Arab Spring

It's been quite a long absence from the blog.

But, with "Arab Spring" happening in Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen, Bahrain, Libya, Syria and the region, I feel it's time to jot down some thoughts.

Morocco has it's February 20th Movement, composed mainly of young people on Facebook, who have gathered each month on a Sunday (March 20, April 24) in the main cities to demonstrate for reform and the end of corruption. There have been demonstrations here in the South, too.

The king responded with proposed reforms and a referendum to be held in June. Some are happy with that. Others are not. They say, "corruption needs cleaning. Society is still rife with red tape and obstructions."

Other observations on the street: more independent (w/o permit) street vendors selling veggies and fruit around town in residential neighborhoods. Even unofficial suqs markets operating. I asked friends about this.

Many said, "Officials are wary of what happened in Tunisia when that fruit vendor burned himself and jump-started a revolution. So, they are allowing independent vendors to operate without hassles."

Another said, "The protesters are too rushed. the king promised a referendum. Why do they want to open the eggs before they are ready to hatch? You have to let the eggs hatch when they are ready."