A womanizer and a chick who knows how to play the game...sharing their classy date with the nomads...so we might say dang! these two r beesaaniyaal Ahem! axahem! No one gets hurt! right?

Many thanks ya'all...Jamaal_11, postman, and Raxmah. postman welcome to SOL. Raxmah that was a good read indeed. Keep them coming plz. Here is a report (88 pages) by RAND that you might wanna read. The subject under microscope is Islam and Muslims. The report divides Muslims into five main categories, namely: The fundamentalists who "put forth an aggressive, expansionist version of Islam that does not shy away from violence. They want to gain political power and then to impose strict public observance of Islam, as they themselves define it, forcibly on as broad a population worldwide as possible." The traditionalists are those who believe that Islamic law and tradition ought to be rigorously and literally followed and Muslims orthodoxy should make some concessions in the literal application of sharia. The modernists are those who seek far-reaching changes to the current orthodox understanding a practice of Islam, while the secularists are those who believe that religion should be a private matter separate from politics and the state. The sufis are those who believe in a peaceful isolationist tendency. The report suggests that secularists may not be trusted as they have radical ideas based on anti-colonial, and imperialistic or communist ideologies. The fundamentalists and traditionalists can also not be trusted. However, the report suggests that fundamentalists and traditionalists must never be allowed to develop an alliance. Rather they should be encouraged to fight against each other. The only group that can serve as a dependable ally of the American and European elites are those modernists who are willing to argue that human will can assume supremacy over the will of the divine. In other words, who are willing to acknowledge the limitations of the Quran in guiding Muslims or others. The report suggests that such groups should be promoted and supported. The report also recommends that those belonging to fundamentalist brand of Islam must be exposed and their character must be questioned or even assassinated. Check it out for yourself and share with us what you make of it. Here is the original RAND report.. Excerpt: There is no question that contemporary Islam is in a volatile state, engaged in an internal and external struggle over its values, its identity, and its place in the world. Rival versions are contending for spiritual and political dominance. This conflict has serious costs and economic, social, political, and security implications for the rest of the world. Consequently, the West is making an increased effort to come to terms with, to understand, and to influence the outcome of this struggle. Clearly, the United States, the modern industrialized world, and indeed the international community as a whole would prefer an Islamic world that is compatible with the rest of the system: democratic, economically viable, politically stable, socially progressive, and follows the rules and norms of international conduct. They also want to prevent a “clash of civilizations” in all of its possible variants—from increased domestic unrest caused by conflicts between Muslim minorities and “native” populations in the West to increased militancy across the Muslim world and its consequences, instability and terrorism.

Nur, that is very thoughtful of you. Jazakuma Allahu Kheyran. Admin. & Mods. efforts and time are appreciated. Keep up the good work. Thanks nomads.

Kowneyn, Somali National Movement was at war with Somali government headed by Barre. The tribunals weigh in how these wars were conducted. Hence there were two sides in this war therefore Riyale as well as Siilaanyo will take the hot seat to answer few questions. Boorame victims as well as Berbera, Hargeysa, Burco will come in record numbers to make their case. Is this what you really want to happen. Morgan and Ganni are the citizens of Somalia and Somaliland have no recourse in issuing Subpoenas for their arrest dang! see how difficult this is I think they are guilt so are many so-called "mujahadiin" in your neck of the wood. Or La jiifiyaana banaan is the motto here. If you remember the elders adjudicated the quarrel on this issue by dismissing all the claims about that civil war. The reason being had they opened the Pandora box the political and militia elites would have found themselves on the hot seat. It goes both ways. If you see tribunal a necessary tool to see justice addressed then go to the UN Security Council and get the mandate from them. That is how it is done my friend. Don’t feed us misinformation…this post is case in point…we know better. Ayoub, Common pal! You got it all wrong. Defensive? Nah! I’m keeping it real buddy

Our friend Sophist wrote Originally posted by Sophist: Baasi About the footbal attire; the Cawra of the man is much contentious judicial matter. The famous Imamu Ahlu-Hadith Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn Ismail ibn Ibrahim Ibn Muqira ibn Bardisba Al Ju’fi Al Bukhari argued that Cawrarada ninku inaaney ka bilaaban jilibka ee laakiin xitaa bowdada (cajirka) ninku aanu cawro aheyn. Hadalkiisan wuxuu asal uga dhigayaa, xadiithka Mutafiqa ah (waan umaleyn inuu mutafiq yahay); Nabiga SCW oo kugurigiisa fadhiya ayaa oo bawdadiisu (cajirkiisu) uu sn udaboolneyn ayaa waxaa usoo galaya abu Bakar, ma uu daboolanayo, kadibna, Cumar, ma uu daboolanayo, Kadib ayaa waxaa soo galaya Cuthmaan; markaas ayuu daboolan bawdadiisa isagoo leh, “miyaanan kaxishooneynin (ixtiraameynin) nin malaa’igtuba kaxishooto” Awkamaa qaala Nabiyu Salahu Calayhi Wasalamm. Nur and Sophist, I have to admit my "cilmi dhegood" fail me this time around as I have never heard this "naked cajar" thing as mubaax before. I have always thought the short pants (above the knee) were not permitted. Could you plz enlighten me about this. Many thanks in advance.

Originally posted by AYOUB_SHEIKH: Maybe we should have a 'Truth Commission' like South Africa and spend the money on the orphans and crippled. Not a bad idea at all. That way the gennie would stay in the bottle where it belongs. The bottle should be locked up tight for eternity.

^ducada Aamiin.

Kowneyn, What happen to the critical thinking or have you lately become so biased you lost your sense of judgment? This is rubbish and nonsensical piece. Here is the reason why: 1. The UN has established two ad hoc tribunals to punish crimes committed in relation to two specific contexts: Rwanda and Yugoslavia. 2. The conduct of individuals is a matter of national courts. The last time I checked the individuals accused of these crimes were not Rwandan, how on earth would they be tried in Arusha Tribunal is beyond me since Arusha Tribunal’s jurisdiction is limited to actions committed in Rwanda or by Rwandan nationals. SNM is "mujahid" for some and a "villian" for others. So is USC, Abdiqasim, and some former government officials. If and when we got a working government will have them (all folks in commanding position at the time of crimes were committed) answer few specific crimes against humanity. Let's try them all. Selective justice is no no proposition.

Kareeto! with all the new features...that is my favorite car...what a ride. If u haven't had the chance, u just don't know what u r missing. Egland won't permit this product into their market though...

Rahima, U have a point there sis. Nur is a fallible man. I'm sure he knows too well that some brothers who are into the soccer game disregard their duty to observe the Islamic dress code. But the transistors, resistors, and sisters rhyme... Now, let me help out the ones who have little understanding about the terms used in this creative post. Resistors and Transistors are electrical components that control the follow of electrical current. The former resist the follow of the current and the later modulates and/or controls the follow of the current. Nur’s theory as I understood it substitutes the attitude of the Hijab dress code as the current these component are meant to control. Sister is the one who embraces Hijab wholeheartedly. They are perfect conductors. No resistance there. Transistor is the one whose taste of Hijab as the best dress code is modulated by the fashion of the day. She acts as a switch controlling the dress taste according to which fashion is in or which one is out! Resistor is the one who just cannot imagine herself as a veiled sister. The four-yard yellow, kaki, or black wardrobe just does not cut it for her (perception being the wardrobe are limited to these). In addition, the Levi jeans and “cabaya” is one step short from the glory so I might as well go for it, she reasons. All these pretty curves have to be revealed for all to see...the natural beauty must be enhanced with Western product and it must be celebrated and showcased! The effect is undeniable: heads turn...attention, compliments, etc.

Kowneyn, Hehee I guess Col. Yusuf, Col. Riyale, A/Qasim and Co. are the ones who you think now what they are doing! What do I know! Perhaps if and only if I cease posting my take on our affairs...perhaps that will help them do an effective job ...dang! Kowneyn...c'mon dude!

^ It is far-fetched excuse not to vote or not to get organized politically because we are insignificant minority or the odds against us is humongous. I agree with you that the prospect of changing American foreign policy is not very good given the unparalleled influence special interests have over the elite senior policy makers. We have to vote in order to tip the balance in favor of those who are willing to listen to our concerns. Besides the local and state level is where real politics are fought and precisely there is where we can make the difference. Vote plz!

Schisms and heterodoxy among Muslims 4/4/2004 - Religious Social - Article Ref: IC0404-2265 Number of comments: 27 Opinion Summary: Agree:18 Disagree:2 Neutral:7 By: Javeed Akhter IslamiCity* - An etiological analysis & lessons from the past. One of Islam's major objectives is to achieve unity of mankind through unity of God. The first and essential step toward unity of mankind is the unity of the Muslim community (Umma.) Quran's exhortations to Muslims to remain united are stated in clear and unambiguous terms. "And hold fast, all together, unto the bond with Allah, and do not draw apart from one another. And remember the blessings, which Allah has bestowed upon you: how you were enemies, He brought hearts together, so that through His blessings you become brethren". (Al-Imran. 6:159 and Al-Anbiya. 21:92-93.) Islam's annoyance at those who tear apart the unity of the community "wide asunder piece by piece, --" (Al-Muminun. 23:52-52) is unmistakable. The condemnation of previous communities who have broken apart in sects also appears forcefully on multiple occasions. (Al-Anam. 6:159 and Al-Anbiya. 21:92-93.) It is therefore surprising and perplexing to see how divided and torn apart the Muslim community is. Heterodoxy or departure from the original religious point of view of the Quran and Sunnah (The way) of Prophet Muhammad appears to be the rule rather than the exception. In fact sometimes it is difficult to identify a group that is universally accepted as truly representing the tenets of Quran. There are a multitude of Islamic and quasi-Islamic sects. In one instance an entirely new religion has evolved. This old and continuing phenomenon of discord and heterodoxy deserves close scrutiny and analysis. Read on

Plz vote if u have that privilage. ----------------------------------------------- NEW YORK -- Nizar Yaghi hasn't decided for whom he'll vote on Election Day, but one thing is certain _ the Muslim American will cast his ballot this November. "After Sept. 11, I understood that Muslim Americans need to come out and present themselves to the Americans," said Yaghi, a 28-year-old engineer from Schenectady, N.Y. "One way to do this is through the political process." With the 2004 presidential election approaching, people like Yaghi are stepping up efforts to encourage their fellow Muslims to register to vote and to convince the presidential candidates that they need to be accountable to the Muslim American community, which numbers up to 7 million, according to estimates. Although Muslim groups say there are only about 4.2 million eligible Muslim voters out of 200 million eligible voters overall, they believe these voters could have considerable influence on the November election. "We believe this election will be a very tight one and small communities can play a major role, particularly in battleground states such as Michigan, Ohio and Florida, where a majority of Muslims live," Omar Ahmad, national chairman of the Council on American Islamic Relations, said at a news conference on Saturday. Ahmad's group is one of several that belong to the American Muslim Taskforce on Civil Rights and Elections, an umbrella organization that aims to register 1 million Muslims to vote and to educate Muslims about the presidential candidates' positions. Agha Saeed, the chairman of the task force, said his group hasn't decided which presidential candidate it will endorse, but he said it would weigh the candidates' positions on civil rights issues, the economy, crime prevention and education. "We are going to hold town hall meetings all over the United States for the community and for the candidates to engage in a dialogue where we bring ourselves up to speed on these issues and create common cause with fellow Americans," Saeed said. Muslim leaders made their first unified endorsement in a presidential race in 2000, backing George W. Bush. Many thought he would take a harder line against Israel and, based on statements he made while campaigning, would protect the rights of immigrants facing deportation. Many Muslims said they have been disappointed on both counts. They also have objected to the USA Patriot Act, which gave the government broad powers to monitor citizens after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. A spokesman for the Bush re-election campaign, Scott Stanzel, said the president would work to maintain the support of the Muslim community by appealing to its beliefs in "strong family, opportunity and the ability to achieve the American dream." A spokesman for Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry could not be reached by telephone for comment. Copyright © 2004, The Associated Press

Sophist, Hambalyo bro. Baraka Allahu laka wabaraaka calayka wajamaca beynukumaa fil kheyr.

The Legendary nomad has spoken Bravo! Now let me add few questions to the list: 7. Can we definitively state the “problem” we are supposed to solve? 8. Is it political? If it is, is it urgent priority? 9. Where do we start? 10. Will there be a litmus test? If yes, how you go about that? If no, how you find a like-minded people who really understand diversity in opinion is a blessing as long as there is a platform and rules of engagement? 11. Where do we get our inspiration? 12. After all said and done, what do we really want to achieve? Plz continue...I'll be back in Mon. Have a good wkend fellas.

Gediid bro, I honestly don't know. I do know, however, secession is not the answer. If I have to take an educated guess I would say the "bottom up" and "building-block" approach is one, among many practical options, that could work. There is saying revered by engineers and that is Edison's popular qoute "I haven't failed, I've found 10,000 ways that don't work" At least we now know what won't work: Pseudo-democracy or clan-based democracy, communism, dictatorship, etc. As they say trouble is temporary but the experience it teaches is permanent.

Gediid, Sentiments aside, can you, by any chance, decipher the substance of the sonnet and the principles he is articulating. I sure do see where u coming from as far as ambutation of the rotten limb is concerned. However, to perform that kind of surgical work all other options must fail first. It all comes down to medical necessity. What happen to the second opinion all sane peaople would have sought when the stakes are high or the mid-wife's wisdom suffice it in this case

Originally posted by Gediid: Baashi Nin guurigiisu gubanayo hadalkiisu and his so called "intellectual" diatribe against Somaliland is meaningless.I would suggest MM Gure and their likes to invest their time and energy in solving their own problems(Nairobi fiasco is a case at hand)instead of pointing fingers like a band of fools wondering aimlessly with absolutely no hope to speak of. As for the issue of Somalis sharing ties hore loo yidhi gacantada oo qudhunto(qurunto) waa leyska gooyaa,it causes more harm than good.I think people like you whose reasoning I respect will understand that. Gediid bro...the wise poet got it right in early sixties and his words still apply today. Speaking of limb cutting business as a metaphor for secession poet Abdullahi Suldaan Timacade summed up this way: Gardaduub hadii loo xidhoo, gaadhna ka ahaato, Gacantii nin lihi goyneyaa waa gumuduntaaye, Nin walaalkii geed ugu jidhaa geesi noqon waa! As a young intelligent Muslim, I hope these words of wisdom resonate....

Shifta; sxb, aniga widaayowna waan aqaanaa, bish doonte, akamjirta iska daa, naw-dana waan gashtaa- doofaar, doofar dhalay, najis, eeebow etc iskaba daa. waxaan ahay qaxooti rasmi ah. Adigu 1990; ayaad qaxooti noqotay, anigu se qaxootinamadu waan ku dhashtay! akamjirte, bish doonte... I'm waiting for the Eastleigh report...by the way, I was there last month.

Maansha'Allah MM Gure hit the nail on the head.

MMA, Two quick points that I don’t like about the article. First, as all other constitutional draft, it is a secular solution that leaves no room for Islamist to participate the process or the transitional authority. Second, the presidential council in the way they defined is ineffective and indecisive. By the way, given the state we are in I’m all for anything that can get us back on our feet. If this can work I would definetly give it a chance. The law and order is what I value and it is what gives the peace a fertile ground to grow.

Geel-jire, Darman, and Qacqac I'm glad u enjoyed the article. Tamina wlc back sis...haven't seen u post for ages.

Nur, Same here too bro Nur from what I hear these days power brokers, king makers, and warlords are not on the same page. I'm still holding on to every bit of hope though. Why don't we mimic the passengers aboard of the one of the 911 planes and wrestle them warlords for the control of the operating room before the crash eh? Atleast we will be remembered as the brave cyber boys.

Spadez, First of all Ms London will clarify what by Somalia she meant. If I misunderstood her then I will concede that and call it an honest mistake. The legal argument of secessionists is their weakest point for they ignore the “irrevocability” of the document as was agreed then. Moreover, the vexing question of who wants to withdraw is on the table. Is it “Somaliland” as we know it or party of that entity? The simplistic approach you and other vocal minority had voiced should be reviewed for the sake of your credibility. As to the notion of nation-state being European invention has some truth to it. However, dynasties and other imperial powers be it Islamic or Chinese had been in existence in different form long before modern European model. You have a point in saying “Somaliweyn” is conceived on nationalistic platform in its conception. I’m also in agreement that Islam forbids any form of “assabiyah” be it tribal or nationalistic. My understanding is that Islam teaches us not to attach ourselves to land but to belief and if necessary we should leave our homeland for the sake of our faith. That being said, what Somaliweyn sentiments entail today is fundamentally different from what it entailed thirty years ago. Today that label is thrown at anyone who is for the Somalia that once existed before the anarchy. What you need to understand is Islamists have compelling interest in having integrated not fragmented Islamic polity. What we have is secular nation-states, not on our own making but imposed upon us, scattered all over the world. In each country, the Islamic revival is virtually a national movement. They are operating within the confined imaginary borders they found themselves in and in which they want to abolish. Somaliweyn goals and Islamist goals converge in this intersection. If anything, breaking up Somalia is the worst “assabiyah” one could ever conceive. As to making the case of Somali unity, it is simple: Somalis are one people united by ties of blood, history, language, religion, and interests. They ought to be united in one political entity which is socially and culturally Islamic, modern, and progressive. As to how we do this that is my friend the one billion question and we need people like you to help us come up ways to achieve this goal.