Just removed the blog feeds function. Wanna go back to the old style of blogging which I enjoyed a few years back. Kinda want this blog to be more a personal log like thingy.
Been away from blogging since I've been too busy lately with work and other stuff. There are new stuff that I am experimenting around with wanna make logs of them here as I get time.
Moved back to male' after almost 2 years, so hope I can be more social and can take up new projects outside normal office work.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Thursday, August 09, 2007
What do we get?
We have been debating and fighting over political issues; like what kinda of system we will have, the injustice, etc. Hardly we talk about the social benefits we the people should have and get. Hardly this question is ever asked by anyone or answered. Mostly its just "Golhaaboa". All focus is given on that word.
I think now it might be the right time for one to question things like social welfare and other related issues. Starting from things like how the state taxes the people, be it a flat tax, regressive tax or a progressive tax system, and should the higher earners be taxed to a greater extent? The amount of taxation is also crucial, as lower tax rates can be more business friendly, generating jobs and reducing unemployment, whereas higher taxes can be used to fund public services, state pensions and unemployment benefits.
Other key issues like how the state implements benefits for the unemployed, pensions, maternity leave and disabilities. Other issues like should services such as health care can be almost entirely state funded at one extreme, private insurance-based on the other, or somewhere in between? Another element can be public transport and education. I guess education is a key element which needs real attention.
One of the great challenges of sustainable development is to combine society's desires for economic prosperity and social security. For decades economists and politicians have debated how to reconcile the undoubted power of markets with the reassuring protections of social insurance. Presently we the Maldivians hardly demand anything from the governments till today social benefits provided by the state is seen something more like "sarukaaruge haasa inaayah" or "raees ge hey yofulhukan". Question is will it remain the same; even after the so called political reforms. What will the people gain after all these flights and struggle? At the end will all the benefits end up in bank accounts of the parliamentarians or the president and a few privileged, like it has been.
I feel these are not questions that should be left out or ignored saying I don't want to be political, etc. These are basic rights of everyone to know about them and to have those rights.
I think now it might be the right time for one to question things like social welfare and other related issues. Starting from things like how the state taxes the people, be it a flat tax, regressive tax or a progressive tax system, and should the higher earners be taxed to a greater extent? The amount of taxation is also crucial, as lower tax rates can be more business friendly, generating jobs and reducing unemployment, whereas higher taxes can be used to fund public services, state pensions and unemployment benefits.
Other key issues like how the state implements benefits for the unemployed, pensions, maternity leave and disabilities. Other issues like should services such as health care can be almost entirely state funded at one extreme, private insurance-based on the other, or somewhere in between? Another element can be public transport and education. I guess education is a key element which needs real attention.
One of the great challenges of sustainable development is to combine society's desires for economic prosperity and social security. For decades economists and politicians have debated how to reconcile the undoubted power of markets with the reassuring protections of social insurance. Presently we the Maldivians hardly demand anything from the governments till today social benefits provided by the state is seen something more like "sarukaaruge haasa inaayah" or "raees ge hey yofulhukan". Question is will it remain the same; even after the so called political reforms. What will the people gain after all these flights and struggle? At the end will all the benefits end up in bank accounts of the parliamentarians or the president and a few privileged, like it has been.
I feel these are not questions that should be left out or ignored saying I don't want to be political, etc. These are basic rights of everyone to know about them and to have those rights.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
4th August 2007
My conclusion from the event on 4th August 2007 is simply 'NO hope'. I waited there for long with a friend; after the end of the saga. I talked to a lot of people there; friends and just fellow country men. I realized that only about 5% of the people I talked to cared about what system we will have in Maldives. I feel this is mainly because they do not have the information on the effects such a system will have on them and the future of their children.
Everyone knew the names of the 'Nizaams' (Systems). Most very strongly knew the system they were standing up for. The no.1 reason on both sides was the party which the individual supports; supports a particular system or just standing up against the system which the other party supports. Some has very clearly stated this. I can fully understand their arguments on one aspect but I wonder; if they are really doing the right thing? We can't really blame the individuals on these views. We have not had a very good or any kinda proper political system to date and people are not aware of these or educated on these issues. Every one talks political; go to a caffe or even inside homes; people talk about the injustice, corruptions and other issues; but hardly people talk about what we need as far as a positive change is concerned. The solution I feel is not electing a particular party; or over throwing another. I agree it matters to certain level; but there are other more important priorities first; like implementing a system; which reduces corruption, dictatorship and what will more likely work in Maldives where people will have a better life as humans.
The planned debate ended up in a big drama; after the end there was more drama. Conclusions where being made same old words were being said; people where enjoying the drama. It was a sad thing to see; I felt bad to know that most people did not care at all. Back early 1990's the biggest entertainment was a show held very often in male' called 'galaxy' now the name of the show is changed to 'politics'. Point being for most this is just a pass time and a matter of entertainment for the rest its about power and 'my group'.
To conclude; I simply felt there is no good future politically for Maldives in a near future. Things will remain very much the same or will get worse; I know most will stand up against me on this statement but this is my view. My biggest fear is the 2008 elections; I don't want to see blood shed or a civil flights. It will be our brothers and sisters who will loose I know some are looking forward to this drama; but I don't support it. I am totally against this, but I know this might be inevitable.
Everyone knew the names of the 'Nizaams' (Systems). Most very strongly knew the system they were standing up for. The no.1 reason on both sides was the party which the individual supports; supports a particular system or just standing up against the system which the other party supports. Some has very clearly stated this. I can fully understand their arguments on one aspect but I wonder; if they are really doing the right thing? We can't really blame the individuals on these views. We have not had a very good or any kinda proper political system to date and people are not aware of these or educated on these issues. Every one talks political; go to a caffe or even inside homes; people talk about the injustice, corruptions and other issues; but hardly people talk about what we need as far as a positive change is concerned. The solution I feel is not electing a particular party; or over throwing another. I agree it matters to certain level; but there are other more important priorities first; like implementing a system; which reduces corruption, dictatorship and what will more likely work in Maldives where people will have a better life as humans.
The planned debate ended up in a big drama; after the end there was more drama. Conclusions where being made same old words were being said; people where enjoying the drama. It was a sad thing to see; I felt bad to know that most people did not care at all. Back early 1990's the biggest entertainment was a show held very often in male' called 'galaxy' now the name of the show is changed to 'politics'. Point being for most this is just a pass time and a matter of entertainment for the rest its about power and 'my group'.
To conclude; I simply felt there is no good future politically for Maldives in a near future. Things will remain very much the same or will get worse; I know most will stand up against me on this statement but this is my view. My biggest fear is the 2008 elections; I don't want to see blood shed or a civil flights. It will be our brothers and sisters who will loose I know some are looking forward to this drama; but I don't support it. I am totally against this, but I know this might be inevitable.
Friday, August 03, 2007
First the people, then Maumoon. Please!
We all know that MDP has been having a major fight against Maumoon since it was formed. This has lead to some very good reforms. I use to think the flight was for the people. The talks was so; and some of the action too. We all have to admit the fact that the change we see today; should mostly be credited to MDP and the individuals who supported this change.
Today; I am very disappointed on MDP. For the current referendum where we get the chance to decide which system is best; it looks like MDP is not putting its priorities for what is best for people. Rather it seems MDP is trying to test its popularity among the people by supporting against Maumoon. Not considering what is right and wrong. I feel this should not be the case. The people are mislead now, by the actions of MDP. Most of us has trusted MDP for this change and will continue to, but when they are wrong it is also our responsibility to voice out our concerns. It should not be 'eylhi haa batha kah riha' be it Maumoon or even MDP.
MDP has voiced comments like "because Gayoom is supporting Presidential System"; when asked why they are supporting a parliamentarian system. I feel this should not be the reason. Also there is comments by some of MDP supporters like "if qayoom and his supporters loose it shows that MDP is stronger than all 3 parties put together..". This is not an election, its a vote we decide on the system we will be adopting. I think the vote for who will get be the president or for the parliament is yet to come , but this is not that time now. Other such comments by supporters been things like "THIS REFERENDUM is the only FORECAST for us on the 2008 elections. if we want this dictator to be overthrown we need to make sure that the barulamaanee (MDP) wins."
So I guess we need to understand that this is not the time for elections or a test vote. This is more serious then that; and more important. The leaders will fall; the people will die off soon, but the system that we decide on is highly like to stay for a long time. So which is most important; fight against Maumoon or to support which is good for the future of the people? Is it your own personal choice; mine is very clear, in this vote; I will stand up for which system is best for the people of the Maldives, regardless of what system Maumoon or MDP supports. This is not about them at all.
Today; I am very disappointed on MDP. For the current referendum where we get the chance to decide which system is best; it looks like MDP is not putting its priorities for what is best for people. Rather it seems MDP is trying to test its popularity among the people by supporting against Maumoon. Not considering what is right and wrong. I feel this should not be the case. The people are mislead now, by the actions of MDP. Most of us has trusted MDP for this change and will continue to, but when they are wrong it is also our responsibility to voice out our concerns. It should not be 'eylhi haa batha kah riha' be it Maumoon or even MDP.
MDP has voiced comments like "because Gayoom is supporting Presidential System"; when asked why they are supporting a parliamentarian system. I feel this should not be the reason. Also there is comments by some of MDP supporters like "if qayoom and his supporters loose it shows that MDP is stronger than all 3 parties put together..". This is not an election, its a vote we decide on the system we will be adopting. I think the vote for who will get be the president or for the parliament is yet to come , but this is not that time now. Other such comments by supporters been things like "THIS REFERENDUM is the only FORECAST for us on the 2008 elections. if we want this dictator to be overthrown we need to make sure that the barulamaanee (MDP) wins."
So I guess we need to understand that this is not the time for elections or a test vote. This is more serious then that; and more important. The leaders will fall; the people will die off soon, but the system that we decide on is highly like to stay for a long time. So which is most important; fight against Maumoon or to support which is good for the future of the people? Is it your own personal choice; mine is very clear, in this vote; I will stand up for which system is best for the people of the Maldives, regardless of what system Maumoon or MDP supports. This is not about them at all.
Monday, July 30, 2007
MDP singing a new song now
Since the start of the current political reform process, MDP has been advocating towards a presidential system in Maldives. Clearly shouting out for separation of powers in the country. Now the song has changed. Why? I think MDP should be very clear why they took this stand. So in future any thing that MDP stands up for might change for the "benefit of the party"? These are all questions that should be answered without excuses.
following is from http://www.minivannews.com/news/news.php?id=1397
More links
Anni on Why Maldives Needs Separation of Powers
Separation of Powers in Maldives
Democracy in the Maldives: Fact or Fiction?
Maldives situation `worsening'
All of the above links states clearly that MDP took a stand for separtion of powers in Maldives.
following is from http://www.minivannews.com/news/news.php?id=1397
MDP is willing to accept the reform package proposed by President Gayoom in June 2004 provided that it includes a clear set of outcomes with a mutually agreed timetable.
MDP requests the government to open multi party talks on the reform package and to follow an inclusive process for further developing the reform agenda. We expect such an agenda to include critical milestones such as creation of an independent media, an independent election commission, a revision of electoral laws, constitutional amendments on multi party system and separation of powers, and a provision for early elections. All these reforms must conform to internationally acceptable standards and should not be subject to arbitrary executive interpretations.
Constitutional reform must result in the separation of powers, especially clear separation of the Judiciary from the Executive. Similarly, judicial and penal system reforms are urgently needed to conform to the Constitution and international practice.
More links
Anni on Why Maldives Needs Separation of Powers
Separation of Powers in Maldives
Democracy in the Maldives: Fact or Fiction?
Maldives situation `worsening'
All of the above links states clearly that MDP took a stand for separtion of powers in Maldives.
Friday, July 27, 2007
I Vote for Separation of Powers.
A lot of hype and debates recently on what system we should vote for. As far as I am concerned I will vote for a system which will have separation of powers; as in a presidential system. I would not want one party to dominate almost everything about the system. I would not want to place cabinet ministers in the parliament. I would want to be able to vote for the leader of the nation and I would want that leader to have 2 terms of 4 years or just one term of 5 years. I want a system where the minority party has a say in the governance and legislation. I want a system where the people as a nation has the power to choose; not the people of a particular party only.
And I strongly don't want to go for a system blindly; just cos some people tell me this is the only way to get rid of a dictator. I feel this is not about choosing a leader its about a choice we make about the future of our nation. Its not about a personnel flight that the parties been having for the last two or three years. Its about making a choice; which will be the best system for Maldives; not UK , India or Japan. We are talking about Maldives here and its future. Its not an election where we get to choose who gets to lead. If thats the impression some are having; I ask and request them to wake up. This is about selecting a system. So choose after thinking and researching. Choose what you feel is best for you. Not because I or DRP or MDP says so. You make your choice. That is your right. Don't let others influence you because they have other objectives to achieve.
As a moral and social obligation the parties must educate the people on the systems. Which has not happened. Mostly what we have seen so far; was just parties trying to promote which systems they want to go for. Never educating the people of the advantages and disadvantages of both the systems. Its sad to know the people we trusted and thought were the heroes of our nation has turned out to be just immoral 'business men' only.
If you still need further readings below are some links that might help.
PRESIDENTIAL VS. PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT
Governing Systems and Executive-Legislative Relations(Presidential, Parliamentary and Hybrid Systems)
And I strongly don't want to go for a system blindly; just cos some people tell me this is the only way to get rid of a dictator. I feel this is not about choosing a leader its about a choice we make about the future of our nation. Its not about a personnel flight that the parties been having for the last two or three years. Its about making a choice; which will be the best system for Maldives; not UK , India or Japan. We are talking about Maldives here and its future. Its not an election where we get to choose who gets to lead. If thats the impression some are having; I ask and request them to wake up. This is about selecting a system. So choose after thinking and researching. Choose what you feel is best for you. Not because I or DRP or MDP says so. You make your choice. That is your right. Don't let others influence you because they have other objectives to achieve.
As a moral and social obligation the parties must educate the people on the systems. Which has not happened. Mostly what we have seen so far; was just parties trying to promote which systems they want to go for. Never educating the people of the advantages and disadvantages of both the systems. Its sad to know the people we trusted and thought were the heroes of our nation has turned out to be just immoral 'business men' only.
If you still need further readings below are some links that might help.
PRESIDENTIAL VS. PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT
Governing Systems and Executive-Legislative Relations(Presidential, Parliamentary and Hybrid Systems)
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Last days of the Old Republic
Darth Vader, Dark Lord of the Sith, helped the Emperor hunt down and exterminate the Jedi Knights during the last days of the Old Republic and the opening moments of the Empire. Later, he was sent to help Governor Tarkin develop the original Death Star battle station. Once the Rebellion demonstrated that it posed a significant threat to the New Order, Lord Vader was put in charge of the Imperial fleet assigned to find and destroy the Alliance leaders.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Neo is the one: the first freed phone.
Since early this year I have been waiting for openmoko, the first world open source phone. Its out and looks promising. I guess its not the ideal phone for most average users, but I guess this is what I would go for. Maybe the iphone is nice to have, but lets see.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Heaven
... and there was... he/she .. always was, is, will be.. ok. then comes haven, maybe angels, satan, then adam and eve. then the apple tree. don't know when earth was created, before or after those events? ... anyway banished to earth.. then religion, then more conflicting religion, then flights, killing more killing and flights.. then the end? ok not the end in real... finally haven or hell (when was it created, no idea of time lines). based on the selection and luck and some other factors we daa, end up in haven or hell.. or .. or hell, then haven.. then.. back to there was... is, and will be.. its as simple as that, so which part is confusing ?
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Good artists create... Great artists steal.
"Well, Steve, I think there's more than one way of looking at it. I think it's more like we both had this rich neighbor named Xerox and I broke into his house to steal the TV set and found out that you had already stolen it." -- by Bill Gates.
Read the full article
Movie titled pirates of the silicon valley
Read the full article
Movie titled pirates of the silicon valley
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Friday, June 22, 2007
The Sea
Captain's Log, Stardate 23847.7232. "You see the sea, to see the sea, but all you see is the sea". End Log.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
His Noodliness
Captain's Log, Stardate 2020.0139. Same day, while cruising through the vast empty space. I had encounters with the his noodly appendage (also known as the Flying Spaghetti Monster!) and has been touched by his noodliness. Now I am a Pastafarian. End Log.
Sholey
Captain's Log, Stardate 0101.0240. There is nothing more exciting (maybe its Basanti) then watching sholay on the viewscreen for i am as old as sholey. End Log.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Black Box
Captain's Log, Stardate 0904.0106. New black box just arrived on dock. Setting shields up, red alert. Course 399 mark 4 warp 9. End Log.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Saturday, June 09, 2007
OS cocktail
Lately since I moved from IT, I've been on Windows as I do no longer need to do any direct development work or alike. Presently my main job is to research on mobile services and products, design and implement them (along with the technical teams, but no technical work on my side). More or less its project management kinda work, so Windows is the obvious choice plus its company policy that all be under the Windows domain and I should not be an exception.
After almost 4 months of Windows at work experience, here is what I have to say. Nothing like MS Word, Excel and Visio. I guess this is the reason why Microsoft is still making money. Its not the OS. Never try anything (software) you do not trust. Just keep the usual stuff in your machine. With Windows you should always know that you are on Windows and at any time, anything can go wrong. Save and backup work as often as you can. This has helped me to keep away from problems and get the job done.
Anyway being a unix guy still inside forced to use Windows. So some how, secretly I managed to get Cygwin installed on my machine. Having it installed makes you always feel at home, you have all the usual unix tools available on Windows. If you are a developer, I guess Cygwin is the ideal tool. Its a good experience now, Mac OS and Linux at home, and Windows at work. Each fits in where it should.
After almost 4 months of Windows at work experience, here is what I have to say. Nothing like MS Word, Excel and Visio. I guess this is the reason why Microsoft is still making money. Its not the OS. Never try anything (software) you do not trust. Just keep the usual stuff in your machine. With Windows you should always know that you are on Windows and at any time, anything can go wrong. Save and backup work as often as you can. This has helped me to keep away from problems and get the job done.
Anyway being a unix guy still inside forced to use Windows. So some how, secretly I managed to get Cygwin installed on my machine. Having it installed makes you always feel at home, you have all the usual unix tools available on Windows. If you are a developer, I guess Cygwin is the ideal tool. Its a good experience now, Mac OS and Linux at home, and Windows at work. Each fits in where it should.
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