The Jasmine Revolution, started with sacrifice by one individual in Tunisia, has spread to most of the Arab world. Tunisia and Egypt have achieved their freedom from tyranny of their dictators. Flame of revolution has spread to Libya, Syria, Bahrain and Yemen, and even to Saudi Arabia and Jordan. In these countries people’s yearning for freedom can be seen in their resolve to confront even the most brutal dictators. They are sacrificing countless lives to achieve this goal.
The question is why are there so many dictatorships in Arab World?
What European called “Dark Ages” was the “Golden Era” of Islam from 700-1800 C.E. Muslims produced the largest number of scientists, philosophers, mathematicians, astrologers and poets. The name of people like Al-Khawarizmi (Algebra), Al-Baruni (Mathematics and Astrology), Ibn-Sina or Avveros (Medicine) are well-known to the west. Baghdad was the seat of modern scientific learning with the best libraries in the world. In fact translation of these books in Europe was partly responsible for European Renaissance. Invasion and ravaging of Baghdad in 1258 by Genghis Khan drove Arabs back by at least 100 years.
The Ottoman Empire was weakened by the loss in World War I. This allowed British, Spanish, French and the Dutch to colonise areas of North Africa, Middle East and Asia. After World War II, these countries lost their grip on power leading to independence of these countries. However, the colonial powers imposed their puppets to rule in their former colonies. This unfortunately allowed the liberators of land to slowly become dictators of their own people.
Rising persecution, high unemployment, poverty, corruption, increasing young population and increasing frustration with political leadership have led to the Jasmine Revolution. This people power has shaken up the kings, dictators and billionaires who are powerhouses in their own land.
People want freedom to choose their own destiny. They are tired of false promises, corruption, poverty and endless rule without any democratic election.
They want an election to choose leaders who will serve their need and try to solve problems rather than serving their own interests. People are paying dearly for this freedom in many countries. The harder the victory the more people will realise that freedom is a priceless commodity that they can’t let go.
It will be unfortunate if western powers orchestrate this revolution to suit their own interests and derail the path of freedom one more time. If we are there to help the freedom loving people and get rid of the dictators, we should have a well-formulated plan and strategy as well as a clear timetable for exit. If we don’t, we may be putting ourselves into an unending and costly mess.
[Dr. Ansari is a board certified Nephrologist and President of Clinton Islamic Centre in Clinton ,Iowa.]