Saturday 21 February 2009

On Morocco Algeria border

Phone signal very sporadic. I'm fine. On Morocco Algeria border. First time open for 17 years. Just for us. Yesterday we had a fantastic reception at a socialist MP house and later that night a banquet in Oujda thrown by the greatest Islamic scholar in Morocco. Big rift in convoy today when some radical unruly elements were nearly sent home. A rebellion was finally successful when a third of the convoy refused to move from the Moroccan border unless everyone was let through. Time will tell whether that was the right decision. An Algerian MP has sent food to the border because we have been stuck at passport control for at least 9 hours. They have also promised free fuel tonight. Where we will sleep, when we can leave, how much longer its going to take or how many hours we have to drive are all unknowns.

We broke down yesterday. Dirty diseal blocked the fuel pumps. Had to get towed to a garage fixed it and then refused money because it was for Gaza. We gave them Gaelic football shirts instead. Great affection from Moroccan people. People lined the streets, schools let the kids out to wave up past. The convoy is troublesome. So many personal agendas besides the objective me taking aid to Gaza. We all need reminding that that is why people are lining the streets.

3 comments:

  1. Good to see you have my name on your truck!!

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  2. Greg, we too are hooked on your blogs. Such fantastic writing.

    What is depicted is that at times it's hard, but morale is good. Truly the inside scoop. Lovely to hear that the North African countries are welcoming (although, somewhat dodgy at times). Cant wait to have a pint and hear about what the greatest Islamic scholar in Morocco had to say for himself! Loads of well wishes coming to you both from a fragile pair of post Friday night heads here in Baile Atha Cliath (Dublin)!

    Viva la Palestina.

    Anne & Enda xxxxxxx

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  3. I love this blog.I think this site will do better in future.

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    ReplyDelete