Waiting

Driving around the city a couple days ago, we drove right by a woman sitting in the middle of the road, asking passers by for money. On the way back, she was gone, but this boy was in her place. I can only assume he was under her burkha. This is a familiar sight in the city and often the woman will be holding a baby. Sorry for the quality of the photos, they were taken through a dirty window while speeding past.

As for the elections, there have been no significant incidents reported in the City and surrounding areas. It seems that heightened security measures are paying dividends. However, it is expected that as soon as the preliminary election results are published, supporters of Dr. Abdullah (the main opposition candidate) might take to the streets to protest on what they perceive as massive election fraud. Dr Abdullah and other candidates have publicly accused incumbent President Karzai and his camp of widespread fraud. Possible violent protest demonstrations are possible.

The start of “Ramadan” (Islamic month of fasting) may also have a significant impact on security countrywide. During Ramadan which started on 22 August 2009, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset in a spiritual exercise that teaches discipline, self-restraint and generosity. They also pray for forgiveness for past sins, guidance and try to purify themselves through self restraint and good deeds. However, in Muslim tradition it is also perceived as a month of jihad, a month in which Allah grants military victories to his believers," says a report by the Washington-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI).

This is your eye in the sky reporter, Gern Blanston, coming to you live from Afghanistan.