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Yemen votes, Damascus revolts – live updates Yemen votes, Damascus revolts – Tuesday 21 February
(40 minutes later)
4.55pm: Here's a summary of the main developments today.
Syria
• The Baba Amr district of Homs has suffered its heaviest shelling in days according to activists. The London-based Syrian Network for Human Rights said at least 250 shells and rockets had hit Baba Amr since the morning. The Local Co-ordination Committees activist group said 23 people were killed in Homs - 16 in Baba Amr, six in Qusair and one in Bayada. Four children and three women are among the dead it said. Activists said around 340 people have been wounded in Baba Amr today.
• Russia has said it will not not attend the "friends of Syria" meeting in Tunisia at the end of the week because Syrian government representatives have not been invited. Foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich accused participants of attempting "to forge some kind of international coalition like it was with the setting-up of a 'Contact Group' for Libya". China said it has not decided whether it will take part. Russia also urged the UN to send a special envoy to Syria to co-ordinate security issues and humanitarian aid.
• The LCC also reported shelling in Idlib, in north-west Syria, where it said five people were killed. It said three people were killed in Damascus suburbs, two in Douma and one in Mesraba.
• Security forces opened fire at protesters in Damascus overnight as unrest continued to spread in the capital. At least least four people were wounded, according to activists.
Yemen
• At least eight soldiers were killed at southern polling stations as Yemenis voting for a new president to succeed Ali Abdullah Saleh, the BBC reported. Half of Aden's polling stations closed early as a result but voting in the capital Sana'a was calm and orderly, according to the BBC. Some voters are boycotting the poll because there is only one candidate – vice-president Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. There have also been complaints about the $48m cost of the election, given that the result is a foregone conclusion.
• A British member of the House of Lords, Baroness Emma Nicholson, had a narrow escape today when her vehicle was hit by gunfire in Aden, according to the Yemen Observer. She was observing the presidential election accompanied by two female Yemeni ministers, the Yemen Observer said. The BBC said Nicholson was in a polling station when explosions took place near to the building. It was not clear whether the reports referred to the same incident but Nicholson told the BBC she did not think she had been the target of the attack.
Libya
• Thousands of displaced people in the Misrata area of Libya are unable to return to their homes, Human Rights Watch said today. It accused local authorities of keeping them away from the villages of Tomina and Kararim and of failing to stop militias from looting and burning homes there.
• A Red Crescent worker says more than 50 civilians were killed in the past 24 hours in tribal warfare in southern Libya. Moussa Bazama, an ambulance worker, says rockets, mortars and gunfire rocked residential areas in the desert town of Kufra, leaving scores killed and injured. Hundreds of families are fleeing toward northern cities.
4.33pm: The Local Co-ordination Committees report that Idlib in north-west Syria has also come under bombardment today. The group reports five deaths. Here are some of its updates:4.33pm: The Local Co-ordination Committees report that Idlib in north-west Syria has also come under bombardment today. The group reports five deaths. Here are some of its updates:
Jabal Al-Zawiyah: The regime's army is raiding Ebdeta town with 15 tanks and one Zill car. Several martyrs have fallen and until now the residents couldn't pull them out of the streets due to the intense shooting by security forces ...Jabal Al-Zawiyah: The regime's army is raiding Ebdeta town with 15 tanks and one Zill car. Several martyrs have fallen and until now the residents couldn't pull them out of the streets due to the intense shooting by security forces ...
Idlib: Khan Sheikhon: Intense shelling at the city is taking place now and the civilians' homes are being targeted with artillery and armored vehicles' shells amid intense shooting by security members who were deployed at the checkpoints all over the cityIdlib: Khan Sheikhon: Intense shelling at the city is taking place now and the civilians' homes are being targeted with artillery and armored vehicles' shells amid intense shooting by security members who were deployed at the checkpoints all over the city
Idlib: Maaret Noman: Many shells fell on houses in the area close to the international highway Damascus-Aleppo that passes through the city. This led to fires in several of the houses while the regime's forces continued their intense gunfire from their vehiclesIdlib: Maaret Noman: Many shells fell on houses in the area close to the international highway Damascus-Aleppo that passes through the city. This led to fires in several of the houses while the regime's forces continued their intense gunfire from their vehicles
These reports cannot be independently verified.These reports cannot be independently verified.
4.02pm: A British member of the House of Lords, Baroness Emma Nicholson, had a narrow escape today when her vehicle was hit by gunfire in Aden, according to the Yemen Observer.4.02pm: A British member of the House of Lords, Baroness Emma Nicholson, had a narrow escape today when her vehicle was hit by gunfire in Aden, according to the Yemen Observer.
She was observing the presidential election accompanied by two female Yemeni ministers, the Yemen Observer said:She was observing the presidential election accompanied by two female Yemeni ministers, the Yemen Observer said:
Eyewitnesses said that unidentified militants fired machine guns at the motorcade of the baroness and that her vehicle was hit by at least four bullets.Eyewitnesses said that unidentified militants fired machine guns at the motorcade of the baroness and that her vehicle was hit by at least four bullets.
However security sources affirmed that the baroness and the two ministers were not hurt. The security forces fired back at the attackers and forced them to run away.However security sources affirmed that the baroness and the two ministers were not hurt. The security forces fired back at the attackers and forced them to run away.
3.57pm: There are conflicting reports over who was responsible for the killing of Aleppo based businessman, Mahmoud Ramadan, last night.3.57pm: There are conflicting reports over who was responsible for the killing of Aleppo based businessman, Mahmoud Ramadan, last night.
Syrian state news agency Sana reports that he died at the hands of "armed terrorist groups", a term usually employed as a euphemism for the opposition.Syrian state news agency Sana reports that he died at the hands of "armed terrorist groups", a term usually employed as a euphemism for the opposition.
[A] Sana reporter in Aleppo learned that an armed group, driving a stolen car with a board [number plate] owned by Idleb governorate, shot fires heavily at [the] martyr Ramadan while leaving his home.[A] Sana reporter in Aleppo learned that an armed group, driving a stolen car with a board [number plate] owned by Idleb governorate, shot fires heavily at [the] martyr Ramadan while leaving his home.
Ramadan, born in 1969, married with three children, was the owner of Shahbaa Rose Co. for Hotels.Ramadan, born in 1969, married with three children, was the owner of Shahbaa Rose Co. for Hotels.
The death was confirmed by the British-based activist group, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which describes Ramadan as "pro-regime" and says he was killed by "unknown people".The death was confirmed by the British-based activist group, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which describes Ramadan as "pro-regime" and says he was killed by "unknown people".
However, other activists say Ramdan was targeted because his brother is a member of the Syrian National Council opposition group.However, other activists say Ramdan was targeted because his brother is a member of the Syrian National Council opposition group.
#Aleppo: Assasination of Mahmoud Ramadan,brother of Ahmad Ramadan(#SNC Executive Office member) after regime forces shot him near his home#Aleppo: Assasination of Mahmoud Ramadan,brother of Ahmad Ramadan(#SNC Executive Office member) after regime forces shot him near his home
— Jana FreeSyria (@SYRIAslyJana) February 20, 2012— Jana FreeSyria (@SYRIAslyJana) February 20, 2012
And a video posted online purports to show him being hailed as a martyr by activists at his funeral.And a video posted online purports to show him being hailed as a martyr by activists at his funeral.
3.31pm: Yemen spokesman Mohammed Albasha seems be suggesting that we shall have to wait 10 days for the official result of today's election. Oh, the suspense!3.31pm: Yemen spokesman Mohammed Albasha seems be suggesting that we shall have to wait 10 days for the official result of today's election. Oh, the suspense!
According to the #Yemeni election laws, official voting tallies are to be announced 10 days after the election "#FEB21" day | #YEMEN |According to the #Yemeni election laws, official voting tallies are to be announced 10 days after the election "#FEB21" day | #YEMEN |
— Mohammed Albasha(@Yemen411) February 21, 2012— Mohammed Albasha(@Yemen411) February 21, 2012
3.23pm: In an article for Comment is free, Fares Chamseddine analyses the new constitution that President Assad wants Syrians to approve in a referendum next week. He writes:3.23pm: In an article for Comment is free, Fares Chamseddine analyses the new constitution that President Assad wants Syrians to approve in a referendum next week. He writes:
The body of the constitution is a rambling and long list of articles – 157 to be precise. Frustratingly, it again insists that the president should be "part of the Muslim faith" ...The body of the constitution is a rambling and long list of articles – 157 to be precise. Frustratingly, it again insists that the president should be "part of the Muslim faith" ...
There are also bizarre articles enshrining physical education, the sacredness of marriage and protection of the environment, while article 40 says that the state undertakes to provide employment for all citizens – I'm not sure why or how a "state" can do that.There are also bizarre articles enshrining physical education, the sacredness of marriage and protection of the environment, while article 40 says that the state undertakes to provide employment for all citizens – I'm not sure why or how a "state" can do that.
If the only fault with this draft was that it was poorly written and structured then perhaps Assad could be forgiven. But the most important parts of it, those related to the governing of the country, show us an extremely powerful role for the presidency and a pervasive state apparatus, which is something that many Syrians should be very wary of after 40 years of dictatorship.If the only fault with this draft was that it was poorly written and structured then perhaps Assad could be forgiven. But the most important parts of it, those related to the governing of the country, show us an extremely powerful role for the presidency and a pervasive state apparatus, which is something that many Syrians should be very wary of after 40 years of dictatorship.
3.17pm: Mohammad al-Mohammad, a doctor at a makeshift hospital in Baba Amr, in Homs, who has featured in a number of videos, appears in a new video in which he condemns the lack of international intervention. It starts with Mohammad standing over a man, who is said to be one of those killed by shelling in the area today (warning: graphic).3.17pm: Mohammad al-Mohammad, a doctor at a makeshift hospital in Baba Amr, in Homs, who has featured in a number of videos, appears in a new video in which he condemns the lack of international intervention. It starts with Mohammad standing over a man, who is said to be one of those killed by shelling in the area today (warning: graphic).
Mona Mahmood has provided a translation of what Mohammad says:Mona Mahmood has provided a translation of what Mohammad says:
Homs, Baba Amr, 21 February 2012. Wounded city of Baba Amr, the area having tens of martyrs. The number has exceeded 30 martyrs so far today. I don't know why it is. Just because we say 'There is no God but Allah [i.e. because we are Muslims]? Is it just because we said we don't want Bashar? Why? We don't know. Who is responsible for us? We do not know.Homs, Baba Amr, 21 February 2012. Wounded city of Baba Amr, the area having tens of martyrs. The number has exceeded 30 martyrs so far today. I don't know why it is. Just because we say 'There is no God but Allah [i.e. because we are Muslims]? Is it just because we said we don't want Bashar? Why? We don't know. Who is responsible for us? We do not know.
No-one is intervening until this moment, we don't know why. If there was a Christian district in Homs bombed with rockets would the world stay silent? And would Europe just watch? I swear to God that at that time even Saudi Arabia would intervene to stop such a massacre if that happened in any Christian district in Syria. But now, because we are Muslims, our blood is cheap. Is our blood cheaper than others?No-one is intervening until this moment, we don't know why. If there was a Christian district in Homs bombed with rockets would the world stay silent? And would Europe just watch? I swear to God that at that time even Saudi Arabia would intervene to stop such a massacre if that happened in any Christian district in Syria. But now, because we are Muslims, our blood is cheap. Is our blood cheaper than others?
I swear to God, we would leave Baba Amr only as martyrs. We have made an oath with God that we will leave only as martyrs.I swear to God, we would leave Baba Amr only as martyrs. We have made an oath with God that we will leave only as martyrs.
3.01pm: Thousands of displaced people in the Misrata area of Libya are unable to return to their homes, Human Rights Watch said today. It accused local authorities of keeping them away from the villages of Tomina and Kararim and have failing to stop militias from looting and burning homes there.3.01pm: Thousands of displaced people in the Misrata area of Libya are unable to return to their homes, Human Rights Watch said today. It accused local authorities of keeping them away from the villages of Tomina and Kararim and have failing to stop militias from looting and burning homes there.
The abuse mirrors the treatment of roughly 30,000 displaced people from the nearby town of Tawergha, who have also been blocked from returning home for at least five months, Human Rights Watch said.The abuse mirrors the treatment of roughly 30,000 displaced people from the nearby town of Tawergha, who have also been blocked from returning home for at least five months, Human Rights Watch said.
In a statement posted on its website, the New York based organisation said:In a statement posted on its website, the New York based organisation said:
Officials in Misrata have sought to justify the violations to Human Rights Watch, contending that people from Tomina, Kararim, and Tawergha fought with Gaddafi forces and committed atrocities against Misratans during the 2011 conflict.Officials in Misrata have sought to justify the violations to Human Rights Watch, contending that people from Tomina, Kararim, and Tawergha fought with Gaddafi forces and committed atrocities against Misratans during the 2011 conflict.
"Tomina and Kararim are ghost towns because Misrata officials are blocking thousands of people who fled from returning home," said Peter Bouckaert, emergencies director at Human Rights Watch, who recently visited the villages and met with displaced residents. "Armed groups from Misrata are openly looting and destroying their homes, as they have been doing for months in Tawergha.""Tomina and Kararim are ghost towns because Misrata officials are blocking thousands of people who fled from returning home," said Peter Bouckaert, emergencies director at Human Rights Watch, who recently visited the villages and met with displaced residents. "Armed groups from Misrata are openly looting and destroying their homes, as they have been doing for months in Tawergha."
The Misrata authorities should issue immediate orders to the militias they control to stop the looting and home destructions, and should deploy a protective security forces in the affected area to facilitate the return of displaced people ...The Misrata authorities should issue immediate orders to the militias they control to stop the looting and home destructions, and should deploy a protective security forces in the affected area to facilitate the return of displaced people ...
2.26pm: Zainab al-Khawaja, a leading pro-democracy activist in Bahrain, has been released from detention, the BBC reports.2.26pm: Zainab al-Khawaja, a leading pro-democracy activist in Bahrain, has been released from detention, the BBC reports.
Ms Khawaja – who tweets as @angryarabiya – was arrested last Tuesday (the first anniversary of Bahrain's uprising) while trying to reach the site of the now-demolished Pearl Roundabout. She was charged with being involved in an illegal gathering.Ms Khawaja – who tweets as @angryarabiya – was arrested last Tuesday (the first anniversary of Bahrain's uprising) while trying to reach the site of the now-demolished Pearl Roundabout. She was charged with being involved in an illegal gathering.
2.00pm: Here's a picture of President-to-be Hadi casting his vote in Yemen today. And please don't ask who he voted for.2.00pm: Here's a picture of President-to-be Hadi casting his vote in Yemen today. And please don't ask who he voted for.
In case you're wondering what the ballot papers look like, Tom Finn has posted a photo.In case you're wondering what the ballot papers look like, Tom Finn has posted a photo.
1.48pm: Once President Saleh is out of the way, the next stage of the US plan for Yemen is to "restructure" the military. Commanders who don't behave "appropriately" will get no help from the Americans, an article in the New York Times says:1.48pm: Once President Saleh is out of the way, the next stage of the US plan for Yemen is to "restructure" the military. Commanders who don't behave "appropriately" will get no help from the Americans, an article in the New York Times says:
A high-ranking Yemeni official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject said the United States would be playing a leading role in the restructuring of the armed forces after Mr Hadi officially became president.A high-ranking Yemeni official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject said the United States would be playing a leading role in the restructuring of the armed forces after Mr Hadi officially became president.
John Brennan, President Obama's chief counterterrorism adviser, said there would be a series of visits from United States officials who would focus on a variety of issues, including military restructuring.John Brennan, President Obama's chief counterterrorism adviser, said there would be a series of visits from United States officials who would focus on a variety of issues, including military restructuring.
"There needs to be a national army and national military that is going to fight against al-Qaida," Mr Brennan said in a telephone interview. United States assistance will go only to military and security units that are commanded by individuals who "are going to be professional and direct their forces appropriately," he said. "We believe the Yemeni people are tired of having Yemeni military point their guns at one another.""There needs to be a national army and national military that is going to fight against al-Qaida," Mr Brennan said in a telephone interview. United States assistance will go only to military and security units that are commanded by individuals who "are going to be professional and direct their forces appropriately," he said. "We believe the Yemeni people are tired of having Yemeni military point their guns at one another."


Yemen watcher Gregory Johnsen is sceptical about the plan. Washington is "about to enter a snake pit", he tweets.

Yemen watcher Gregory Johnsen is sceptical about the plan. Washington is "about to enter a snake pit", he tweets.
1.00pm: Here's a summary of the main developments so far today.1.00pm: Here's a summary of the main developments so far today.
SyriaSyria
• The Baba Amr district of Homs has suffered its heaviest shelling in days according to activists. The London-based Syrian Network for Human Rights said at least 250 shells and rockets had hit Baba Amr since the morning. The Local Co-ordination Committees activist group said 16 people have been killed in Baba Amr and six in Qusair, also in Homs. Four children and three women are among the dead it said. Activists said around 340 people have been wounded in Baba Amr today.• The Baba Amr district of Homs has suffered its heaviest shelling in days according to activists. The London-based Syrian Network for Human Rights said at least 250 shells and rockets had hit Baba Amr since the morning. The Local Co-ordination Committees activist group said 16 people have been killed in Baba Amr and six in Qusair, also in Homs. Four children and three women are among the dead it said. Activists said around 340 people have been wounded in Baba Amr today.
• Russia has said it will not not attend the "friends of Syria" meeting in Tunisia at the end of the week because Syrian government representatives have not been invited. Foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich accused participants of attempting "to forge some kind of international coalition like it was with the setting-up of a 'Contact Group' for Libya". China said it has not decided whether it will take part. Russia also urged the UN to send a special envoy to Syria to co-ordinate security issues and humanitarian aid.• Russia has said it will not not attend the "friends of Syria" meeting in Tunisia at the end of the week because Syrian government representatives have not been invited. Foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich accused participants of attempting "to forge some kind of international coalition like it was with the setting-up of a 'Contact Group' for Libya". China said it has not decided whether it will take part. Russia also urged the UN to send a special envoy to Syria to co-ordinate security issues and humanitarian aid.
• Security forces opened fire at protesters in Damascus overnight as unrest continued to spread in the capital. At least least four people were wounded, according to activists.• Security forces opened fire at protesters in Damascus overnight as unrest continued to spread in the capital. At least least four people were wounded, according to activists.
YemenYemen
• Yemenis have been voting for their new president, to succeed Ali Abdullah Saleh. Some voters are boycotting the poll because there is only one candidate – vice-president Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. There have also been complaints about the $48m cost of the election, given that the result is a foregone conclusion.• Yemenis have been voting for their new president, to succeed Ali Abdullah Saleh. Some voters are boycotting the poll because there is only one candidate – vice-president Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. There have also been complaints about the $48m cost of the election, given that the result is a foregone conclusion.
12.30pm: A shocking video has been posted online by opposition activists purporting to show a man with learning difficulties being encouraged to beat a detainee by members of the Shabiha (pro-Assad militia) who then laugh at him.12.30pm: A shocking video has been posted online by opposition activists purporting to show a man with learning difficulties being encouraged to beat a detainee by members of the Shabiha (pro-Assad militia) who then laugh at him.
The incident purportedly took place at a police station in Kisweh, in Damascus suburbs.The incident purportedly took place at a police station in Kisweh, in Damascus suburbs.
Our colleague Mona Mahmood translated the video for us. About 28 seconds in the alleged Shabiha member in the background, with a moustache, tells the interrogator to start beating the detainee.Our colleague Mona Mahmood translated the video for us. About 28 seconds in the alleged Shabiha member in the background, with a moustache, tells the interrogator to start beating the detainee.
The interrogator shouts at the detainee:The interrogator shouts at the detainee:

You do whatever I tell you. You dog. You dog. You dog. What are you saying? What are you talking about. Maybe I curse your parents. You animal. You are less than an animal. May God curse your parents.
You do whatever I tell you. You dog. You dog. You dog. What are you saying? What are you talking about. Maybe I curse your parents. You animal. You are less than an animal. May God curse your parents.
12.03pm: Around 500 Palestinians are demonstrating in Gaza city in solidarity with Syrian anti-government protesters, AP reports. It is a sign of how fractured the relationship between Hamas and Assad, formerly so strong, has become.12.03pm: Around 500 Palestinians are demonstrating in Gaza city in solidarity with Syrian anti-government protesters, AP reports. It is a sign of how fractured the relationship between Hamas and Assad, formerly so strong, has become.
The group of mostly Islamic University students hoisted Palestinian and Syrian flags and burned images of President Bashar Assad on Tuesday. They shouted "Bashar go to hell" to protest his violent crackdown on opponents.The group of mostly Islamic University students hoisted Palestinian and Syrian flags and burned images of President Bashar Assad on Tuesday. They shouted "Bashar go to hell" to protest his violent crackdown on opponents.
Assad has long hosted and supported leaders of the Islamic Hamas movement, which rules Gaza. But as the death toll in Syria swells, Hamas has been trying to distance itself from its patron.
Hamas police authorised the protest.		Assad has long hosted and supported leaders of the Islamic Hamas movement, which rules Gaza. But as the death toll in Syria swells, Hamas has been trying to distance itself from its patron.
Hamas police authorised the protest.
One of the organisers, Hamas activist Muhammad Rayyan, said the protest was against Assad and those in Syria who are "killing their own people."One of the organisers, Hamas activist Muhammad Rayyan, said the protest was against Assad and those in Syria who are "killing their own people."
12.02pm: In Syria, the Local Co-ordination Committees activist group says three women and three children are among those killed in Homs today. It says the death toll in Homs has reached 16 in total. The LCC says one person has also been killed in Qusair, which is also in Homs governorate.12.02pm: In Syria, the Local Co-ordination Committees activist group says three women and three children are among those killed in Homs today. It says the death toll in Homs has reached 16 in total. The LCC says one person has also been killed in Qusair, which is also in Homs governorate.
The Free Syrian Army claims to have captured a tank just outside Baba Amr today and has posted what it says is video evidence.The Free Syrian Army claims to have captured a tank just outside Baba Amr today and has posted what it says is video evidence.
11.45am: Mohammed Albasha, Yemen's spokesperson in Washington, has been tweeting about the election.11.45am: Mohammed Albasha, Yemen's spokesperson in Washington, has been tweeting about the election.
He describes 292 (out of 301) polling districts as operational. The main problems seem to have been in the south, with five districts affected in Lahej province, three in Dhali' and one in Abyan.He describes 292 (out of 301) polling districts as operational. The main problems seem to have been in the south, with five districts affected in Lahej province, three in Dhali' and one in Abyan.
He says a sniper killed a police officer watching over voters in Aden and four suspects have been detained.He says a sniper killed a police officer watching over voters in Aden and four suspects have been detained.
He reports "very strong turnout over 80% of registered voters" in Marib (a heavily tribal area) though turnout has been low in Saada province and areas controlled by the Houthi rebels, he says.He reports "very strong turnout over 80% of registered voters" in Marib (a heavily tribal area) though turnout has been low in Saada province and areas controlled by the Houthi rebels, he says.
11.35am: The veracity of different media outlets' reports on Syria is a regular topic of discussion in the comments section, so this should be of interest. France 24 has an interview with a former Syrian news anchor who quit because of "state-orchestrated misinformation".11.35am: The veracity of different media outlets' reports on Syria is a regular topic of discussion in the comments section, so this should be of interest. France 24 has an interview with a former Syrian news anchor who quit because of "state-orchestrated misinformation".
Hani al-Malathi had not been seen on air since August last year after having fled to Dubai, where he remains today. He officially resigned only last week. He said:Hani al-Malathi had not been seen on air since August last year after having fled to Dubai, where he remains today. He officially resigned only last week. He said:
I will not go back. I had the feeling I was taking part in a propaganda campaign orchestrated by the regime ... Both state and private media were transmitting false information, and anything that didn't match up was portrayed as foreign meddling or a conspiracy ... Our attempts to sell them [the public] a different story only added fuel to the fire. Instead of calming people down, we actually provoked the protesters to go further, fuelled their anger and reinforced a sense of shared hostility among the public ... There would be no mention of the crackdown.I will not go back. I had the feeling I was taking part in a propaganda campaign orchestrated by the regime ... Both state and private media were transmitting false information, and anything that didn't match up was portrayed as foreign meddling or a conspiracy ... Our attempts to sell them [the public] a different story only added fuel to the fire. Instead of calming people down, we actually provoked the protesters to go further, fuelled their anger and reinforced a sense of shared hostility among the public ... There would be no mention of the crackdown.
It was as irresponsible as it was provocative to broadcast footage of cheering pro-regime rallies when on the other side of town, families of victims of the repression were burying their dead.It was as irresponsible as it was provocative to broadcast footage of cheering pro-regime rallies when on the other side of town, families of victims of the repression were burying their dead.
11.16am: @WomanfromYemen, whose tweets we quoted earlier, has written a blogpost discussing the Yemeni opposition's arguments for and against voting in today's one-candidate election. She writes:11.16am: @WomanfromYemen, whose tweets we quoted earlier, has written a blogpost discussing the Yemeni opposition's arguments for and against voting in today's one-candidate election. She writes:
I wholeheartedly believe that a political process is necessary and a transitional period is vital for peace and stability in Yemen, nevertheless this election is quite a disappointment for me ... do we really want to start a new Yemen with a flawed process?I wholeheartedly believe that a political process is necessary and a transitional period is vital for peace and stability in Yemen, nevertheless this election is quite a disappointment for me ... do we really want to start a new Yemen with a flawed process?
In short, I will not vote because I believe we deserve better. I believe in democracy, and I know this is not it. Elections are not democracy, they are just one component of a democratic process.In short, I will not vote because I believe we deserve better. I believe in democracy, and I know this is not it. Elections are not democracy, they are just one component of a democratic process.
The real moment of celebration for me will be when military restructuring, and judicial and constitutional reforms actually take place as a step towards independent institutions. Of course things will take time, but we need to remember what we went out to the street for: real systematic change not just Saleh's removal from power.The real moment of celebration for me will be when military restructuring, and judicial and constitutional reforms actually take place as a step towards independent institutions. Of course things will take time, but we need to remember what we went out to the street for: real systematic change not just Saleh's removal from power.
11.12am: A video posted online claims to show a demonstration outside the Air Force Intelligence base near Damascus last night. Air Force Intelligence, one of the most feared state agencies that has been involved in putting down protests against Bashar al-Assad, was attacked by the Free Syrian Army in November last year. .11.12am: A video posted online claims to show a demonstration outside the Air Force Intelligence base near Damascus last night. Air Force Intelligence, one of the most feared state agencies that has been involved in putting down protests against Bashar al-Assad, was attacked by the Free Syrian Army in November last year. .
AFP reports that the British-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights claimed security forces opened fire overnight to disperse a demonstration in Damascus:AFP reports that the British-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights claimed security forces opened fire overnight to disperse a demonstration in Damascus:
Security forces opened fire at demonstrators who took to the streets in the capital's Al-Hajar Al-Aswad neighbourhood, it said.Security forces opened fire at demonstrators who took to the streets in the capital's Al-Hajar Al-Aswad neighbourhood, it said.
Protesters during the night also blocked the roads leading to Baramkeh Square in the centre of the capital, according to Mohammed Shami, a spokesman for activists in Damascus province.Protesters during the night also blocked the roads leading to Baramkeh Square in the centre of the capital, according to Mohammed Shami, a spokesman for activists in Damascus province.
He said demonstrators used "burning materials" to shut the roads, triggering a security alert that saw "heavily armed forces" deployed in the area in few minutes.He said demonstrators used "burning materials" to shut the roads, triggering a security alert that saw "heavily armed forces" deployed in the area in few minutes.
The demonstrators were acting as part of a "campaign of civil disobedience in Damascus in support of Homs and afflicted Syrian cities," Shami said in a statement.The demonstrators were acting as part of a "campaign of civil disobedience in Damascus in support of Homs and afflicted Syrian cities," Shami said in a statement.
10.57am: Yemen election: as the saying goes – vote early, vote often.10.57am: Yemen election: as the saying goes – vote early, vote often.
Spoke to a 16 year-old who had voted and one man with two purple thumbs until he realised this was wrong and hid one.Spoke to a 16 year-old who had voted and one man with two purple thumbs until he realised this was wrong and hid one.
— Iona Craig (@ionacraig) February 21, 2012— Iona Craig (@ionacraig) February 21, 2012
10.29am: An interesting exercise in election monitoring is under way in Yemen. Members of the public are invited to report "any violations or suspicious activities" via SMS, Twitter or a special website. The Yemen Times says:10.29am: An interesting exercise in election monitoring is under way in Yemen. Members of the public are invited to report "any violations or suspicious activities" via SMS, Twitter or a special website. The Yemen Times says:
Each text message then goes to a committee that will investigate any alleged violations, such as the use of state-owned cars to transport voters, threatening and intimidating voters, or failing to check ID cards.Each text message then goes to a committee that will investigate any alleged violations, such as the use of state-owned cars to transport voters, threatening and intimidating voters, or failing to check ID cards.
All reports will be uploaded to an interactive map that will be on the project website, where people will be able to track the election.All reports will be uploaded to an interactive map that will be on the project website, where people will be able to track the election.
There are pictures here and here of the young people working on the project.There are pictures here and here of the young people working on the project.
In today's election, of course, any instances of cheating are not going to make a difference to the result. But putting the system to the test now could bring some benefits when Yemen gets around to holding elections that are more – shall we say – competitive.In today's election, of course, any instances of cheating are not going to make a difference to the result. But putting the system to the test now could bring some benefits when Yemen gets around to holding elections that are more – shall we say – competitive.
10.05am: The Syrian Revolution General Commission says 16 people have been killed by shelling in the Baba Amr district of Homs this morning, al-Arabiya reports. A Syrian activist on Twitter says more than 300 have been injured.10.05am: The Syrian Revolution General Commission says 16 people have been killed by shelling in the Baba Amr district of Homs this morning, al-Arabiya reports. A Syrian activist on Twitter says more than 300 have been injured.
Activist Nader al-Husseini told Reuters from Baba Amr: "The Free Syrian Army is not letting the army enter Baba Amr. It [the army] responded this morning by 130 mm artillery that hit the neighbourhood at random ... Several shells are falling each minute."

Two children were among the victims, he said. The reports cannot be independently confirmed but a video has been posted online purporting to be of a child killed by shrapnel wounds (warning: very graphic).		Activist Nader al-Husseini told Reuters from Baba Amr: "The Free Syrian Army is not letting the army enter Baba Amr. It [the army] responded this morning by 130 mm artillery that hit the neighbourhood at random ... Several shells are falling each minute."

Two children were among the victims, he said. The reports cannot be independently confirmed but a video has been posted online purporting to be of a child killed by shrapnel wounds (warning: very graphic).
The BBC's Jim Muir (in Beirut) said "the bombardment is the heaviest for some days, with several shells landing every minute".The BBC's Jim Muir (in Beirut) said "the bombardment is the heaviest for some days, with several shells landing every minute".
The video below claims to show shelling in Baba Amr this morning.The video below claims to show shelling in Baba Amr this morning.
Another purports to show the effects of the shelling:Another purports to show the effects of the shelling:
There has also been a livestream from Baba Amr this morning on Bambuser.There has also been a livestream from Baba Amr this morning on Bambuser.
9.51am: In Bahrain, the ever-entertaining Daily Tribune has some advice for the owners of pets: keep them away from teargas.9.51am: In Bahrain, the ever-entertaining Daily Tribune has some advice for the owners of pets: keep them away from teargas.
People living in areas where the gas is used to control riots, have been urged to keep their animals and birds indoors. The advice follows on the heels of pet owners voicing concerns about their pets' safety and questioning if tear gas could harm their pets.People living in areas where the gas is used to control riots, have been urged to keep their animals and birds indoors. The advice follows on the heels of pet owners voicing concerns about their pets' safety and questioning if tear gas could harm their pets.
The gas can be fatal for birds and it may cause serious complications in dogs. Cats though are better equipped as they perspire through their skins and can ventilate anything toxic that enters its body.The gas can be fatal for birds and it may cause serious complications in dogs. Cats though are better equipped as they perspire through their skins and can ventilate anything toxic that enters its body.
Dr Ahmed Al Ameer, a vet, said that keeping the animal or bird inside the home, especially in the presence of thick, fog-like tear gas, should be the first step in ensuring the well-being of a pet.Dr Ahmed Al Ameer, a vet, said that keeping the animal or bird inside the home, especially in the presence of thick, fog-like tear gas, should be the first step in ensuring the well-being of a pet.
9.41am: Following the electoral successes of religious parties in Egypt, controversy has erupted over whether police officers should be allowed to grow beards. The Egypt Independent reports:9.41am: Following the electoral successes of religious parties in Egypt, controversy has erupted over whether police officers should be allowed to grow beards. The Egypt Independent reports:
An Egyptian policeman has been suspended for allowing his beard to grow in violation of regulations, a security official said on Monday.An Egyptian policeman has been suspended for allowing his beard to grow in violation of regulations, a security official said on Monday.
Mohamed al-Sayyed will also face questioning over his beard, the sign of a religious Muslim ... The security source said Sayyed was not the first police officer to face disciplinary action for growing a beard.Mohamed al-Sayyed will also face questioning over his beard, the sign of a religious Muslim ... The security source said Sayyed was not the first police officer to face disciplinary action for growing a beard.
Interior Minister Mohamed Ibrahim warned on Monday during a visit to Upper Egypt that policemen who insisted on letting their beards grow would be suspended and may also be subject to further disciplinary action.Interior Minister Mohamed Ibrahim warned on Monday during a visit to Upper Egypt that policemen who insisted on letting their beards grow would be suspended and may also be subject to further disciplinary action.
Al-Arabiyya reports the formation of a Facebook group called "I am a bearded police officer", adding that it is "stirring much controversy over the right to a religious appearance in the workplace."Al-Arabiyya reports the formation of a Facebook group called "I am a bearded police officer", adding that it is "stirring much controversy over the right to a religious appearance in the workplace."
The group's spokesman, Captain Hani al-Shakeri, is quoted as saying:The group's spokesman, Captain Hani al-Shakeri, is quoted as saying:
I know that many Egyptians are keen to see police officers in Egypt grow their beards and follow the example of their prophet.I know that many Egyptians are keen to see police officers in Egypt grow their beards and follow the example of their prophet.
9.27am: Russia's foreign ministry has taken to Twitter to urge the UN to send a special envoy to Syria.9.27am: Russia's foreign ministry has taken to Twitter to urge the UN to send a special envoy to Syria.
Russia proposes that the SC call on the UN Sec-Gen to send a special envoy to Syria to coordinate security issues, humanitarian aid deliveryRussia proposes that the SC call on the UN Sec-Gen to send a special envoy to Syria to coordinate security issues, humanitarian aid delivery
— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012
Russia has been subjected to strong condemnation from the west for – along with China – vetoing two UN security council resolutions aimed at putting pressure on the Assad regime to halt the bloodshed in Syria.Russia has been subjected to strong condemnation from the west for – along with China – vetoing two UN security council resolutions aimed at putting pressure on the Assad regime to halt the bloodshed in Syria.
The foreign ministry also quoted spokesman Alexander Lukashevich as saying Russia would not participate in the planned "friends of Syria" in Tunisia at the end of the week, noting that no members of the Syrian government have been invited and accusing participants of assembling an "international coalition".The foreign ministry also quoted spokesman Alexander Lukashevich as saying Russia would not participate in the planned "friends of Syria" in Tunisia at the end of the week, noting that no members of the Syrian government have been invited and accusing participants of assembling an "international coalition".
Alexander #Lukashevich: Russia does not believe it possible for it to participate in the Friends of #Syria meeting in #TunisiaAlexander #Lukashevich: Russia does not believe it possible for it to participate in the Friends of #Syria meeting in #Tunisia
— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012
Alexander #Lukashevich on the Friends of #Syria meeting: Its real agenda is not clear. No members of the Syrian government have been invitedAlexander #Lukashevich on the Friends of #Syria meeting: Its real agenda is not clear. No members of the Syrian government have been invited
— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012
Alexander #Lukashevich on the Friends of #Syria meeting: It seems that an international coalition is being knocked togetherAlexander #Lukashevich on the Friends of #Syria meeting: It seems that an international coalition is being knocked together
— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012— MFA Russia (@MFA_Russia) February 21, 2012
On Monday Russia's UN ambassador Vitaly Churkin said the world body should help solve humanitarian issues in Syria, after Syria allowed the Red Cross to bring humanitarian aid to some regions.On Monday Russia's UN ambassador Vitaly Churkin said the world body should help solve humanitarian issues in Syria, after Syria allowed the Red Cross to bring humanitarian aid to some regions.
9.22am: Vice-President Hadi voted early – presumably for himself. AP says he cast his ballot at a hastily improvised polling station near his home in the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, after a bomb threat forced the authorities to shut the centre where he was supposed to vote.9.22am: Vice-President Hadi voted early – presumably for himself. AP says he cast his ballot at a hastily improvised polling station near his home in the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, after a bomb threat forced the authorities to shut the centre where he was supposed to vote.
There are conflicting accounts of the level of female participation. @tomfinn2 tweets:There are conflicting accounts of the level of female participation. @tomfinn2 tweets:
Where I'm at there's about one female voter to every 15 men.Where I'm at there's about one female voter to every 15 men.
On the other hand, @helenamerriman (of the BBC) tweets:On the other hand, @helenamerriman (of the BBC) tweets:
The polling station we're at in Sanaa has many more women voting than men. They say they are hoping for a new Yemen.The polling station we're at in Sanaa has many more women voting than men. They say they are hoping for a new Yemen.
9.07am: @WomanfromYemen tweets that many southerners are boycotting the election because they see it as representing a vote for Yemen's continued "unity". There is strong separatist sentiment in the south, which was an independent state before 1990.9.07am: @WomanfromYemen tweets that many southerners are boycotting the election because they see it as representing a vote for Yemen's continued "unity". There is strong separatist sentiment in the south, which was an independent state before 1990.
According to @imothanaYemen, almost no one seems to be voting in the southern city of Aden. Here is a picture said to show deserted streets in the Ma'alla district this morning.According to @imothanaYemen, almost no one seems to be voting in the southern city of Aden. Here is a picture said to show deserted streets in the Ma'alla district this morning.
There are some unconfirmed reports of violence in the south. More details when they become available.There are some unconfirmed reports of violence in the south. More details when they become available.
8.54am: Voting seems to have got off to a brisk start in Yemen's capital, Sana'a. However, some voters are boycotting because there is only one candidate. There are also some grumbles about the $48m cost of the election, given that the result is a foregone conclusion.8.54am: Voting seems to have got off to a brisk start in Yemen's capital, Sana'a. However, some voters are boycotting because there is only one candidate. There are also some grumbles about the $48m cost of the election, given that the result is a foregone conclusion.
Here are a few of today's tweets:Here are a few of today's tweets:
i think we can start calling Hadi, Mr. President. we dont really have to wait until the votes are counted. #yemeni think we can start calling Hadi, Mr. President. we dont really have to wait until the votes are counted. #yemen
— Atiaf Alwazir (@WomanfromYemen) February 21, 2012— Atiaf Alwazir (@WomanfromYemen) February 21, 2012
#Yemen Elections: there's no minimum turnout for the vote to be valid. If only one person turns out to vote for him #Hadi will still win!#Yemen Elections: there's no minimum turnout for the vote to be valid. If only one person turns out to vote for him #Hadi will still win!
— Rose Marie(@rosemarie1570) February 21, 2012— Rose Marie(@rosemarie1570) February 21, 2012
Polling station in Sanaa busy, near-jovial, women here too, lots of talk of building a new #Yemen.Polling station in Sanaa busy, near-jovial, women here too, lots of talk of building a new #Yemen.
— tom finn (@tomfinn2) February 21, 2012— tom finn (@tomfinn2) February 21, 2012
48million US dollars for an election between a man and his shadow would feed a lot of starving people in #Yemen #Carryonstarving @NoonArabia48million US dollars for an election between a man and his shadow would feed a lot of starving people in #Yemen #Carryonstarving @NoonArabia
— Anthony Carpenter (@Carpe177) February 21, 2012— Anthony Carpenter (@Carpe177) February 21, 2012
8.37am: (all times GMT) Welcome to Middle East Live. Here is a roundup of the situation this morning:8.37am: (all times GMT) Welcome to Middle East Live. Here is a roundup of the situation this morning:
YemenYemen
• Yemenis have begun voting for their new president this morning. The result is a foregone conclusion, since Vice-President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi is the only candidate.• Yemenis have begun voting for their new president this morning. The result is a foregone conclusion, since Vice-President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi is the only candidate.
SyriaSyria
• Syrian forces opened fire with live ammunition on demonstrators in Damascus overnight as unrest continued to spread in the capital. At least least four people were wounded, according to activists.• Syrian forces opened fire with live ammunition on demonstrators in Damascus overnight as unrest continued to spread in the capital. At least least four people were wounded, according to activists.
• Russia says it will not attend this week's international conference in Tunis aimed at seeking political change in Syria. In a statement quoted by AFP, the foreign ministry said the meeting had been called "for the purpose of supporting one side against another in an internal conflict".• Russia says it will not attend this week's international conference in Tunis aimed at seeking political change in Syria. In a statement quoted by AFP, the foreign ministry said the meeting had been called "for the purpose of supporting one side against another in an internal conflict".
• The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says it is negotiating with Syrian authorities and opposition fighters for a temporary ceasefire to bring life-saving aid to civilians hardest hit by the conflict.• The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says it is negotiating with Syrian authorities and opposition fighters for a temporary ceasefire to bring life-saving aid to civilians hardest hit by the conflict.