Arriving in Kabul is like arriving in no other country I have ever been to before. The beautiful beige mountains surrounding this city in ruins, with military and police presence seemingly everywhere, it doesn’t take long before a visitor see’s something odd or funny, an instant story for whomever will listen later.
The following podcast is just an introduction to this journey, with a limited explanation as to what I’m doing here, what I’ve observed so far, and all kinds of additonal thoughts about Afghanistan.
Podcast: Download
“An election held under the guns of a foreign occupation army cannot be called legitimate or democratic. That’s a basic tenet of international law.” http://j.mp/bq8u1J
As for your thoughts on continuing the occupation, the people of that country don’t want to be ruled by Americans. It’s no wonder Afghans glare at you in the street. There’s violence, oppression and total injustice right now. That there probably will be more violence in the vacuum a US withdrawal would leave doesn’t justify the US military staying, and besides, they should have thought of that before they invaded that poor country. Yeah, keep an open mind, blah blah blah. Frankly, I’ve heard enough–especially from employees of occupation connected foundations.
If you’ve heard enough then I won’t bother responding beyond wishing you well. thanks for the comment.
This is a fascinating account, and I can’t wait to hear more of your adventures. Best wishes, Mark!
Thanks Rob!
Hi BM!
First of all, congratulations! Im very glad you got this opportunity. I will be on the lookout for updates and reports from the field.
Stay safe,
W
All the best over there, Mark! I’m looking forward to hearing and reading more from your adventure!
What blog are you writing for? Can you post a link to it?
Cheers,
Chris
its americablog.com Chris.. that reminds me.. I should post today.
Great stuff, Mark. One of your best podcasts, perhaps because of the obvious tension — and giddiness! — evident in your voice from being in such a fascinating corner of the world. It’s funny, as I started listening, I wondered if, in the course of your travels, you ever find your opinion swayed… And lo and behold, you said as much with regard to the occupation. Hats off to you for speaking your mind and being honest. Stay safe, my friend.
David you’re to kind, these are but the ramblings of a crazy person. Yes its strange to hear me say Im now FOR the occupation to some extent… I dont like saying that even if its the feeling Ive gotten while being here.
Crazy or not, it’s interesting to hear! Glad you’re making the most of your experience.
you remind me a lot at my first days in Guatemala City