected areas also
have dangerous health conditions.

A positive aspect- is that some children are being taught in schools again!

Vatican- Solve source of world problems- not simply the symptoms

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Zenit News Service 09/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Vatican has encouraged the UN to focus on the causes of world problems- while not ignoring the symptoms. This comes from Archbishop Celestino Miglior, permanent observer representing the Vatican at the United Nations.

The Archbishop is trying to point out that many statements by Nations in the world, only increase hostility- and that basing itself on the Universal Declaration of Human rights- a sad, beautiful result of that horrid Genocide, and battle ruined time- known as the Second World War- The UN showed the importance of peaceful means of achieving goals, and the value of every human life. He said that rhetoric should increase peace- and that peace is another word for development- as peace and development go hand in hand! He was clearly also referring to the violent rhetoric of some nations in recent times.