Saturday, 8 May 2010
ARIS MAKRIDES’ TEXT FROM PRISON
The first day in the cell, still waiting to be judged at court, I started contemplating where my actions up until then had been leading me. The prospect of one day being convicted, of being closed up in that place for years on end, seemed scary. And what had my actions managed to change? Had the world improved, even a little? So I was thinking whether I should and, if so, in what way I should change my attitude so as to avoid such a terrible conviction in the future. What should I omit, what should I do less of?
But what had I done until then? I had hardly done anything. I disseminated pamphlets in interventions, I put up posters, I wrote a slogan on a wall now and again and I participated in demonstrations, where, at least within the space controlled by the Cyprus State, I used no sort of violence whatsoever. Not that I am against violence when it is aimed towards those that exploit others, towards social criminals and the puppets who protect them. It’s just that the conditions were such that I hadn’t had the opportunity to use violence except clearly for self-defense. Any anti-authoritarian anarchist in any country where there is a serious anarchist movement would call the kind of action which I had taken at least flimsy, if not frivolous action that only suits reformists. Nevertheless, despite this I found myself accused with serious false accusations and I have ended up in prison. So what’s left for me to change? Primarily two things:
One is the very content of texts and slogans. Those that until then turned against authority, the state, capitalism, the system.
The second is my attitude when a figure of power is trying to impose on me, even when s/he holds in contempt the laws which s/he is supposed to uphold, which is the usual case. In other words, I should remain silent and accept his/her authority. So I imagined my life under these terms. To compromise, obey the system, consent to crimes with my silence. Not to be anti-authoritarian but to pretend that I can fight “in other ways”. To suck up to the cop when s/he approaches me, lest he finds a pretext to arrest and accuse me. What’s left to change? To become subjugated. There is no middle ground, since I believe that I don’t believe that you can change the system with the means that itself has to offer. In such a case I would have to be consciously subjugated because I could not fool myself about this. Every trace of freedom I had would have vanished. I would be imprisoned, even if I could walk freely in the streets.
So then I compared the two prisons: the one which I found myself in and the one which compromise would lead me to. I found the second one unbearably awful; much worse than the first. So I preferred the first one. From that moment onwards I knew what I should do. I would take things as far as they would go.
A bit later, a warder came and announced to me that I had been assigned to do chores. I refused. I knew that that would lead me to the isolation cell. I was even warned about that. The isolation was postponed, in the end, because the next day I would be led to court for the announcement of my sentence. I decided that if I was sentenced to prison, I would go on hunger strike. Indeed, I was sentenced to 15 days in prison. It was less than what I had expected. But I thought I’d go on hunger strike, even symbolically, for those two weeks.
Hunger strike in central State prison [of Cyprus] constitutes an offence. So after all my personal belongings were removed from me, save for the clothes that I was wearing, I was led to isolation. I had thought upon isolation as something horrible. To be constantly confined to a space of 2,5 x 2 metres, with nothing to do and, in my case, with no food,to sleep next to the crapper.
But there a surprise awaited me: I felt free! In isolation the legal authority of the system stops, it is the prison within the prison. No other penalty can be imposed on you. You can be undisciplined, swear at the warders, refuse to obey to any other order and they can’t do anything to you. You are confined, but you’re free!
Today is 28 July, a week in prison, sixth day in isolation. Today I got a message of solidarity. I was informed about what is happening outside. There is nothing that gives more strength to a political detainee than to know s/he is not alone. The first time I heard about the power of support was from the comrade George Karakasian, with the message he sent from prison. But back then I could not grasp its meaning. I just thought those were typical words that are usually written under such circumstances. I had to go through a cell myself to realise what it means, when I was held up for 24 hours in Limassol. Now I discover it all over again and the message is even more powerful, because I see my comrades unite again for a common cause, and with them also people that are politically aware. A movement is finally being formed. And it becomes even more powerful, because we are no longer segregated into Turks and Greeks, to Kurds and whatever else. We’ve broken the artificial segregations that they imposed upon us. Their racism does not touch us, their borders do not concern us.
Today I am happy, I am strong. The warders see that. They know that they no longer have any weapon against me and they’re not even trying to impose on me. They are completely relaxed. They kindly ask me if I want (!!) them to let me out in order to do something I want and upon my refusal, they leave without a second thought. Yesterday they allowed me to have a book, a note pad and a pencil. These are a whole fortune in here, but I can do without them.
Closing, I would like to say the following: from the moment I joined the anarchist movement, the State has never stopped giving me political lessons. It taught me to hate its authority through unjustified arrests, beatings, false accusations. It taught me to scorn its institutions through pre-arranged and unreasonable trials, whether mine or my comrades’. It taught me to doubt the “information” it provides us with, after the cruel war by the media, which constantly speak against us, with no interest in the truth (save for very few exceptions). It taught me to hate it, for its participation in crimes against humanity. It taught me who the real enemies and who my friends are. It taught me the power of solidarity.
Today it gives me one more lesson: that the worst prison that exists is subjugation, that real freedom belongs only to the revolutionists. It even taught me to believe in something that had previously seemed metaphysical, that:
THE PASSION FOR FREEDOM IS STRONGER THAN ALL CELLS
But what had I done until then? I had hardly done anything. I disseminated pamphlets in interventions, I put up posters, I wrote a slogan on a wall now and again and I participated in demonstrations, where, at least within the space controlled by the Cyprus State, I used no sort of violence whatsoever. Not that I am against violence when it is aimed towards those that exploit others, towards social criminals and the puppets who protect them. It’s just that the conditions were such that I hadn’t had the opportunity to use violence except clearly for self-defense. Any anti-authoritarian anarchist in any country where there is a serious anarchist movement would call the kind of action which I had taken at least flimsy, if not frivolous action that only suits reformists. Nevertheless, despite this I found myself accused with serious false accusations and I have ended up in prison. So what’s left for me to change? Primarily two things:
One is the very content of texts and slogans. Those that until then turned against authority, the state, capitalism, the system.
The second is my attitude when a figure of power is trying to impose on me, even when s/he holds in contempt the laws which s/he is supposed to uphold, which is the usual case. In other words, I should remain silent and accept his/her authority. So I imagined my life under these terms. To compromise, obey the system, consent to crimes with my silence. Not to be anti-authoritarian but to pretend that I can fight “in other ways”. To suck up to the cop when s/he approaches me, lest he finds a pretext to arrest and accuse me. What’s left to change? To become subjugated. There is no middle ground, since I believe that I don’t believe that you can change the system with the means that itself has to offer. In such a case I would have to be consciously subjugated because I could not fool myself about this. Every trace of freedom I had would have vanished. I would be imprisoned, even if I could walk freely in the streets.
So then I compared the two prisons: the one which I found myself in and the one which compromise would lead me to. I found the second one unbearably awful; much worse than the first. So I preferred the first one. From that moment onwards I knew what I should do. I would take things as far as they would go.
A bit later, a warder came and announced to me that I had been assigned to do chores. I refused. I knew that that would lead me to the isolation cell. I was even warned about that. The isolation was postponed, in the end, because the next day I would be led to court for the announcement of my sentence. I decided that if I was sentenced to prison, I would go on hunger strike. Indeed, I was sentenced to 15 days in prison. It was less than what I had expected. But I thought I’d go on hunger strike, even symbolically, for those two weeks.
Hunger strike in central State prison [of Cyprus] constitutes an offence. So after all my personal belongings were removed from me, save for the clothes that I was wearing, I was led to isolation. I had thought upon isolation as something horrible. To be constantly confined to a space of 2,5 x 2 metres, with nothing to do and, in my case, with no food,to sleep next to the crapper.
But there a surprise awaited me: I felt free! In isolation the legal authority of the system stops, it is the prison within the prison. No other penalty can be imposed on you. You can be undisciplined, swear at the warders, refuse to obey to any other order and they can’t do anything to you. You are confined, but you’re free!
Today is 28 July, a week in prison, sixth day in isolation. Today I got a message of solidarity. I was informed about what is happening outside. There is nothing that gives more strength to a political detainee than to know s/he is not alone. The first time I heard about the power of support was from the comrade George Karakasian, with the message he sent from prison. But back then I could not grasp its meaning. I just thought those were typical words that are usually written under such circumstances. I had to go through a cell myself to realise what it means, when I was held up for 24 hours in Limassol. Now I discover it all over again and the message is even more powerful, because I see my comrades unite again for a common cause, and with them also people that are politically aware. A movement is finally being formed. And it becomes even more powerful, because we are no longer segregated into Turks and Greeks, to Kurds and whatever else. We’ve broken the artificial segregations that they imposed upon us. Their racism does not touch us, their borders do not concern us.
Today I am happy, I am strong. The warders see that. They know that they no longer have any weapon against me and they’re not even trying to impose on me. They are completely relaxed. They kindly ask me if I want (!!) them to let me out in order to do something I want and upon my refusal, they leave without a second thought. Yesterday they allowed me to have a book, a note pad and a pencil. These are a whole fortune in here, but I can do without them.
Closing, I would like to say the following: from the moment I joined the anarchist movement, the State has never stopped giving me political lessons. It taught me to hate its authority through unjustified arrests, beatings, false accusations. It taught me to scorn its institutions through pre-arranged and unreasonable trials, whether mine or my comrades’. It taught me to doubt the “information” it provides us with, after the cruel war by the media, which constantly speak against us, with no interest in the truth (save for very few exceptions). It taught me to hate it, for its participation in crimes against humanity. It taught me who the real enemies and who my friends are. It taught me the power of solidarity.
Today it gives me one more lesson: that the worst prison that exists is subjugation, that real freedom belongs only to the revolutionists. It even taught me to believe in something that had previously seemed metaphysical, that:
THE PASSION FOR FREEDOM IS STRONGER THAN ALL CELLS
NO PARTICIPATION IN THE ELECTORAL PROCESS!
One can only be made sick by all the bargaining that takes place between political parties so that the party leaders can find the “right” people. Those, that is, those that will become their pawns at the next municipal elections. Of course, the subservient party members still ruminate the same rotten mottoes about “social consent” and “common good”, calling upon all of us to follow them like obedient sheep and vote for them.
But follow them where? To the destruction of every form of human freedom and communication? To the absurd logic of the exploitation of man by man? To the hundreds of evident but also undisclosed scandals (stock market, the State’s Department of Land, “bribes”, “illegal” permissions)? There where power and capital, close accomplices as always, devour the savings and incomes of the proletarians? Or shall we conform to their “pro-popular” politics, when with various pretexts (European Union, road safety) they vote for laws that go from increases in fines to the pathetic law regarding the Patients Card (which has turned public hospitals into private clinics)? Despite continuing problems (damaged roads, traffic problems, lack of meeting spaces for civilians, buildings inaccessible to people with special needs, etc.) and the inability on the part of “experts” to solve them, the parade of ridiculous and ambitious candidates in the media continues on a daily basis.
But what are elections, really, and what is their true role? They are the means that the State uses to succeed in the total subjugation of its citizens, with as little reaction from them as possible. Their role is to create, through the concession of superficial freedom, the impression that with one’s vote, one actively participates in the shaping of one’s life and true needs. By dragging people to the polls by a law which they themselves actually created, they ask of people to elect their next rulers and suppressors. They offer various pitiful choices, which are no different in colour (red or blue) or in where they place themselves (right or left). In any case, all rulers share the same goals: the perpetuation of the lack of human freedom and the suppression of every social revolt. Thus they keep people drowsed and separated. They use as a pretext various oppositions between political parties (which are, however, imaginary) which are duly suppressed when there is a call for interest. At the same time, we become witnesses to sickening collaborations between political parties that take place so bluntly, without even the “necessary” hypocritical appearance that they have got us used to. And as for the supposed rebels and “independent” candidates who proclaim that they look out for the common benefit, outside of party procedures, it’s not even worth the effort to bother with them, since they themselves revoke their own proclamations.
As far as municipal elections are concerned and specifically local self-government, their role is multi-faceted and much darker than that of other processes. They constitute another invention of the Statists, which ensures the possibility of greater control and direct access to society’s internal mechanisms. Because unarguably, mayors and members of the municipal council, too, even though seemingly closer to the people, also execute State orders. And, as anyone can realise, everyone works according to the orders of the capital, adjusting their programmes not to the common good, but to the best possible service of every suppressive creep. If, anyhow, things were any different, then cities would have a different face and not that of boredom and monotony which contributes to the suffocation of every creative feeling – a feeling that can, however still be developed inside us, if only we ourselves keep ourselves truly free. For, despite the efforts being made, nobody can control the thoughts and feelings of an acute person.
We as anarchists and as fighting people, prompt everyone to an electoral sabotage, thus maintaining an attitude of personal dignity. So let us show to the autocrats of our lives that we are not weak-willed, but that we are fighting for a better world, for a society without States and dominators.
INVALID – ABSTENTION
But follow them where? To the destruction of every form of human freedom and communication? To the absurd logic of the exploitation of man by man? To the hundreds of evident but also undisclosed scandals (stock market, the State’s Department of Land, “bribes”, “illegal” permissions)? There where power and capital, close accomplices as always, devour the savings and incomes of the proletarians? Or shall we conform to their “pro-popular” politics, when with various pretexts (European Union, road safety) they vote for laws that go from increases in fines to the pathetic law regarding the Patients Card (which has turned public hospitals into private clinics)? Despite continuing problems (damaged roads, traffic problems, lack of meeting spaces for civilians, buildings inaccessible to people with special needs, etc.) and the inability on the part of “experts” to solve them, the parade of ridiculous and ambitious candidates in the media continues on a daily basis.
But what are elections, really, and what is their true role? They are the means that the State uses to succeed in the total subjugation of its citizens, with as little reaction from them as possible. Their role is to create, through the concession of superficial freedom, the impression that with one’s vote, one actively participates in the shaping of one’s life and true needs. By dragging people to the polls by a law which they themselves actually created, they ask of people to elect their next rulers and suppressors. They offer various pitiful choices, which are no different in colour (red or blue) or in where they place themselves (right or left). In any case, all rulers share the same goals: the perpetuation of the lack of human freedom and the suppression of every social revolt. Thus they keep people drowsed and separated. They use as a pretext various oppositions between political parties (which are, however, imaginary) which are duly suppressed when there is a call for interest. At the same time, we become witnesses to sickening collaborations between political parties that take place so bluntly, without even the “necessary” hypocritical appearance that they have got us used to. And as for the supposed rebels and “independent” candidates who proclaim that they look out for the common benefit, outside of party procedures, it’s not even worth the effort to bother with them, since they themselves revoke their own proclamations.
As far as municipal elections are concerned and specifically local self-government, their role is multi-faceted and much darker than that of other processes. They constitute another invention of the Statists, which ensures the possibility of greater control and direct access to society’s internal mechanisms. Because unarguably, mayors and members of the municipal council, too, even though seemingly closer to the people, also execute State orders. And, as anyone can realise, everyone works according to the orders of the capital, adjusting their programmes not to the common good, but to the best possible service of every suppressive creep. If, anyhow, things were any different, then cities would have a different face and not that of boredom and monotony which contributes to the suffocation of every creative feeling – a feeling that can, however still be developed inside us, if only we ourselves keep ourselves truly free. For, despite the efforts being made, nobody can control the thoughts and feelings of an acute person.
We as anarchists and as fighting people, prompt everyone to an electoral sabotage, thus maintaining an attitude of personal dignity. So let us show to the autocrats of our lives that we are not weak-willed, but that we are fighting for a better world, for a society without States and dominators.
INVALID – ABSTENTION
WE CAN DESTROY THE BASE OF DEATH!
Yes we can no matter how powerful they boast they are, behind the weapons and space age uniforms are just mean petty men. They are merely pawns, instruments of authority who, even with their cutting edge equipment, will never be able to put a brake on the more powerful weapon we all have at our disposal: resurrected passion, the will for life and disobedience concerning anything that corrupts our dignity. Even if they look unbeatable, they and their equipment are nothing when faced with real feelings. If their apparent omnipotence sets the boundaries within which they want us to act, we respond that it is necessary to break these boundaries and get away from predictable, programmed ways of protesting to reach perspectives of liberation without parties or representatives, coordinators or organisers, sheep or shepherds, and take our lives into our own hands.
Why the base is a project of death
The base houses a forest of antenna which, along with the new one under construction, are of absolutely no social use whatsoever. On the contrary, these instruments are only of use to the British military and their allies the USA.
We can and we must destroy the base of death because they emit invisible pollution in the form of radio waves which are known to produce various types of cancer, thus endangering our health and that of our children;
Because the antenna can also be used to emit microwaves to control people’s minds and behaviour. The British government are pioneers in this field, already causing cancer, depression and unfocussed aggression among the catholic population of northern Ireland.
Because the base controls our lives. Every day readings from the antenna are sent to secret services GCHQ in England. Every day helicopters and spy planes fly over our heads to reconnoiter the area. Police road blocks and army patrols are a part of our daily life.
Because the constant sight of the base and military paraphernalia offends our aesthetic sense, our love of life, putting nightmares in the place of dreams.
Because the antenna control all the countries of the Middle East and far beyond, thereby placing this island under constant threat of attack. Many terroristic State attacks have used the base at Akrotiri in recent years, and more are foreseen in the near future – see the plans of mass murderers Bush and Blair to bomb Iraq.
For these reasons and many more that we don’t know or don’t have space to go into here, we must destroy the base of Akrotiti.
The political parties and organisations against the base
The communist party AKEL says it is against the base, but goes no further than organising huge demonstrations for people to express their democratic dissent. These demonstrations usually take the form of long marches with the aim of tiring us out and making us feel that we have done something significant against the base, while keeping it at a safe distance from our anger.
The ‘greens’ and ecology parties are against the antenna because it threatens the local flora and fauna, and because of the threat to health seen as a thing in itself, ignoring the actual military and social significance of the base. They organise symbolic actions against the base, thereby getting the media attention they desire, but back away from actions by local people who intend to attack the base. They say they want to save nature, but do not do anything concrete against those who are polluting it.
The peace movement – they are against the base, but, being nonviolent are also against the idea of attack.
Right wing member of parliament Matzaki is also against the base. His patriotic fervor contains hatred, not of all instruments of State terror against the people (all peoples) but of the English army as such, leaving the way open to the local police and military.
Who are we
We are anarchists, and as such are against all forms of imposed authority and control. We despise those who claim to act on others’ behalf as we know that they only do so for personal power or wealth. We also despise those who put decisions concerning their lives into the hands of such thieves and scoundrels. We struggle for the world we desire to live in, a world without bosses or slaves, alongside the exploited who take responsibility for their own lives in struggles where freedom becomes a reality, even for brief moments.
What can we do
In the face of such a monstrous reality as the base of Akrotiri it would be easy to become discouraged, feel powerless and leave the way open to the political parties, continuing to suffer in silence.
In actual fact, the only force capable of destroying the base of death is that of the people themselves, all those whose lives are affected by it. We are not alone. Many others are struggling against similar antenna in other parts of the world, and they would become our supporters and comrades. The media, instead of lies, would have to show the world at large that a people have taken up arms against their masters.
So let’s wake up! The struggle against the base must be real, not symbolic. It must be an ongoing, constant struggle, not one that leaves deadlines to demos and blockades called by groups who are simply following their own political schedules.
This struggle is not a political battle, it is part of the social war that requires employment of the means of all times: sabotage, attack, the spreading of information and self-organisation of the exploited to defend their own interests and take back their lives and those of their children.
To do this, those who are already convinced that direct attack and the eventual occupation and destruction of the base is the only thing we can do must begin to act in this sense right away.
We must organise in small groups with people we know and trust and carry out the actions that we decide upon ourselves. We must keep in touch with other similar groups, keeping alive the attack that has already begun and spreading it horizontally until the day when we all enter the base, men women and children armed with all the means at our disposal: tractors, lorries, bulldozers… to throw the out lords of war in a great joyful dance of life.
TOGETHER WE CAN DESTROY THE BASE OF DEATH!
Anarchist group of Cyprus
Why the base is a project of death
The base houses a forest of antenna which, along with the new one under construction, are of absolutely no social use whatsoever. On the contrary, these instruments are only of use to the British military and their allies the USA.
We can and we must destroy the base of death because they emit invisible pollution in the form of radio waves which are known to produce various types of cancer, thus endangering our health and that of our children;
Because the antenna can also be used to emit microwaves to control people’s minds and behaviour. The British government are pioneers in this field, already causing cancer, depression and unfocussed aggression among the catholic population of northern Ireland.
Because the base controls our lives. Every day readings from the antenna are sent to secret services GCHQ in England. Every day helicopters and spy planes fly over our heads to reconnoiter the area. Police road blocks and army patrols are a part of our daily life.
Because the constant sight of the base and military paraphernalia offends our aesthetic sense, our love of life, putting nightmares in the place of dreams.
Because the antenna control all the countries of the Middle East and far beyond, thereby placing this island under constant threat of attack. Many terroristic State attacks have used the base at Akrotiri in recent years, and more are foreseen in the near future – see the plans of mass murderers Bush and Blair to bomb Iraq.
For these reasons and many more that we don’t know or don’t have space to go into here, we must destroy the base of Akrotiti.
The political parties and organisations against the base
The communist party AKEL says it is against the base, but goes no further than organising huge demonstrations for people to express their democratic dissent. These demonstrations usually take the form of long marches with the aim of tiring us out and making us feel that we have done something significant against the base, while keeping it at a safe distance from our anger.
The ‘greens’ and ecology parties are against the antenna because it threatens the local flora and fauna, and because of the threat to health seen as a thing in itself, ignoring the actual military and social significance of the base. They organise symbolic actions against the base, thereby getting the media attention they desire, but back away from actions by local people who intend to attack the base. They say they want to save nature, but do not do anything concrete against those who are polluting it.
The peace movement – they are against the base, but, being nonviolent are also against the idea of attack.
Right wing member of parliament Matzaki is also against the base. His patriotic fervor contains hatred, not of all instruments of State terror against the people (all peoples) but of the English army as such, leaving the way open to the local police and military.
Who are we
We are anarchists, and as such are against all forms of imposed authority and control. We despise those who claim to act on others’ behalf as we know that they only do so for personal power or wealth. We also despise those who put decisions concerning their lives into the hands of such thieves and scoundrels. We struggle for the world we desire to live in, a world without bosses or slaves, alongside the exploited who take responsibility for their own lives in struggles where freedom becomes a reality, even for brief moments.
What can we do
In the face of such a monstrous reality as the base of Akrotiri it would be easy to become discouraged, feel powerless and leave the way open to the political parties, continuing to suffer in silence.
In actual fact, the only force capable of destroying the base of death is that of the people themselves, all those whose lives are affected by it. We are not alone. Many others are struggling against similar antenna in other parts of the world, and they would become our supporters and comrades. The media, instead of lies, would have to show the world at large that a people have taken up arms against their masters.
So let’s wake up! The struggle against the base must be real, not symbolic. It must be an ongoing, constant struggle, not one that leaves deadlines to demos and blockades called by groups who are simply following their own political schedules.
This struggle is not a political battle, it is part of the social war that requires employment of the means of all times: sabotage, attack, the spreading of information and self-organisation of the exploited to defend their own interests and take back their lives and those of their children.
To do this, those who are already convinced that direct attack and the eventual occupation and destruction of the base is the only thing we can do must begin to act in this sense right away.
We must organise in small groups with people we know and trust and carry out the actions that we decide upon ourselves. We must keep in touch with other similar groups, keeping alive the attack that has already begun and spreading it horizontally until the day when we all enter the base, men women and children armed with all the means at our disposal: tractors, lorries, bulldozers… to throw the out lords of war in a great joyful dance of life.
TOGETHER WE CAN DESTROY THE BASE OF DEATH!
Anarchist group of Cyprus
STATE TERRORISM WILL NOT PASS!
FREEDOM TO ANARCHIST GEORGE KARAKASIAN!
SOLIDARITY WITH SOTIRIS MARANGOS!
September 4, anarchist comrade George Karakasian was sentenced by the main court of Nicosia, Cyprus, to 7 months prison for ‘assaulting a police officer’ on a demonstration outside the Israeli ambassador’s home on the occasion of a party to celebrate the anniversary of the Israeli State on 18/04/02. He was also fined 120 pounds for ‘possession of an explosive device’ - an old bullet which was found when his home was raided following the demo. (see previous communications)
George had declared in court that he did not intend to apologise, and that he did not feel guilty for his actions because the cop is the henchman of authority and Zionism and declared he was not asking for leniency from the court. He did not mention the fact that he had been severely beaten following his arrest and taken to hospital to have his wounds treated, and that the next day his medical case notes ‘disappeared’ from the hospital records.
The judge announced that George supported an ‘ideology of violence’, that the ‘crimes’ he had committed, were ‘extremely serious’, and that he had no other option but to send him to jail. This is the first time an anarchist has been on trial in this island, and it is clear that this is the true reason why the judge had to keep him in prison.
We have no doubt as to who the real criminals are: judges like Michael Papamichael who dish out years of prison as though they are sweets; the guard dogs of capital like those on the demo who unleashed their psychotic violence on those who were present to express their indignance and disgust at this outrageous feast of death; the screws and all those involved in the construction and management of prisons; the media who distort reality, supplying pre-fabricated opinions to maintain passivity and resignation; the soldiers who obey orders and massacre defenceless men women and children.. The list is endless.
The most beautiful moment is when the clash against all the things that oppress us expresses our passion for equality and solidarity. This passion cannot be destroyed. The insurrectional flame, the will for life, will pass through the rubble of prisons and courts…. because they don’t capture a free man because they put him in a cell. Even the most inhuman power of authority is not enough to erase what we have in us. It cannot crush what we are fighting for, what pushes us and what we are pushing for, all of us: the social revolution, when the free expression of human nature won’t be just an abstract concept but will take life from the same passion that fires us to fight.
Freedom for George Karakasian!
Solidarity with anarchist comrade Sotiris Marangos, whose trial for the same demo with similar charges continues on September 30!
Destroy all prisons!
comrades of the anarchist group of Cyprus.
George has been deprived of his personal belongings
George Karakasian
Central Prison of Cyprus, Wing 2B 6523, Nicosia, Cyprus.
A solidarity account for George and Sotiris has been opened at the National Bank of Greece in Cyprus, Limassol agency (540), Account number: 540547441-0.
SOLIDARITY WITH SOTIRIS MARANGOS!
September 4, anarchist comrade George Karakasian was sentenced by the main court of Nicosia, Cyprus, to 7 months prison for ‘assaulting a police officer’ on a demonstration outside the Israeli ambassador’s home on the occasion of a party to celebrate the anniversary of the Israeli State on 18/04/02. He was also fined 120 pounds for ‘possession of an explosive device’ - an old bullet which was found when his home was raided following the demo. (see previous communications)
George had declared in court that he did not intend to apologise, and that he did not feel guilty for his actions because the cop is the henchman of authority and Zionism and declared he was not asking for leniency from the court. He did not mention the fact that he had been severely beaten following his arrest and taken to hospital to have his wounds treated, and that the next day his medical case notes ‘disappeared’ from the hospital records.
The judge announced that George supported an ‘ideology of violence’, that the ‘crimes’ he had committed, were ‘extremely serious’, and that he had no other option but to send him to jail. This is the first time an anarchist has been on trial in this island, and it is clear that this is the true reason why the judge had to keep him in prison.
We have no doubt as to who the real criminals are: judges like Michael Papamichael who dish out years of prison as though they are sweets; the guard dogs of capital like those on the demo who unleashed their psychotic violence on those who were present to express their indignance and disgust at this outrageous feast of death; the screws and all those involved in the construction and management of prisons; the media who distort reality, supplying pre-fabricated opinions to maintain passivity and resignation; the soldiers who obey orders and massacre defenceless men women and children.. The list is endless.
The most beautiful moment is when the clash against all the things that oppress us expresses our passion for equality and solidarity. This passion cannot be destroyed. The insurrectional flame, the will for life, will pass through the rubble of prisons and courts…. because they don’t capture a free man because they put him in a cell. Even the most inhuman power of authority is not enough to erase what we have in us. It cannot crush what we are fighting for, what pushes us and what we are pushing for, all of us: the social revolution, when the free expression of human nature won’t be just an abstract concept but will take life from the same passion that fires us to fight.
Freedom for George Karakasian!
Solidarity with anarchist comrade Sotiris Marangos, whose trial for the same demo with similar charges continues on September 30!
Destroy all prisons!
comrades of the anarchist group of Cyprus.
George has been deprived of his personal belongings
George Karakasian
Central Prison of Cyprus, Wing 2B 6523, Nicosia, Cyprus.
A solidarity account for George and Sotiris has been opened at the National Bank of Greece in Cyprus, Limassol agency (540), Account number: 540547441-0.
WELCOME TO CYPRUS!
Before you begin your holiday basking on the beaches of this beautiful island, we invite you to read the following:
The Cypriot State, while calling itself democratic, tries in every way to obstruct and prevent each and every kind of social struggle and the very act of doubting the State itself.
At this moment anarchist comrade George Karakasian has been a hostage in the hands of this State since 27/08/02. The only ‘crime’ our comrade has committed is that he contested not only the existence of the State but also it’s logic of passivity, wage slavery, or ‘enclosure’ within the artificial needs required for the preservance and survival not only of the Cypriot State but of every other State and authority in general.
Last April, a period characterised by the massive and continuous massacre of the Palestinian people by the Zionist murderers, George Karakasian could not remain passive. Ignoring the lifestyle that wants people to stay closed within a personal deadlock characterised by the logic of survival (school, army, work, retirement, death), he chose daily struggle as a way of life and as an attitude of personal dignity.
The invitation of the Israeli ambassador, convinced that while massacres of children were taking place there was no problem in celebrating the anniversary of the establishment of his bloodthirsty State, fortunately did not remain unanswered. This time the people’s rage could not be contained by the forces of order and the inevitable riot police.
All the guard dogs of capital were present, ready as always to protect the bosses, exploiters and everyone who lives on the backs of the workers who are trying to survive in harder and harder living conditions.
The imprisoned comrade George Karakasian was presented in court with eight heavy accusations, three of which are considered to be the most serious. We will dwell on this subject for a moment, not because we want to ‘justify’ anything – anyway social struggles cannot in any way be ‘judged’ by so-called ‘bourgeois legality’ – but because we want to show the dirt, hypocrysy and everything else that the word ‘justice’, the candy they hold in their mouths every day, stands for. So in order to to destroy the illusions which the law serves to foster:
Charge (1): ‘Causing serious physical injury to a police officer’: If the symbolic grasp (showing up the hateful the role of the police present) of the hat of a cop who later talked in front of the cameras can be called ‘serious physical injury’, then what can we call the capturing of the comrade by these cops, his being dragged inside the home of the Israeli ambassador and continually beaten all over his body by five of them shouting at him ‘fuck your anarchy’. They also injured his ear by pulling his earring. The extent of his injuries was such that he was taken to hospital. The democratic procedure did not stop there. When George Karakasian returned to the hospital next day to take his case card this had accidentally disappeared…
Charge 2: ‘Causing criminal damage to windscreen of a car belonging to a one of the guests invited to the celebration’. The ‘gentleman’ in question, who happens to be the manager of a multinational company and was naturally invited to the celebration of slaughter, although having been warned warned by the comrade Karakasian to turn back, tried to drive through the demonstrators with his car!!! As if that were possible. Anyway, in our opinion, the reason he managed to escape is that anarchists are not killers or conspirators like the guests!!! Here the phrase fits: ‘they talk about damage to property while we are talking about the loss of human lives’.
Charge 3: ‘Being in possession of a explosive device’. This is the ridiculous accusation of possessing an old bullet which was found when his home was raided. This does not deserve comment and only shows clearly the revenge of a ‘civilised’ and progressive State such as Cyprus when it is about to judge social fighters and people with dignity. We have already clarified that we did are not presenting the charges in order to justify them. The dignified attitude our comrade held in the court (something seen for the first time in Cyprus) and the fact that he did not ask for it to show him any clemency, shows exactly what are the feelings of anarchists for so-called ‘bourgeois justice’ are.
We as comrades of anarchist George Karakasian feel sorrow of course for the fact that he is imprisoned by the detestable Cyprus State, but at the same time we have the joy of knowing that our comrade remains strong and knows the impact his acts will have in the future in the revolutionary movement of the island and in future struggles generally.
Our solidarity until the day of the sentence (4/09/02 but which will also continue later) will take those dimensions it has to, in order that all those who express the misery of power understand that the attack they have started against anarchists and all those in struggle will not remain unanswered, that they will pay for the evil they do.
For a free life, a life in which everyone will be able to enjoy everything through equality and solidarity.
FREEDOM TO ANARCHIST COMRADE GEORGE KARAKASIAN.
SOLIDARITY TO ANARCHIST SOTIRI MARANGO WHO WILL BE JUDGED FOR THE SAME CASE 19/09/02
ANARCHIST GROUP OF CYPRUS
For communication: exegersi2002@yahoo.com
The Cypriot State, while calling itself democratic, tries in every way to obstruct and prevent each and every kind of social struggle and the very act of doubting the State itself.
At this moment anarchist comrade George Karakasian has been a hostage in the hands of this State since 27/08/02. The only ‘crime’ our comrade has committed is that he contested not only the existence of the State but also it’s logic of passivity, wage slavery, or ‘enclosure’ within the artificial needs required for the preservance and survival not only of the Cypriot State but of every other State and authority in general.
Last April, a period characterised by the massive and continuous massacre of the Palestinian people by the Zionist murderers, George Karakasian could not remain passive. Ignoring the lifestyle that wants people to stay closed within a personal deadlock characterised by the logic of survival (school, army, work, retirement, death), he chose daily struggle as a way of life and as an attitude of personal dignity.
The invitation of the Israeli ambassador, convinced that while massacres of children were taking place there was no problem in celebrating the anniversary of the establishment of his bloodthirsty State, fortunately did not remain unanswered. This time the people’s rage could not be contained by the forces of order and the inevitable riot police.
All the guard dogs of capital were present, ready as always to protect the bosses, exploiters and everyone who lives on the backs of the workers who are trying to survive in harder and harder living conditions.
The imprisoned comrade George Karakasian was presented in court with eight heavy accusations, three of which are considered to be the most serious. We will dwell on this subject for a moment, not because we want to ‘justify’ anything – anyway social struggles cannot in any way be ‘judged’ by so-called ‘bourgeois legality’ – but because we want to show the dirt, hypocrysy and everything else that the word ‘justice’, the candy they hold in their mouths every day, stands for. So in order to to destroy the illusions which the law serves to foster:
Charge (1): ‘Causing serious physical injury to a police officer’: If the symbolic grasp (showing up the hateful the role of the police present) of the hat of a cop who later talked in front of the cameras can be called ‘serious physical injury’, then what can we call the capturing of the comrade by these cops, his being dragged inside the home of the Israeli ambassador and continually beaten all over his body by five of them shouting at him ‘fuck your anarchy’. They also injured his ear by pulling his earring. The extent of his injuries was such that he was taken to hospital. The democratic procedure did not stop there. When George Karakasian returned to the hospital next day to take his case card this had accidentally disappeared…
Charge 2: ‘Causing criminal damage to windscreen of a car belonging to a one of the guests invited to the celebration’. The ‘gentleman’ in question, who happens to be the manager of a multinational company and was naturally invited to the celebration of slaughter, although having been warned warned by the comrade Karakasian to turn back, tried to drive through the demonstrators with his car!!! As if that were possible. Anyway, in our opinion, the reason he managed to escape is that anarchists are not killers or conspirators like the guests!!! Here the phrase fits: ‘they talk about damage to property while we are talking about the loss of human lives’.
Charge 3: ‘Being in possession of a explosive device’. This is the ridiculous accusation of possessing an old bullet which was found when his home was raided. This does not deserve comment and only shows clearly the revenge of a ‘civilised’ and progressive State such as Cyprus when it is about to judge social fighters and people with dignity. We have already clarified that we did are not presenting the charges in order to justify them. The dignified attitude our comrade held in the court (something seen for the first time in Cyprus) and the fact that he did not ask for it to show him any clemency, shows exactly what are the feelings of anarchists for so-called ‘bourgeois justice’ are.
We as comrades of anarchist George Karakasian feel sorrow of course for the fact that he is imprisoned by the detestable Cyprus State, but at the same time we have the joy of knowing that our comrade remains strong and knows the impact his acts will have in the future in the revolutionary movement of the island and in future struggles generally.
Our solidarity until the day of the sentence (4/09/02 but which will also continue later) will take those dimensions it has to, in order that all those who express the misery of power understand that the attack they have started against anarchists and all those in struggle will not remain unanswered, that they will pay for the evil they do.
For a free life, a life in which everyone will be able to enjoy everything through equality and solidarity.
FREEDOM TO ANARCHIST COMRADE GEORGE KARAKASIAN.
SOLIDARITY TO ANARCHIST SOTIRI MARANGO WHO WILL BE JUDGED FOR THE SAME CASE 19/09/02
ANARCHIST GROUP OF CYPRUS
For communication: exegersi2002@yahoo.com
FREEDOM FOR ANARCHIST GIORGOS KARAKASIAN, HOSTAGE OF THE STATE OF CYPRUS!
27th August 2002, anarchist comrade Giorgos Karakasian made his third appearance in court following a demo outside the Israeli embassy in Nicosia 18th April 2002, on the occasion of a celebration of the anniversary of the foundation of the State of Israel,where scuffles broke out between demonstrators and the police who were protecting the entry of guests to the assassins’ banquet.
The accusation is that of ‘beating a cop’ (who happened to be the second in command for the whole of Cyprus) and causing damage to the car of one of the guests.
It was already clear that this was to be no ordinary trial.
Giorgos received his summons only sixteen hours before the first hearing, at which he was accused of ‘crimes’ which were not included in the original summons. When the comrade denied the accusations against him the prosecutor asked for the trial to be speeded up. It was set for two weeks later, (14/06/02) whereas all the other cases heard that day were postponed for three months. At the subsequent hearing the trial was set for today, 27th August, due to the absence of two witnesses.
During this time first one, then a second, defence lawyer abandoned the case as George was not prepared to apologise for his actions or ask the court for leniency. No other lawyer was prepared to take up his case. Defending anarchists is not good for business in this banana republic!
In court today George decided to speak alone, without a lawyer, and to claim responsibility for his actions. He also declared that he did not recognise the court, and was not going to beg for clemency. The judge was visibly confused and consternated by the singular individual before him who, underlining his revolutionary anarchist identity, was for the first time in the history of Cyprus, claiming responsibility for an act of rebellion with dignity and pride. The henchman of the State’s immediate reaction was to have the comrade speedily removed from court and sent to prison for a week pending sentence, which he has promised will be the maximum for contempt of court. The date has been set for September 4.
All visits have been refused by the prison authorities.
Giorgo’s anarchist comrades in Cyprus are giving him their unconditional solidarity, with all possible means. But, unlike the State, anarchists know no boundaries. It’s up to comrades everywhere to show this fucking island full of soldiers and military bases, that another reality exists: that of the joyous lightness of rebellion.
Some comrades of the anarchist group of Cyprus
The accusation is that of ‘beating a cop’ (who happened to be the second in command for the whole of Cyprus) and causing damage to the car of one of the guests.
It was already clear that this was to be no ordinary trial.
Giorgos received his summons only sixteen hours before the first hearing, at which he was accused of ‘crimes’ which were not included in the original summons. When the comrade denied the accusations against him the prosecutor asked for the trial to be speeded up. It was set for two weeks later, (14/06/02) whereas all the other cases heard that day were postponed for three months. At the subsequent hearing the trial was set for today, 27th August, due to the absence of two witnesses.
During this time first one, then a second, defence lawyer abandoned the case as George was not prepared to apologise for his actions or ask the court for leniency. No other lawyer was prepared to take up his case. Defending anarchists is not good for business in this banana republic!
In court today George decided to speak alone, without a lawyer, and to claim responsibility for his actions. He also declared that he did not recognise the court, and was not going to beg for clemency. The judge was visibly confused and consternated by the singular individual before him who, underlining his revolutionary anarchist identity, was for the first time in the history of Cyprus, claiming responsibility for an act of rebellion with dignity and pride. The henchman of the State’s immediate reaction was to have the comrade speedily removed from court and sent to prison for a week pending sentence, which he has promised will be the maximum for contempt of court. The date has been set for September 4.
All visits have been refused by the prison authorities.
Giorgo’s anarchist comrades in Cyprus are giving him their unconditional solidarity, with all possible means. But, unlike the State, anarchists know no boundaries. It’s up to comrades everywhere to show this fucking island full of soldiers and military bases, that another reality exists: that of the joyous lightness of rebellion.
Some comrades of the anarchist group of Cyprus
THE BASE OF DEATH MUST BE DESTROYED!
The British army have gone ahead with force to begin work to install yet another giant antenna in the land they occupy outside Akrotiri village, regardless of the fact that this is against the will and the wellbeing of the people of Akrotiri.
Commencement of the dirty work began under protection of the army in full riot gear after the SBA had violently disposed of the few protestors who tried to stop bulldozers from entering. This is a stark reminder that there is not one but two, or rather three, occupying armies in Cyprus: the Turkish, the British and the Cypriot (which like all armies will not hesitate to turn on its own people to protect class interests).
The village people, under the threat to their means of subsistence, had decided to go to work that day as normal, not realizing perhaps the full implications of what is happening around them.
In the first place, living with the daily presence of an active armed force which is deployed in many parts of the island. This force, as well as killing local people with their toxins and destroying a large part of the beauty of this island by causing irreversible ecological damage, is a force at war, sending bombers to kill defenceless men women and children to whichever part of the world they and their masters desire. Yugoslavia and Afganistan are but two recent examples. Military aircraft also carry out constant surveillance on the local population they claim to protect against the invading army in the north.
Now these murderers are declaring that the new antenna will not be a health hazard, using the ‘proof’ of ‘scientific tests’. Science and the new information technologies are the new religions of death, and we must not listen to them, but in the first place to our hearts and desires. We must think and act according to our own convictions. We must destroy what is oppressing us and others against who we have no grudge, recognizing who our real enemies are and fighting them with all the means at our disposal.
This struggle should not be delegated to the political parties, even those who are against the base. The means they use, even if their brave militants put themselves on the line and get beaten by the police, always end up at the negotiating table over the heads of those who elected them.
Only self organization, direct action and sabotage by all those who are really interested changing their lives will find the way to uproot the pylons of death.
In this social struggle, which refuses the logic of militarism, patriotism or parliamentarianism, the people will always find anarchists at their side.
Solidarity with the people of Akrotiri!
The base of death must be destroyed!
Cyprus anarchist group
Commencement of the dirty work began under protection of the army in full riot gear after the SBA had violently disposed of the few protestors who tried to stop bulldozers from entering. This is a stark reminder that there is not one but two, or rather three, occupying armies in Cyprus: the Turkish, the British and the Cypriot (which like all armies will not hesitate to turn on its own people to protect class interests).
The village people, under the threat to their means of subsistence, had decided to go to work that day as normal, not realizing perhaps the full implications of what is happening around them.
In the first place, living with the daily presence of an active armed force which is deployed in many parts of the island. This force, as well as killing local people with their toxins and destroying a large part of the beauty of this island by causing irreversible ecological damage, is a force at war, sending bombers to kill defenceless men women and children to whichever part of the world they and their masters desire. Yugoslavia and Afganistan are but two recent examples. Military aircraft also carry out constant surveillance on the local population they claim to protect against the invading army in the north.
Now these murderers are declaring that the new antenna will not be a health hazard, using the ‘proof’ of ‘scientific tests’. Science and the new information technologies are the new religions of death, and we must not listen to them, but in the first place to our hearts and desires. We must think and act according to our own convictions. We must destroy what is oppressing us and others against who we have no grudge, recognizing who our real enemies are and fighting them with all the means at our disposal.
This struggle should not be delegated to the political parties, even those who are against the base. The means they use, even if their brave militants put themselves on the line and get beaten by the police, always end up at the negotiating table over the heads of those who elected them.
Only self organization, direct action and sabotage by all those who are really interested changing their lives will find the way to uproot the pylons of death.
In this social struggle, which refuses the logic of militarism, patriotism or parliamentarianism, the people will always find anarchists at their side.
Solidarity with the people of Akrotiri!
The base of death must be destroyed!
Cyprus anarchist group
Solidarity with the Palestinian insurrection
The ongoing resistance of the Palestinian people, particularly by young boys armed with nothing but stones against one of the best equipped and most efficient armies in the world, has been a struggle against all the horrors of classical genocide: mass deportation, concentration camps, indiscriminate massacres, the destruction of individual houses and whole streets, on the spot shooting, violence, rape, attacks on the mosques, planned massacres by plain clothes death squads, etc. The use of lethal poisonous gases, rubber bullets and real bullets with their daily death toll which no longer makes news, has failed to quell this rebellion.
The media, in the new democratic world order based on opinion and consensus, have excelled themselves in their biased reporting of such events, consolidating opinion in favour of the Israeli State and US interests in the Mediterranean. However, the Nazi-style project of the physical and cultural extermination of the Palestinian Arab people can no longer be concealed from the eyes of the world as bombs, tanks and bulldozers continue to demolish their miserable homes along with the few social structures they have managed to erect in the open prison they have been condemned to live in. The cries of indignation that this has provoked from much of the political leadership of the West has had little to do with feelings for the Palestinians and a lot to do with fear of upsetting some of the surrounding Arab States on whom they depend for cheap supplies of oil.
The reaction of some of the young people involved in the struggle to ward off one of the most highly equipped armies in the world barehanded is hardly surprising. Surrounded by the stench of death since birth, some have been recruited by Islamic organizations such as Hamas in order to take a few equally defenceless Israeli men women and children with them in the tragic culmination of their short lives. Such events are given maximum media coverage, not out of any real sympathy for the victims of suicide attacks, but because they can be exploited politically in favour of the interests of dominion, fitting perfectly into Bush’s logic of the ‘axis of evil’ in order to justify State terror on a massive scale.
Faced with this reality it is easy to fall prey to the Manichaean logic of war and side with one or other ‘nation’ en bloc. But if our solidarity with the oppressed is to be go beyond words or marching behind national flags, we must make an effort to understand the situation in its profound social and historical complexity. Only then will we be able to abandon the role of passive spectator and act with revolutionary solidarity in a way that refuses the obtuse logic of nationalism, militarism and the State.
Already in 1917 in the Balfour declaration it was evident that international Zionist interests were far more important than the fate of ‘70,000 Arabs with all their prejudices’. The occupation of the Palestinian land and the constitution of a Jewish national party based on history and religion was about to begin. By 1935 there were already 400.000 Jews to 900.00 Arabs. In 1948 the Israeli State was constituted – clashes and persecutions began, resulting in a mass exodus of the Arabs. All Jewish immigrants were promised not only nationality, but also one of the houses left by the Arabs in their flight. They had the sympathy of the world behind them following the genocide put into act by the Nazis, and how could it be otherwise. But behind them were the interests of Zionism and those of US domination, and dollars were poured into Israel to strengthen the State and supply an arsenal of weaponry fit for the latter’s role as policeman of the Mediterranean. Ever since, the colonizers have continued to push the Palestinians out of their homes and off their land, consigning them to a tiny desert which has become the most densely populated area in the world.
It should be said that many of the first Jewish immigrants in the land of Israel had ideals of equality which encountered the desire of the Palestinaian Arabs to share their land as they had done previously with the Armenians fleeing Turkish persecution. They did not oppose themselves to the Jews until the occupation took the form of a Zionist political movement aimed at instating an Israeli State as opposed to free federated agricultural communities. There still exists today an opposition in Israel who are against the Zionist project of death in favour of a kind of libertarian socialism in the Middle East, especially Israel. They reject the nationalist Israeli State in favour of the class struggle for free collectivist communities. In fact free federated productive communities would be the only possible solution for the people of the Middle East.
The realization of a desire to live alongside each other without the State by both Israeli and Palestinian people would subvert the world order of exploitation and death. The latter requires a situation of racial hatred and war as the necessary preliminary for orchestrating a future situation of armed peace along with all the internal structures required to maintain such a condition. The constitution of the Palestinian State by the OLP with Arafat as its leader, seen by many as something positive, did not waste time in baring its true nature in this sense. A grotesque parody of a State with its Palestinian policemen, courts and prisons took the place of the Israeli Shin Beth in repressing the uncontrollable youths of Gaza. Arrests, interrogation, torture and imprisonment by one-time comrades in arms against the colonizers now the upholders of order - in the first place in the interests of the Israeli bosses - has lead to armed resistance within the State of Palestine, mainly in the form of Hamas, ‘The armed wing of God’, preparing boys for death in the holy war against the infidels.
In spite of all this, the Intifada which broke out in December 1987, continues unabated. It is to this mass insurrection that we must give our solidarity by attacking the economic and political interests of the Israeli State without attacking the Israeli people.
Internationalist revolutionary solidarity uses simple means such as sabotage, the boycotting of products, or demonstrations which distinguish themselves clearly from all political manifestations tinged with nationalism.
The language of rebellion knows no borders, it can strike anywhere, any time.
This is what the States are afraid of. They know that without the consensus of the indifferent their arsenal of war would become dead weapons.
The world has shown its indifference too long. It is time to express our anger in revolutionary solidarity with all those in struggle against the State, in particular with the young Palestinians fighting for their lives.
Free hearts
For a world without borders.
The media, in the new democratic world order based on opinion and consensus, have excelled themselves in their biased reporting of such events, consolidating opinion in favour of the Israeli State and US interests in the Mediterranean. However, the Nazi-style project of the physical and cultural extermination of the Palestinian Arab people can no longer be concealed from the eyes of the world as bombs, tanks and bulldozers continue to demolish their miserable homes along with the few social structures they have managed to erect in the open prison they have been condemned to live in. The cries of indignation that this has provoked from much of the political leadership of the West has had little to do with feelings for the Palestinians and a lot to do with fear of upsetting some of the surrounding Arab States on whom they depend for cheap supplies of oil.
The reaction of some of the young people involved in the struggle to ward off one of the most highly equipped armies in the world barehanded is hardly surprising. Surrounded by the stench of death since birth, some have been recruited by Islamic organizations such as Hamas in order to take a few equally defenceless Israeli men women and children with them in the tragic culmination of their short lives. Such events are given maximum media coverage, not out of any real sympathy for the victims of suicide attacks, but because they can be exploited politically in favour of the interests of dominion, fitting perfectly into Bush’s logic of the ‘axis of evil’ in order to justify State terror on a massive scale.
Faced with this reality it is easy to fall prey to the Manichaean logic of war and side with one or other ‘nation’ en bloc. But if our solidarity with the oppressed is to be go beyond words or marching behind national flags, we must make an effort to understand the situation in its profound social and historical complexity. Only then will we be able to abandon the role of passive spectator and act with revolutionary solidarity in a way that refuses the obtuse logic of nationalism, militarism and the State.
Already in 1917 in the Balfour declaration it was evident that international Zionist interests were far more important than the fate of ‘70,000 Arabs with all their prejudices’. The occupation of the Palestinian land and the constitution of a Jewish national party based on history and religion was about to begin. By 1935 there were already 400.000 Jews to 900.00 Arabs. In 1948 the Israeli State was constituted – clashes and persecutions began, resulting in a mass exodus of the Arabs. All Jewish immigrants were promised not only nationality, but also one of the houses left by the Arabs in their flight. They had the sympathy of the world behind them following the genocide put into act by the Nazis, and how could it be otherwise. But behind them were the interests of Zionism and those of US domination, and dollars were poured into Israel to strengthen the State and supply an arsenal of weaponry fit for the latter’s role as policeman of the Mediterranean. Ever since, the colonizers have continued to push the Palestinians out of their homes and off their land, consigning them to a tiny desert which has become the most densely populated area in the world.
It should be said that many of the first Jewish immigrants in the land of Israel had ideals of equality which encountered the desire of the Palestinaian Arabs to share their land as they had done previously with the Armenians fleeing Turkish persecution. They did not oppose themselves to the Jews until the occupation took the form of a Zionist political movement aimed at instating an Israeli State as opposed to free federated agricultural communities. There still exists today an opposition in Israel who are against the Zionist project of death in favour of a kind of libertarian socialism in the Middle East, especially Israel. They reject the nationalist Israeli State in favour of the class struggle for free collectivist communities. In fact free federated productive communities would be the only possible solution for the people of the Middle East.
The realization of a desire to live alongside each other without the State by both Israeli and Palestinian people would subvert the world order of exploitation and death. The latter requires a situation of racial hatred and war as the necessary preliminary for orchestrating a future situation of armed peace along with all the internal structures required to maintain such a condition. The constitution of the Palestinian State by the OLP with Arafat as its leader, seen by many as something positive, did not waste time in baring its true nature in this sense. A grotesque parody of a State with its Palestinian policemen, courts and prisons took the place of the Israeli Shin Beth in repressing the uncontrollable youths of Gaza. Arrests, interrogation, torture and imprisonment by one-time comrades in arms against the colonizers now the upholders of order - in the first place in the interests of the Israeli bosses - has lead to armed resistance within the State of Palestine, mainly in the form of Hamas, ‘The armed wing of God’, preparing boys for death in the holy war against the infidels.
In spite of all this, the Intifada which broke out in December 1987, continues unabated. It is to this mass insurrection that we must give our solidarity by attacking the economic and political interests of the Israeli State without attacking the Israeli people.
Internationalist revolutionary solidarity uses simple means such as sabotage, the boycotting of products, or demonstrations which distinguish themselves clearly from all political manifestations tinged with nationalism.
The language of rebellion knows no borders, it can strike anywhere, any time.
This is what the States are afraid of. They know that without the consensus of the indifferent their arsenal of war would become dead weapons.
The world has shown its indifference too long. It is time to express our anger in revolutionary solidarity with all those in struggle against the State, in particular with the young Palestinians fighting for their lives.
Free hearts
For a world without borders.
A night of insurgence against the British base of Akrotiri
4 July 2002
Only one word can describe last night in Cyprus: insurrection.
But let’s take the facts from the beginning. Last Sunday the green party made a call for a road block at the English base from where Britain carries out much of its slaughter, because they were due to start construction to erect yet another giant radio listening antenna to add to the already existing ones which cover a large area. These antenna do not only create an environmental hazard, they health problems to the people who live nearby and beyond.
The greens set up camp at the entrance to the base, but the only ones who accepted their call were some anarchists of the Cyprus group. The latter had attended a meeting by the villagers that afternoon where they had decided to come to the base the next day at dawn and attack the convoy. The anarchists spent the night outside the base preparing to attack along with the villagers when they arrived. During the night the place was surrounded by cops. Monday morning the villagers failed to turn up to the appointment. Threats and bribes had been successful in keeping them away. (The base covers a large area which has destroyed the land, and puts itself up as the only source of income for the locals.) The demonstrastors present had nothing left to do but block the entrance to the bulldozers etc that had arrived to begin work.
When clashes began the road was closed completely. After an ultimatum from the English army, special forces cops arrived on the scene and violently attacked the demonstrators, opening up the road again. They also arrested one comrade. He was released one hour later after being charged. Meanwhile the construction of the antenna had begun.
The afternoon of the next day, Monday, there was a demonstration of discontented from the communist party of Cyprus AKEL at the scene of the construction. The AKEL’s intentions were obvious: on the one hand the party tried to keep a ‘revolutionary’ profile because of the approaching elections and on the other hand they wanted to gain leadership of the whole struggle, keeping it within the lines of political ‘legality’, i.e. symbolic passivity.
But it seems that some others had a different opinion! A few moments before the demo stopped 100 yards from the base, anarchists (carrying a banner ‘Death to the Base of Death’, and giving our lealfets in Greek and English), ecologists, young people with motorbikes, etc, marched right up to the gates now guarded by SBA riot police and English soldiers with shields and batons etc. Some members of the communist party who wanted to keep going like the others didn’t do so because their party didn’t give them permission! Slogans were shouted and there were some skirmishes with the cops. But after that we saw that we couldn’t stand up to them because we were so few compared to them. After a quick discussion with the others present it was decided to leave. The English dominators and their henchmen thought that the night was over. But the poor guys got it wrong.
Anarchists and young rebels very quickly gave themselves an appointment at a specific spot and after a quick organisational discussion, returned to the base. The night was a celebration. There was a battle with the cops who received a storm of stones, molotovs and pieces of wood. During the continuous attack from the cops, the furious demonstrators started burning the place everywhere to hold them back. Everybody was very well self-organised, especially during the retreat, driving in convoy around the base in open trucks spilling over with young people, cars, motorbikes, lit by the wide beams of the military helicopters above. When the rebels attacked part of the police station was burned, buildings, a car and a sentry box near the base were also burned. The moments that took place are indescribable. At one point the whole convoy drove to the nearest petrol station and filled up a few crates of empty beer bottles to continue the attack. Some were thinking how many planes had taken off from this place, and how many bodies of humiliated people had been dismembere: that was enough for us to want to burn it all!
Here it should be said that there were none of the patriotic flags that had been so evident in the riot the year previously when a right wing deputy was arrested when a previous antenna was erected – now it was a question of people rebelling for themselves. Needless to say, the press reported this present attack as an act of ‘hooligans’.
Finally three arrests were made. Two young guys and another comrade were arrested from the base area, by the Cypriot cops, because they declared they didn’t stop at a check point. Later all the accused were released
Comrades, something very strong has begun here, and whoever says that insurrections are not happening, just needs to see what happened last night on this island, where apathy and indifference are widespread.
DEATH TO THE BASE OF DEATH. DEATH TO THE BASE OF THE DOMINATORS.
Only one word can describe last night in Cyprus: insurrection.
But let’s take the facts from the beginning. Last Sunday the green party made a call for a road block at the English base from where Britain carries out much of its slaughter, because they were due to start construction to erect yet another giant radio listening antenna to add to the already existing ones which cover a large area. These antenna do not only create an environmental hazard, they health problems to the people who live nearby and beyond.
The greens set up camp at the entrance to the base, but the only ones who accepted their call were some anarchists of the Cyprus group. The latter had attended a meeting by the villagers that afternoon where they had decided to come to the base the next day at dawn and attack the convoy. The anarchists spent the night outside the base preparing to attack along with the villagers when they arrived. During the night the place was surrounded by cops. Monday morning the villagers failed to turn up to the appointment. Threats and bribes had been successful in keeping them away. (The base covers a large area which has destroyed the land, and puts itself up as the only source of income for the locals.) The demonstrastors present had nothing left to do but block the entrance to the bulldozers etc that had arrived to begin work.
When clashes began the road was closed completely. After an ultimatum from the English army, special forces cops arrived on the scene and violently attacked the demonstrators, opening up the road again. They also arrested one comrade. He was released one hour later after being charged. Meanwhile the construction of the antenna had begun.
The afternoon of the next day, Monday, there was a demonstration of discontented from the communist party of Cyprus AKEL at the scene of the construction. The AKEL’s intentions were obvious: on the one hand the party tried to keep a ‘revolutionary’ profile because of the approaching elections and on the other hand they wanted to gain leadership of the whole struggle, keeping it within the lines of political ‘legality’, i.e. symbolic passivity.
But it seems that some others had a different opinion! A few moments before the demo stopped 100 yards from the base, anarchists (carrying a banner ‘Death to the Base of Death’, and giving our lealfets in Greek and English), ecologists, young people with motorbikes, etc, marched right up to the gates now guarded by SBA riot police and English soldiers with shields and batons etc. Some members of the communist party who wanted to keep going like the others didn’t do so because their party didn’t give them permission! Slogans were shouted and there were some skirmishes with the cops. But after that we saw that we couldn’t stand up to them because we were so few compared to them. After a quick discussion with the others present it was decided to leave. The English dominators and their henchmen thought that the night was over. But the poor guys got it wrong.
Anarchists and young rebels very quickly gave themselves an appointment at a specific spot and after a quick organisational discussion, returned to the base. The night was a celebration. There was a battle with the cops who received a storm of stones, molotovs and pieces of wood. During the continuous attack from the cops, the furious demonstrators started burning the place everywhere to hold them back. Everybody was very well self-organised, especially during the retreat, driving in convoy around the base in open trucks spilling over with young people, cars, motorbikes, lit by the wide beams of the military helicopters above. When the rebels attacked part of the police station was burned, buildings, a car and a sentry box near the base were also burned. The moments that took place are indescribable. At one point the whole convoy drove to the nearest petrol station and filled up a few crates of empty beer bottles to continue the attack. Some were thinking how many planes had taken off from this place, and how many bodies of humiliated people had been dismembere: that was enough for us to want to burn it all!
Here it should be said that there were none of the patriotic flags that had been so evident in the riot the year previously when a right wing deputy was arrested when a previous antenna was erected – now it was a question of people rebelling for themselves. Needless to say, the press reported this present attack as an act of ‘hooligans’.
Finally three arrests were made. Two young guys and another comrade were arrested from the base area, by the Cypriot cops, because they declared they didn’t stop at a check point. Later all the accused were released
Comrades, something very strong has begun here, and whoever says that insurrections are not happening, just needs to see what happened last night on this island, where apathy and indifference are widespread.
DEATH TO THE BASE OF DEATH. DEATH TO THE BASE OF THE DOMINATORS.
Cyprus, with a population of less than a million, sees two peoples, ‘Turkish Cypriots’ and ‘Greek Cypriots’, divided by barbed wire, tanks and soldiers. As well as the Greek, the Turkish and the Cypriot army, it also hosts a number of British military bases, a remainder of a colonial past now projected into the future of dominion with high-tech listening technology. The bases of death used in the Gulf war, Afghanistan and exYugoslavia before playing a major role in the present massacre in Iraq.
In the south, under the thin veneer of wellbeing lent by tacky consumerism and almost constant sunshine there festers a sense of futility and bewilderment among many young people. Tales by their fathers, reinforced by school and church, push many to identify with national flags and harbour patriotic ideals fuelled by an irrational hatred of ‘communists’ ‘foreigners’ as well as their Turkish counterparts.
The anarchist nucleus of Cyprus attempted to become an active presence in this suppressed social clash, trying to develop anarchist methods suited to the situation so as to open up contradictions and put questions in the place of sullen certainty.
The anarchist projectuality grew from individual rebels coming together and creating a group in the attempt to transform the passion for freedom into something more concrete in order to make their ideas known, and try to open up insurrectional possibilities in a social terrain defined by some of the worst manifestations of power. In just one year the southern part of the island saw hundreds of anarchist posters, fliers, leaflets, graffiti, bookstalls, actions, anarchist participation in demonstrations and much more, disturbing the armed peace of the island. Needless to say the forces of repression did not remain indifferent. One comrade was given a seven months’ prison sentence for ‘assaulting’ a cop during a demonstration outside the Israeli ambassador’s home, another was given a three months’ suspended sentence on similar charges. Yet another was seriously beaten while in police custody following a flyposting expedition.
In the south, under the thin veneer of wellbeing lent by tacky consumerism and almost constant sunshine there festers a sense of futility and bewilderment among many young people. Tales by their fathers, reinforced by school and church, push many to identify with national flags and harbour patriotic ideals fuelled by an irrational hatred of ‘communists’ ‘foreigners’ as well as their Turkish counterparts.
The anarchist nucleus of Cyprus attempted to become an active presence in this suppressed social clash, trying to develop anarchist methods suited to the situation so as to open up contradictions and put questions in the place of sullen certainty.
The anarchist projectuality grew from individual rebels coming together and creating a group in the attempt to transform the passion for freedom into something more concrete in order to make their ideas known, and try to open up insurrectional possibilities in a social terrain defined by some of the worst manifestations of power. In just one year the southern part of the island saw hundreds of anarchist posters, fliers, leaflets, graffiti, bookstalls, actions, anarchist participation in demonstrations and much more, disturbing the armed peace of the island. Needless to say the forces of repression did not remain indifferent. One comrade was given a seven months’ prison sentence for ‘assaulting’ a cop during a demonstration outside the Israeli ambassador’s home, another was given a three months’ suspended sentence on similar charges. Yet another was seriously beaten while in police custody following a flyposting expedition.
Let’s climb down from the summit of misery to fan the fires of rebellion
Let’s climb down from the summit of misery to fan the fires of rebellion
Capitalism, a well-tested system based on the exploitation of human and natural resources, has successfully been producing wealth for a minority of the world’s population for a number of centuries. It’s effects are so all-encompassing that it is hard for most people to imagine that any other social and economic reality could exist.
One of the essential premises of this system is a condition of unequal development both at national and world level. Without this, capital would cease to function as such. It is absurd therefore that occasions such as the UN Earth Summit in Johannesburg be seen as real attempts to eliminate poverty from the world. (In fact, they recognize this themselves, admitting that virtually none of the targets laid out ten years ago in Rio have been achieved.)
Governments, the UN and industry, along with technology and the media, are essential components of capital. They enjoy the active collaboration of millions of people (voters, workers) and the passive collaboration of millions of others (unemployed, emarginated poverty-striken masses). The former are pushed to feel concern and guilt for the latter, the latter to suffer in silence or beg for charity from the first.
The media, while rendering some of the worst effects of this system visible, carry on with their task of maintaining consensus. They show capital to have a human face, and the capacity to alleviate some of the misery and ecological devastation it has brought about.
With the advent of information technology – which has lead to the elimination of time and space - the system has become more refined and has reached global proportions. Investors have a constant picture of price indexes at world level. This, combined with new flexible productive forms, has meant that the capitalists can establish temporary production units wherever costs are lowest, often using unskilled labour by prisoners or children.
Information technology has led to a situation of production which requires flexible, barely literate people who are quick to a few learn basic procedures, that’s all. The collusion of this technology with science has produced an acceleration in genetic experimentation, resulting in the genetic modification of crops to add to the already devastating effects of the monocultures that have ruined the land of so many peasants, leading to widespread economic disaster and famine.
Added to this we have the reality of militarisation and dominion. In just two decades millions have been massacred, died of hunger, or been forced into refugee camps rife with disease. Those who can find money to pay the mafia tariffs join the great mass of immigrants, gambling their lives in search for a new perspective. The ones who make it to their dream world wake up with a shock to find themselves locked up or cleaning up the shit of the privileged.
Some people actually feel a twinge of discomfort at this situation but don’t want to have their comfortable lives disturbed by boatloads of desperate unwashed people turning up on their shores. They are prepared to sign a cheque at the end of each month to help ‘develop the third world’ so long as they can leave it up to circuses like the present summit meeting in Johannesburg to sort out the problems.
But the story is not just one of resignation and despair, of hypocrisy and false concern. All over the world there are individuals, men and women, who are fighting the present system, choosing their own methods of attack with an ideal of freedom and equality in their hearts.
Wary of big, spectacular actions, this rebellion does not reach the headlines, but continues doggedly day after day to think for itself and act on reality with dignity and passion. The incarceration of George Karakasian following events at a demonstration against the Zionist murderers of the Palestinian people (without doubt amongst the poorest in the world) should be seen in this light.
In fact, no action of attack, however small, leaves power unaffected. The horizontal spreading of these attacks is sabotaging the projects of the powerful and uniting the exploited in a vast conspiracy of the self.
So let's wake up!
Palliatives of power such as the present Summit should be seen as nothing but one more possible objective: stuff to fire our bad passions and light up the night skies.
Vagabond hearts of the Cyprus anarchist group
Capitalism, a well-tested system based on the exploitation of human and natural resources, has successfully been producing wealth for a minority of the world’s population for a number of centuries. It’s effects are so all-encompassing that it is hard for most people to imagine that any other social and economic reality could exist.
One of the essential premises of this system is a condition of unequal development both at national and world level. Without this, capital would cease to function as such. It is absurd therefore that occasions such as the UN Earth Summit in Johannesburg be seen as real attempts to eliminate poverty from the world. (In fact, they recognize this themselves, admitting that virtually none of the targets laid out ten years ago in Rio have been achieved.)
Governments, the UN and industry, along with technology and the media, are essential components of capital. They enjoy the active collaboration of millions of people (voters, workers) and the passive collaboration of millions of others (unemployed, emarginated poverty-striken masses). The former are pushed to feel concern and guilt for the latter, the latter to suffer in silence or beg for charity from the first.
The media, while rendering some of the worst effects of this system visible, carry on with their task of maintaining consensus. They show capital to have a human face, and the capacity to alleviate some of the misery and ecological devastation it has brought about.
With the advent of information technology – which has lead to the elimination of time and space - the system has become more refined and has reached global proportions. Investors have a constant picture of price indexes at world level. This, combined with new flexible productive forms, has meant that the capitalists can establish temporary production units wherever costs are lowest, often using unskilled labour by prisoners or children.
Information technology has led to a situation of production which requires flexible, barely literate people who are quick to a few learn basic procedures, that’s all. The collusion of this technology with science has produced an acceleration in genetic experimentation, resulting in the genetic modification of crops to add to the already devastating effects of the monocultures that have ruined the land of so many peasants, leading to widespread economic disaster and famine.
Added to this we have the reality of militarisation and dominion. In just two decades millions have been massacred, died of hunger, or been forced into refugee camps rife with disease. Those who can find money to pay the mafia tariffs join the great mass of immigrants, gambling their lives in search for a new perspective. The ones who make it to their dream world wake up with a shock to find themselves locked up or cleaning up the shit of the privileged.
Some people actually feel a twinge of discomfort at this situation but don’t want to have their comfortable lives disturbed by boatloads of desperate unwashed people turning up on their shores. They are prepared to sign a cheque at the end of each month to help ‘develop the third world’ so long as they can leave it up to circuses like the present summit meeting in Johannesburg to sort out the problems.
But the story is not just one of resignation and despair, of hypocrisy and false concern. All over the world there are individuals, men and women, who are fighting the present system, choosing their own methods of attack with an ideal of freedom and equality in their hearts.
Wary of big, spectacular actions, this rebellion does not reach the headlines, but continues doggedly day after day to think for itself and act on reality with dignity and passion. The incarceration of George Karakasian following events at a demonstration against the Zionist murderers of the Palestinian people (without doubt amongst the poorest in the world) should be seen in this light.
In fact, no action of attack, however small, leaves power unaffected. The horizontal spreading of these attacks is sabotaging the projects of the powerful and uniting the exploited in a vast conspiracy of the self.
So let's wake up!
Palliatives of power such as the present Summit should be seen as nothing but one more possible objective: stuff to fire our bad passions and light up the night skies.
Vagabond hearts of the Cyprus anarchist group
THE BASES OF DEATH MUST BE BURNED TO THE GROUND
THE BASES OF DEATH MUST BE BURNED TO THE GROUND
While in Afghanistan (Attagar region) the globalised murderers continue to exterminate “terrorists” with ongoing bombing-raids, at the same time they are getting ready for yet another crime against humanity in Iraq.
Until now, 1,700,000 people have lost their lives, due to the intervention of the notorious murderer Bush in 1991 and the 11-year embargo imposed by the Security Council. In 1991, in Iraq, 1,300 tons of radioactive materials were discharged, resulting in the increase of leukaemia incidences. Moreover, thousands of children died of typhoid fever, because of the prohibition on imports of chlorine and water- sanitising machinery.
Without doubt, the coming war will be waged, in order to safeguard the political, economic and strategic interests of the dominators, as much in Iraq as in the wider region. Controlling and exploiting the oil of the Middle East, is the most important goal of the USA, to enable them to expand their global dominance. Because of this desire they have, they support various tyrannical regimes such as the Zionist state of Israel, thus contributing to the ongoing massacres of the Palestinians since they equip the army of their lackey, the scum Ariel Sharon.
On 28/01/2003 a whole British armada has arrived at the Akrotiri base. It is the largest (!) that is assembled since the war in the Falkland Islands in 1982 and has already departed for the Persian Gulf. At the same time, the British forces have started exercising relentlessly on land, air and sea.
Could the Cypriot companies not participate, given also the consent of the local authoritarian scum? Surely not. They supplied the British fleet with military gear and 80 tons of provisions! Also, since last December, the “peace loving” Cypriot state has given in to the demands of the Anglo-Americans, granting them permission to use the aerospace, the airports and seaports, to conveniently execute this inhuman atrocity. Every day it offers every assistance and facilitation to their warships, taking security measures during the loading of cargo and providing police escort to the convoys transporting material from the port to the bases.
Since last July, we anarchists-antiauthoritarians that were actively opposed to the installation of the giant antenna in the Akrotiri base, we emphasised that apart from the spying and harmful to the health antennas, equally important and crucial is the role of the bases, in the planned mass murders, in state terror (Afghanistan, Iraq…). Unfortunately it seems that, what we claimed are proved correct. But we do not stop here: in a time when words lose their meaning, the massacres of the wars are called “humanitarian interventions” (!), the real terrorists (the states and bosses) are labelled “liberators” (!), we recommend the immediate destruction of all authoritarian structures. As anarchists-antiauthoritarians we do not apply ourselves to decrees of protest (that always result in nothing) or in peaceful demonstrations, but we aspire to the demolition/burning/destruction of all bases. Moreover we deem necessary to abstain/cast void ballot in the coming presidential elections, because those who ask for our vote (irrespective of political colouration), are indirectly participating in the military operations of death.
DEATH TO THE BOSSES, LOCAL AND GLOBAL
While in Afghanistan (Attagar region) the globalised murderers continue to exterminate “terrorists” with ongoing bombing-raids, at the same time they are getting ready for yet another crime against humanity in Iraq.
Until now, 1,700,000 people have lost their lives, due to the intervention of the notorious murderer Bush in 1991 and the 11-year embargo imposed by the Security Council. In 1991, in Iraq, 1,300 tons of radioactive materials were discharged, resulting in the increase of leukaemia incidences. Moreover, thousands of children died of typhoid fever, because of the prohibition on imports of chlorine and water- sanitising machinery.
Without doubt, the coming war will be waged, in order to safeguard the political, economic and strategic interests of the dominators, as much in Iraq as in the wider region. Controlling and exploiting the oil of the Middle East, is the most important goal of the USA, to enable them to expand their global dominance. Because of this desire they have, they support various tyrannical regimes such as the Zionist state of Israel, thus contributing to the ongoing massacres of the Palestinians since they equip the army of their lackey, the scum Ariel Sharon.
On 28/01/2003 a whole British armada has arrived at the Akrotiri base. It is the largest (!) that is assembled since the war in the Falkland Islands in 1982 and has already departed for the Persian Gulf. At the same time, the British forces have started exercising relentlessly on land, air and sea.
Could the Cypriot companies not participate, given also the consent of the local authoritarian scum? Surely not. They supplied the British fleet with military gear and 80 tons of provisions! Also, since last December, the “peace loving” Cypriot state has given in to the demands of the Anglo-Americans, granting them permission to use the aerospace, the airports and seaports, to conveniently execute this inhuman atrocity. Every day it offers every assistance and facilitation to their warships, taking security measures during the loading of cargo and providing police escort to the convoys transporting material from the port to the bases.
Since last July, we anarchists-antiauthoritarians that were actively opposed to the installation of the giant antenna in the Akrotiri base, we emphasised that apart from the spying and harmful to the health antennas, equally important and crucial is the role of the bases, in the planned mass murders, in state terror (Afghanistan, Iraq…). Unfortunately it seems that, what we claimed are proved correct. But we do not stop here: in a time when words lose their meaning, the massacres of the wars are called “humanitarian interventions” (!), the real terrorists (the states and bosses) are labelled “liberators” (!), we recommend the immediate destruction of all authoritarian structures. As anarchists-antiauthoritarians we do not apply ourselves to decrees of protest (that always result in nothing) or in peaceful demonstrations, but we aspire to the demolition/burning/destruction of all bases. Moreover we deem necessary to abstain/cast void ballot in the coming presidential elections, because those who ask for our vote (irrespective of political colouration), are indirectly participating in the military operations of death.
DEATH TO THE BOSSES, LOCAL AND GLOBAL
SOLIDARITY WITH SOTIRIS MARANGOS
SOLIDARITY WITH SOTIRIS MARANGOS ON TRIAL FOR DEMONSTRATING HIS SOLIDARITY TO THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE
A few leagues over the sea from Cyprus the physical and cultural extermination of a whole people is being put into act by one of the most sophisticated and well equipped armies in the world. The latter (with weapons ranging from exploding chocolate bars to tanks and bombs) has been terrorising and murdering unarmed men women and children for years, bulldozing their homes and schools, rounding up thousands of young men into concentration camps without any hope of release. This crazed massacre began when the population of Palestine were suddenly pushed the out of their homes and their land to make room for ‘the chosen race’, anyone of Jewish religion no matter which part of the world they came from. The settlers, themselves victims of racism and persecution, had the way paved for them by Britain in the Balfour Treaty. Many were later ‘victims of history’, survivors of the holocaust which their Zionist leaders had turned a blind eye to in exchange for a return to the promised land.
The immediate reaction of the local Arab inhabitants to this incursion was not one of hostility. They accepted the newcomers to share and work their land in a more or less communitarian fashion. But Palestine, now Israel, is an essential strategic point in the middle east for interests that will stop at nothing in order to maintain power and plunder the world’s resources, particularly oil. The USA backed the Zionist, Statist element of the Jewish people and set about financing an arsenal of war that has transformed peaceful settlers into ruthless colonisers, extending their borders and pushing the Palestinians into the desert. Those of them who were allowed to remain within the ‘promised land’ or to enter it daily through a number of check points manned by brutal Israeli soldiers have become an underclass, useful only as a source of cheap labour for the Israeli economy. Pushed beyond the limits of endurance the Palestinian people, particularly young boys armed with nothing but stones, began to rebel against the murder and humiliation. In response, the Israeli State has accentuated military measures in an attempt to eradicate the rebellion of the oppressed. But the Palestinian youths have nothing to lose. Possessing nothing but their dignity, with no future but the struggle for survival and that of their families, they carry on fighting relentlessly. Attempts to quell the rebellion by setting up a Palestinian State with its own repressive structures under Arafat have failed. A third oppressor did not lose time in appearing on the scene: militant Islam in the form of Hamas and El Fatah. These ruthless organisations began recruiting young boys who in their short lives have seen thousands of their own people massacred in broad daylight. With the Koran in one hand and a belt of explosives in the other, they have succeeded in conditioning many of the latter to carry out suicide attacks against the Israeli population as they go about their daily activity in buses, cafes, in the market places. The horror of this is familiar to all of us through the media. The latter, faithful to their paymasters, give detailed photographic coverage of these tragic events thereby pulling a smokescreen over our eyes and supplying us with prefabricated opinions. We fall prey to their deliberate bias, jump up and bite the bait screaming ‘terrorist’ ‘kill them all’ at the first sight of blood. Meanwhile the real terrorists, the States (all States) with their armies and projects of war enjoy the consensus of the ignorant horde we have become, endorsing, or at best ignoring the daily terror exercised against the whole of the Palestinian people to name but one example.
The disgusting level that this indifference concerning the fate of the Palestinian people has reached was exemplified in the Israeli ambassador to Cyprus’ decision to gaily throw a party to celebrate the anniversary of his bloodthirsty State, inviting many local worthies and businessmen. The Cypriot State, busily engaged in changing its image from ‘banana republic’ to that of ‘the Switzerland of the Mediterranean’ with an eye to entrance into the European Union, got round this tricky question (after all, business is business) by advising the Ambassador to have his party at home instead of in the Hilton as he had desired. The more prominent politicians, Clerides in the lead, decided to decline the invitation.
That night the guests who did turn up to the celebration of slaughter were surprised to find a reception committee awaiting them in front of the Ambassador’s residence. A large crowd of protestors, their hearts brimming with anger and indignance at this disgusting parade of insensibility and self interest in the worst sense, shouted slogans and tried to prevent guests from entering. Also present were the inevitable and well equipped riot police, guard dogs of the interests of capital.always ready to attack any place, any time, in exchange for a pat on the back from their masters. And this they did, brutally beating demonstrators who, naturally, did what they could to defend themselves.
In the scuffles that ensued, a number of people were taken to the police station and severely beaten. One, anarchist George Karakasian, was so badly beaten that he was taken to hospital by the police themselves. When he called next day for further treatment, his medical records had ‘disappeared’. He has since completed four months of a seven month sentence concerning these events after being accused of ‘assaulting a police officer’ and refusing to take an apologetic attitude or ask the court for leniency, affirming his solidarity with the Palestinian people.
In the meantime the media, true to their nature as police informers, handed over a video recording of events to the police and further arrests were made.
Anarchist Sotiris Marangos was one of those arrested and charged with assaulting a police officer. He trial has dragged on for several months during which time a dissonant chorus of cops have recanted accounts worthy of a comic opera in their unconcealed attempt to have Sotiris sentenced for what in fact was a crowd situation on a dark night .
We are not here to enter into the minutiae of judicial wrangling over people’s destiny. We know the idea of ‘ justice’ that festers behind the closed doors of a squalid courtroom. Centuries of prison have been dealt out to the dispossessed from within these walls in the interests of the maintenance of power and privilege.
On the contrary, we are here to demonstrate our solidarity with Sotitiris the comrade, the individual who lives according to his ideas with coherence and passion and whom we want with us in the multifarious facets of an exaggerated practice of freedom.
In Sotiri’s own words: The most beautiful moment is when the clash against all the things that oppress us expresses our passion for equality and solidarity. This passion cannot be destroyed. The insurrectional flame, the will for life, will pass through the rubble of the prisons and the courts, because they can’t capture a free man by putting him in a cell. Even the most inhuman power of authority is not enough to erase what we have in us. It cannot crush what we are fighting for, what pushes us and what we are pushing for, all of us: the social revolution, when the free expression of human nature won’t just be an abstract concept but will take life from the same passion that fires us to fight.
Solidarity with Sotiris Marangos
in Nicosia main Court 28/01/03!
Solidarity with the Palestinian insurrection!
A few leagues over the sea from Cyprus the physical and cultural extermination of a whole people is being put into act by one of the most sophisticated and well equipped armies in the world. The latter (with weapons ranging from exploding chocolate bars to tanks and bombs) has been terrorising and murdering unarmed men women and children for years, bulldozing their homes and schools, rounding up thousands of young men into concentration camps without any hope of release. This crazed massacre began when the population of Palestine were suddenly pushed the out of their homes and their land to make room for ‘the chosen race’, anyone of Jewish religion no matter which part of the world they came from. The settlers, themselves victims of racism and persecution, had the way paved for them by Britain in the Balfour Treaty. Many were later ‘victims of history’, survivors of the holocaust which their Zionist leaders had turned a blind eye to in exchange for a return to the promised land.
The immediate reaction of the local Arab inhabitants to this incursion was not one of hostility. They accepted the newcomers to share and work their land in a more or less communitarian fashion. But Palestine, now Israel, is an essential strategic point in the middle east for interests that will stop at nothing in order to maintain power and plunder the world’s resources, particularly oil. The USA backed the Zionist, Statist element of the Jewish people and set about financing an arsenal of war that has transformed peaceful settlers into ruthless colonisers, extending their borders and pushing the Palestinians into the desert. Those of them who were allowed to remain within the ‘promised land’ or to enter it daily through a number of check points manned by brutal Israeli soldiers have become an underclass, useful only as a source of cheap labour for the Israeli economy. Pushed beyond the limits of endurance the Palestinian people, particularly young boys armed with nothing but stones, began to rebel against the murder and humiliation. In response, the Israeli State has accentuated military measures in an attempt to eradicate the rebellion of the oppressed. But the Palestinian youths have nothing to lose. Possessing nothing but their dignity, with no future but the struggle for survival and that of their families, they carry on fighting relentlessly. Attempts to quell the rebellion by setting up a Palestinian State with its own repressive structures under Arafat have failed. A third oppressor did not lose time in appearing on the scene: militant Islam in the form of Hamas and El Fatah. These ruthless organisations began recruiting young boys who in their short lives have seen thousands of their own people massacred in broad daylight. With the Koran in one hand and a belt of explosives in the other, they have succeeded in conditioning many of the latter to carry out suicide attacks against the Israeli population as they go about their daily activity in buses, cafes, in the market places. The horror of this is familiar to all of us through the media. The latter, faithful to their paymasters, give detailed photographic coverage of these tragic events thereby pulling a smokescreen over our eyes and supplying us with prefabricated opinions. We fall prey to their deliberate bias, jump up and bite the bait screaming ‘terrorist’ ‘kill them all’ at the first sight of blood. Meanwhile the real terrorists, the States (all States) with their armies and projects of war enjoy the consensus of the ignorant horde we have become, endorsing, or at best ignoring the daily terror exercised against the whole of the Palestinian people to name but one example.
The disgusting level that this indifference concerning the fate of the Palestinian people has reached was exemplified in the Israeli ambassador to Cyprus’ decision to gaily throw a party to celebrate the anniversary of his bloodthirsty State, inviting many local worthies and businessmen. The Cypriot State, busily engaged in changing its image from ‘banana republic’ to that of ‘the Switzerland of the Mediterranean’ with an eye to entrance into the European Union, got round this tricky question (after all, business is business) by advising the Ambassador to have his party at home instead of in the Hilton as he had desired. The more prominent politicians, Clerides in the lead, decided to decline the invitation.
That night the guests who did turn up to the celebration of slaughter were surprised to find a reception committee awaiting them in front of the Ambassador’s residence. A large crowd of protestors, their hearts brimming with anger and indignance at this disgusting parade of insensibility and self interest in the worst sense, shouted slogans and tried to prevent guests from entering. Also present were the inevitable and well equipped riot police, guard dogs of the interests of capital.always ready to attack any place, any time, in exchange for a pat on the back from their masters. And this they did, brutally beating demonstrators who, naturally, did what they could to defend themselves.
In the scuffles that ensued, a number of people were taken to the police station and severely beaten. One, anarchist George Karakasian, was so badly beaten that he was taken to hospital by the police themselves. When he called next day for further treatment, his medical records had ‘disappeared’. He has since completed four months of a seven month sentence concerning these events after being accused of ‘assaulting a police officer’ and refusing to take an apologetic attitude or ask the court for leniency, affirming his solidarity with the Palestinian people.
In the meantime the media, true to their nature as police informers, handed over a video recording of events to the police and further arrests were made.
Anarchist Sotiris Marangos was one of those arrested and charged with assaulting a police officer. He trial has dragged on for several months during which time a dissonant chorus of cops have recanted accounts worthy of a comic opera in their unconcealed attempt to have Sotiris sentenced for what in fact was a crowd situation on a dark night .
We are not here to enter into the minutiae of judicial wrangling over people’s destiny. We know the idea of ‘ justice’ that festers behind the closed doors of a squalid courtroom. Centuries of prison have been dealt out to the dispossessed from within these walls in the interests of the maintenance of power and privilege.
On the contrary, we are here to demonstrate our solidarity with Sotitiris the comrade, the individual who lives according to his ideas with coherence and passion and whom we want with us in the multifarious facets of an exaggerated practice of freedom.
In Sotiri’s own words: The most beautiful moment is when the clash against all the things that oppress us expresses our passion for equality and solidarity. This passion cannot be destroyed. The insurrectional flame, the will for life, will pass through the rubble of the prisons and the courts, because they can’t capture a free man by putting him in a cell. Even the most inhuman power of authority is not enough to erase what we have in us. It cannot crush what we are fighting for, what pushes us and what we are pushing for, all of us: the social revolution, when the free expression of human nature won’t just be an abstract concept but will take life from the same passion that fires us to fight.
Solidarity with Sotiris Marangos
in Nicosia main Court 28/01/03!
Solidarity with the Palestinian insurrection!
Trial of anarchist George Papadopoulos
Trial of anarchist George Papadopoulos
in British military court in Cyprus 04/07/03
The British court at Episkopi military base summoned anarchist George Papadopoulos to be tried concerning events that took place during recent demonstrations against the bases.
Before the charges were read out, our comrade insisted that he wished to refer to the reasons for his prosecution and make some comments. The judge refuses, saying that he must first plead “guilty” or “not guilty” to the charges…
G.P: I refuse to plead in such a way and I want to say a few things concerning my case.
Judge: There is a certain procedure to be respected. No one can just come here and say whatever they wish. Are you so special that you don’t want the rules that apply for others to apply for yourself?
… The judge finally says he will be given time afterwards to say what he wants, and three charges for two separate cases are read out to him:
J: Case one. In July 2002 you assaulted British Sovereign Base police officer Marios Petrou. Also you assaulted the same officer during the course of his duty.
G.P: What happened is responsive violence against the violence of the State. Also, whatever happened cannot even be compared with the murders carried out by States all over the world.
J: Case two. In March 2003 you participated in an unlawful assembly at Akrotiri British Base.
G.P: I consider this charge to be completely ludicrous. It would be funny, if there weren’t certain motivations behind it.
J: It will be recorded that the accused refused to plead to the charges. Legally, this is equivalent to a “not guilty” plea.
… Later, our comrade expressed his views on the matter:
G.P: I am innocent, I consider my prosecution illegitimate, and that it is quite absurd for me to be standing here. You should be in my place instead (he points at the judge, the prosecutor, the translator and the stenographer), the policemen (points at some cops who are in the court), all those whose work contributes to massacres while they say they are just doing their job. Also your insane leaders, the killers responsible for crimes against humanity in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Balkans … (he is interrupted by the judge).
The prosecutor insists that our comrade pay CY£200 bail in cash (!) because he deemed it probable that George would not turn up for the next court appearance. The comrade replied that, first, he considers this trial a continuation of his social struggle and, second, that he had turned up in court even though the summons had not been given to him personally. The judge did not impose bail, but made him sign a bond to reappear in court with a CY£500 fine if he fails to do so.
The hearing has been set for 3rd of November, and the judge says that he will devote the whole week to this case (!).
SOLIDARITY WITH PERSECUTED SOCIAL FIGHTERS
BURN ALL THE BASES AROUND THE WORLD
FREEDOM TO THE PEOPLE ARRESTED IN SALONICA 21/06/2003
Cyprus anarchist nucleus
Exegersi2002@yahoo.com
www.geocities.com/anarxikos_pirinas_kiprou
in British military court in Cyprus 04/07/03
The British court at Episkopi military base summoned anarchist George Papadopoulos to be tried concerning events that took place during recent demonstrations against the bases.
Before the charges were read out, our comrade insisted that he wished to refer to the reasons for his prosecution and make some comments. The judge refuses, saying that he must first plead “guilty” or “not guilty” to the charges…
G.P: I refuse to plead in such a way and I want to say a few things concerning my case.
Judge: There is a certain procedure to be respected. No one can just come here and say whatever they wish. Are you so special that you don’t want the rules that apply for others to apply for yourself?
… The judge finally says he will be given time afterwards to say what he wants, and three charges for two separate cases are read out to him:
J: Case one. In July 2002 you assaulted British Sovereign Base police officer Marios Petrou. Also you assaulted the same officer during the course of his duty.
G.P: What happened is responsive violence against the violence of the State. Also, whatever happened cannot even be compared with the murders carried out by States all over the world.
J: Case two. In March 2003 you participated in an unlawful assembly at Akrotiri British Base.
G.P: I consider this charge to be completely ludicrous. It would be funny, if there weren’t certain motivations behind it.
J: It will be recorded that the accused refused to plead to the charges. Legally, this is equivalent to a “not guilty” plea.
… Later, our comrade expressed his views on the matter:
G.P: I am innocent, I consider my prosecution illegitimate, and that it is quite absurd for me to be standing here. You should be in my place instead (he points at the judge, the prosecutor, the translator and the stenographer), the policemen (points at some cops who are in the court), all those whose work contributes to massacres while they say they are just doing their job. Also your insane leaders, the killers responsible for crimes against humanity in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Balkans … (he is interrupted by the judge).
The prosecutor insists that our comrade pay CY£200 bail in cash (!) because he deemed it probable that George would not turn up for the next court appearance. The comrade replied that, first, he considers this trial a continuation of his social struggle and, second, that he had turned up in court even though the summons had not been given to him personally. The judge did not impose bail, but made him sign a bond to reappear in court with a CY£500 fine if he fails to do so.
The hearing has been set for 3rd of November, and the judge says that he will devote the whole week to this case (!).
SOLIDARITY WITH PERSECUTED SOCIAL FIGHTERS
BURN ALL THE BASES AROUND THE WORLD
FREEDOM TO THE PEOPLE ARRESTED IN SALONICA 21/06/2003
Cyprus anarchist nucleus
Exegersi2002@yahoo.com
www.geocities.com/anarxikos_pirinas_kiprou
RESISTANCE AGAINST THE PLANS OF THE DOMINATORS
Note: The present passage was written on 11-16 December 2002 (period of the Cyprus entry into the European Union) by anarchist prisoner Giorgos Garakasian in the jails of free Cypriot democracy.
Through the general secretary of United Criminals Kofi Anan the Americans and British have been attempting for some time now to impose a ‘fair and viable solution’ upon the inhabitants of Cyprus.
The period that we are living in is characterised by the reorganisation of global dominion, which has completed its first phase of ‘anti-terrorist’ hysteria with the devastating intervention in Afghanistan, the prisoners of war in Guantanamo as well as the intensification of submission in the abyss of social stratification.
In the next phase we await further developments of dominion in light of the war against Iraq. This is also justifies the last extension of the Nato alliance during the EU Summit in Prague (20-22 /11/ 02) with the addition of new allies (Estonia, Lithuania, Letonia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Rumania and Bulgaria). The words of infamous murderer Bush and his clan are verified once again (you’re either with us or you are with the terrorists) as well as the intentions of the powers that be to gain the complicity of more States in their military raids of global dominion, preserving a point of contact between the USA, Europe and Russia where they will arm themselves and effect exchanges in the arms industry and ‘new technologies’.
In this time frame there is a growing need for accession into the European empire of two competing countries, Cyprus and Turkey who are hoping to benefit from negotiations in the Copenhagen summit (12-13/12/02). In the eventuality of accession of the two states to the European Union the long-term plans of the U.S.A. and the multinational powers concerning the favourable control of the Eastern Mediterranean will be fulfilled. In this way the geographical piece of the puzzle that includes the area from the Caspian oil wells to the Suez canal will fall into place. This does not of course mean the accession of the ongoing partition of Cyprus which has been a headache to most regimes for the past 28 years.
In this effort to enforce a ‘Fair Solution’, the original ‘Anan Plan’ that has been given is being revised since the rulers of both States have brought objections concerning regional ‘demands’. Both the revision of the plan and the imposed time limit for the ‘solution’ (28/3/2003) are considered final.
The question that stands is whether the will and the way exists for the people to overthrow the continuing deprivation of free movement and settlement, communication and symbiosis that have been formulated by the authoritarian relations at their expense.
‘Greek-’ and ‘Turkish-Cypriot’ Relations
The most recent bi-communal activities (?epanaproseggisi?, Social Forum for Peace 1/9/2002) have shown that a substantial percentage desire the reunification of the island and the symbiosis of all its inhabitants. Even though the ?epanaproseggisis? activities are organised and supervised by the United Nations they are, for the time being, a meeting and communication ground between ‘Greek-’ and ‘Turkish-Cypriots’. However we must beware not to be fooled by these activities, organised through the dominant propaganda and carried out to highlight the ‘leading’ role of the U.N., behind which is concealed the rotten ‘peace’ of authority, the aim being the consensus of the Cypriot society. It would be desirable to contribute to an effort to promote self-organised meetings between ‘Greek-’ and ‘Turkish-Cypriots’, both in the present and in the future, without mediators and party-dogs who, in feigning monopolise ‘peace’ to their own advantage. For example, e-mail and/or telecommunication could be used to organise at a favourable spot frequent meetings of people who are against the partition and the imposing of a new world order.
Sadly we would like to point out the fact that the overwhelming majority of people who attend these activities are ‘Turkish-Cypriots’. It appears that the living conditions of each person directly influence their way of thought.
Examining the situation which prevails in the northern part of the island, we see that the ‘Turkish-Cypriot State’ intensifies oppression and misery, intimidating the ‘Turkish-Cypriot’ minority. The fact that nationalistic-neofascist elements (TMT B’, VOLKAN, K.G.), which in the past took a decisive part in the separation of and the spreading of hate amongst people (e.g. executions of ‘Turkish-Cypriot’ workers), are regrouped is not coinicidental.
We come to the conclusion that Statist-totalitarianism is solely responsible for the great massacres of the past few years.
The ‘Anan Plan’ and reactions in favour of it.
The ‘Greek-Cypriot’ side
The immediate reaction of the Greek Cypriot leadership is considered to be the most reactionary of the past decade.
On the basis of the history of the Greek Cypriot right who have always held highly nationalist positions, is now being presented as the most ….., for this surely serves the interests of its pimps. The ‘right’ accepts the pioneers of the plan(from Clerides to Yasilion). They will also ensure the immense economic interests of merchants and industrialists which are administered by the nouveau riche and those who look forward to the legal rule of the new ‘federal State’.
In the ‘opposing’ front those who rejected the ‘Annan plan’ were the church and the Greek nationalist party dogs (Neo ……………………..) They spoke of ‘treason, selling out and the final partition… we will become a protectorate of Turkey…’
As to whether we will become a ‘protectorate of Turkey’ as they claim, we remind them that
within ‘Cyprus territory’ there are 7 different armies (Greek, Cypriot, UN, Nato, Turkey, British and Turkish Cypriot). Are we not already a protectorate of global imperialism?
The ‘Turkish Cypriot’ side
The angry and persecuted Turkish Cypriots, seeing the Anker policy and the fascist … as their only way out rushed into a mass demonstration ‘for the plan for a solution and peace’ of the Cypriot problem. The media called it the biggest demo (20,000) a fact that Denktash rushed to discredit, actually declaring that this does not represent the majority of the Turkish Cypriot.
The Turkish Cypriot yuppies who undoubtedly will benefit from the ‘solution’ by increasing their capital are obviously also in favour of the solution.
A few days later the Denktash regime with dozens of Nationalist-Fascist organisations, is attempting to ???? the ‘positive’ atmosphere of acceptance of the plan, inviting a counter- demonstration, with the main slogan being ‘Yes to peace, no to the Anan plan’.
In a speech by the authoritarian abomination he defends the partition position, highlighting the need for recognition of his ‘super-State’ (joint-rule on condition) – let it be noted that on the 13/12/2002 the day of the Cyprus accession into the EU, Turkish Cypriots had a demonstration, with slogans on placards such as ‘We are not Turks
We are not Greeks
We are Cypriots’
Recently the timeless anarchist slogan has appeared on the walls of the cities: ‘Down with nations and armies, our country is the whole earth.’
Who?
Today’s … rulers, who without the consent of the people (which is always the way) signed the Zurich-London agreements, positioning Turkey, Britain and Greece as guaranteeing powers on the island.
Who?
Those who derided the people in ‘Makariakus’ ‘Gririkous’ and other ?euphemisms, who aided in the anti-communist campaign which killed more ‘fellow countrymen’ than ‘enemies’!
Who?
Those who are asking for human rights whilst marching shouting ‘Good Turk = dead Turk’ in an effort to flair racist hatred between the two communities.
The anarchist- anti-authoritarian position.
The ongoing tragedy that the inhabitants of Cyprus are subjected to is due solely to competing power relations and disputes about the continual security of the economic, political and strategic interests of the ….. on the island and surrounding area.
As anarchists and anti-authoritarians we propose an anti-State …… struggle, which we ….. on a daily basis both within and without the partition borders of States and capitalism.
Our comrade is every oppressed person, our enemy the dictatorship of global rule that is enforced with the ?exorcism, exploitation and oppression of ‘man’ against man.
The only solution for which we are fighting is the fulfilment of a local-bicommunal and global revolution. To put the ….. of humanity where they belong, in dusty history books.
Through the general secretary of United Criminals Kofi Anan the Americans and British have been attempting for some time now to impose a ‘fair and viable solution’ upon the inhabitants of Cyprus.
The period that we are living in is characterised by the reorganisation of global dominion, which has completed its first phase of ‘anti-terrorist’ hysteria with the devastating intervention in Afghanistan, the prisoners of war in Guantanamo as well as the intensification of submission in the abyss of social stratification.
In the next phase we await further developments of dominion in light of the war against Iraq. This is also justifies the last extension of the Nato alliance during the EU Summit in Prague (20-22 /11/ 02) with the addition of new allies (Estonia, Lithuania, Letonia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Rumania and Bulgaria). The words of infamous murderer Bush and his clan are verified once again (you’re either with us or you are with the terrorists) as well as the intentions of the powers that be to gain the complicity of more States in their military raids of global dominion, preserving a point of contact between the USA, Europe and Russia where they will arm themselves and effect exchanges in the arms industry and ‘new technologies’.
In this time frame there is a growing need for accession into the European empire of two competing countries, Cyprus and Turkey who are hoping to benefit from negotiations in the Copenhagen summit (12-13/12/02). In the eventuality of accession of the two states to the European Union the long-term plans of the U.S.A. and the multinational powers concerning the favourable control of the Eastern Mediterranean will be fulfilled. In this way the geographical piece of the puzzle that includes the area from the Caspian oil wells to the Suez canal will fall into place. This does not of course mean the accession of the ongoing partition of Cyprus which has been a headache to most regimes for the past 28 years.
In this effort to enforce a ‘Fair Solution’, the original ‘Anan Plan’ that has been given is being revised since the rulers of both States have brought objections concerning regional ‘demands’. Both the revision of the plan and the imposed time limit for the ‘solution’ (28/3/2003) are considered final.
The question that stands is whether the will and the way exists for the people to overthrow the continuing deprivation of free movement and settlement, communication and symbiosis that have been formulated by the authoritarian relations at their expense.
‘Greek-’ and ‘Turkish-Cypriot’ Relations
The most recent bi-communal activities (?epanaproseggisi?, Social Forum for Peace 1/9/2002) have shown that a substantial percentage desire the reunification of the island and the symbiosis of all its inhabitants. Even though the ?epanaproseggisis? activities are organised and supervised by the United Nations they are, for the time being, a meeting and communication ground between ‘Greek-’ and ‘Turkish-Cypriots’. However we must beware not to be fooled by these activities, organised through the dominant propaganda and carried out to highlight the ‘leading’ role of the U.N., behind which is concealed the rotten ‘peace’ of authority, the aim being the consensus of the Cypriot society. It would be desirable to contribute to an effort to promote self-organised meetings between ‘Greek-’ and ‘Turkish-Cypriots’, both in the present and in the future, without mediators and party-dogs who, in feigning monopolise ‘peace’ to their own advantage. For example, e-mail and/or telecommunication could be used to organise at a favourable spot frequent meetings of people who are against the partition and the imposing of a new world order.
Sadly we would like to point out the fact that the overwhelming majority of people who attend these activities are ‘Turkish-Cypriots’. It appears that the living conditions of each person directly influence their way of thought.
Examining the situation which prevails in the northern part of the island, we see that the ‘Turkish-Cypriot State’ intensifies oppression and misery, intimidating the ‘Turkish-Cypriot’ minority. The fact that nationalistic-neofascist elements (TMT B’, VOLKAN, K.G.), which in the past took a decisive part in the separation of and the spreading of hate amongst people (e.g. executions of ‘Turkish-Cypriot’ workers), are regrouped is not coinicidental.
We come to the conclusion that Statist-totalitarianism is solely responsible for the great massacres of the past few years.
The ‘Anan Plan’ and reactions in favour of it.
The ‘Greek-Cypriot’ side
The immediate reaction of the Greek Cypriot leadership is considered to be the most reactionary of the past decade.
On the basis of the history of the Greek Cypriot right who have always held highly nationalist positions, is now being presented as the most ….., for this surely serves the interests of its pimps. The ‘right’ accepts the pioneers of the plan(from Clerides to Yasilion). They will also ensure the immense economic interests of merchants and industrialists which are administered by the nouveau riche and those who look forward to the legal rule of the new ‘federal State’.
In the ‘opposing’ front those who rejected the ‘Annan plan’ were the church and the Greek nationalist party dogs (Neo ……………………..) They spoke of ‘treason, selling out and the final partition… we will become a protectorate of Turkey…’
As to whether we will become a ‘protectorate of Turkey’ as they claim, we remind them that
within ‘Cyprus territory’ there are 7 different armies (Greek, Cypriot, UN, Nato, Turkey, British and Turkish Cypriot). Are we not already a protectorate of global imperialism?
The ‘Turkish Cypriot’ side
The angry and persecuted Turkish Cypriots, seeing the Anker policy and the fascist … as their only way out rushed into a mass demonstration ‘for the plan for a solution and peace’ of the Cypriot problem. The media called it the biggest demo (20,000) a fact that Denktash rushed to discredit, actually declaring that this does not represent the majority of the Turkish Cypriot.
The Turkish Cypriot yuppies who undoubtedly will benefit from the ‘solution’ by increasing their capital are obviously also in favour of the solution.
A few days later the Denktash regime with dozens of Nationalist-Fascist organisations, is attempting to ???? the ‘positive’ atmosphere of acceptance of the plan, inviting a counter- demonstration, with the main slogan being ‘Yes to peace, no to the Anan plan’.
In a speech by the authoritarian abomination he defends the partition position, highlighting the need for recognition of his ‘super-State’ (joint-rule on condition) – let it be noted that on the 13/12/2002 the day of the Cyprus accession into the EU, Turkish Cypriots had a demonstration, with slogans on placards such as ‘We are not Turks
We are not Greeks
We are Cypriots’
Recently the timeless anarchist slogan has appeared on the walls of the cities: ‘Down with nations and armies, our country is the whole earth.’
Who?
Today’s … rulers, who without the consent of the people (which is always the way) signed the Zurich-London agreements, positioning Turkey, Britain and Greece as guaranteeing powers on the island.
Who?
Those who derided the people in ‘Makariakus’ ‘Gririkous’ and other ?euphemisms, who aided in the anti-communist campaign which killed more ‘fellow countrymen’ than ‘enemies’!
Who?
Those who are asking for human rights whilst marching shouting ‘Good Turk = dead Turk’ in an effort to flair racist hatred between the two communities.
The anarchist- anti-authoritarian position.
The ongoing tragedy that the inhabitants of Cyprus are subjected to is due solely to competing power relations and disputes about the continual security of the economic, political and strategic interests of the ….. on the island and surrounding area.
As anarchists and anti-authoritarians we propose an anti-State …… struggle, which we ….. on a daily basis both within and without the partition borders of States and capitalism.
Our comrade is every oppressed person, our enemy the dictatorship of global rule that is enforced with the ?exorcism, exploitation and oppression of ‘man’ against man.
The only solution for which we are fighting is the fulfilment of a local-bicommunal and global revolution. To put the ….. of humanity where they belong, in dusty history books.
Letter to some Turkish comrades
Dear comrades
First, we are writing to let you know that our comrade George Karakasian was freed from prison in December after serving four months of a seven month sentence. (He will have to serve the other three months if he is arrested again over the next five years.) So, we are very happy to have George back with us.
Now it is the turn of Sotitiris Marangos to face the judge (the same Papamichael who got promotion for sentencing George). The final hearing is set for 28/01/03, when the judge is due to pronounce the verdict.
Meanwhile we have been carrying on with our activity in various sectors – in manifestations against the imminent war against Iraq, in the diffusion of a critique of the ‘Annan Plan’ where we urge people to insurge against all States, without national or international flags, and we’re also beginning some work against the impending elections.
We now have a web site which we are working on, so you can find further information about our activities there, as well as the texts of some of our leaflets.
Apart from sending you the above info, the reason we are writing to you now is that we would like to establish closer contact with you, and receive, if possible, contacts for anarchists or groups who might be interested in an exchange of ideas with a view to an eventual collaboration in the struggle. We are particularly interested in contacting anarchists in the north of Cyprus and making ourselves known to them.
First, we are writing to let you know that our comrade George Karakasian was freed from prison in December after serving four months of a seven month sentence. (He will have to serve the other three months if he is arrested again over the next five years.) So, we are very happy to have George back with us.
Now it is the turn of Sotitiris Marangos to face the judge (the same Papamichael who got promotion for sentencing George). The final hearing is set for 28/01/03, when the judge is due to pronounce the verdict.
Meanwhile we have been carrying on with our activity in various sectors – in manifestations against the imminent war against Iraq, in the diffusion of a critique of the ‘Annan Plan’ where we urge people to insurge against all States, without national or international flags, and we’re also beginning some work against the impending elections.
We now have a web site which we are working on, so you can find further information about our activities there, as well as the texts of some of our leaflets.
Apart from sending you the above info, the reason we are writing to you now is that we would like to establish closer contact with you, and receive, if possible, contacts for anarchists or groups who might be interested in an exchange of ideas with a view to an eventual collaboration in the struggle. We are particularly interested in contacting anarchists in the north of Cyprus and making ourselves known to them.
ON DEMOS ETC
No one can have any doubts left concerning the truly fascist nature of modern democracy as before the eyes of the world thousands of State mercenaries continue their job of mass slaughter in the interests of dominion and profit.
The project of massacre in course in Iraq involves the lives of hundreds of thousands of defenceless men women children. It has destroyed the infratructure of a whole country, and created the conditions for civil war. It has led to huge demonstrations more or less everywhere in the world, showing the vast reaches of dissent concerning this unconcealed act of State terrorism. Millions of people came out into the streets to demonstrate, walking for miles carrying flags and banners, beating drums, shouting slogans. The organisers, greens, ecologists, pacifists, trades unionists, social forums, laid on buses and routes were mapped out in advance in collaboration with the forces of order. At the end of the day they came home to see confirmation of their efforts on the TV screen. Tired, but with the euphoria of quantity taken to epic proportions, they could say, Yes, today we really did something against the War. We have shown our solidarity to the people of Iraq. Now we must get back to work tomorrow and wait…
And if it were all one grotesque farce? If instead of ‘stopping the War’ these demonstrations, in spite of the sincerity of the participants, actually foster the great illusion that we are living in a society where we have a say in the running of our lives, and that those who rule take account of what we desire? If they have become an integral part of the spectacle of war? Dissent is an essential part of participatory democracy. It excites comedians like Bush and Blair, stimulates their rhetoric, gives them an interlocutor. To come out in vast numbers merely to say No to the war reassures the warlords. The illusion of quantity ‘…surely if enough of us say ‘no’ our elected leaders will take heed…’ keeps people from acting. It keeps everything visible, under control.
These demonstrations start from two macroscopic errors: they see the war as one circumscribed event, and believe that through numbers they can put pressure on the decision-making centres to make them change their minds, thus contributing to fostering myths such as ‘peace’ and ‘free speech’ under capital.
The illusion of ‘free speech’ is the first obstacle that must be overcome if we are to clear the field for action. The words of the enemy are inserted within the whole framework of social, political and economic relations: political parties, media, work, school, government etc, backed by the ultimate threat of police army and prison. When Bush utters monosyllabic diatribes against ‘terrorism’ and the need to attack Iraq, this is not one side of a discussion in a pub or over the dinner table. Behind his words exists a whole arsenal of ‘men’ and weapons ready to go into action wherever the order is given. Against this, the slaves of democracy have the right to say ‘no’. They can sign petitions and hand them into parliament. They can put up posters, hand out leaflets. But only so far as the are words are an end in themselves, empty words (e.g. ‘Stop the War’, ‘Give Peace a Chance’) which by their very nature block the road to action.
Here we should clarify that when we say ‘action’ we mean propulsive deeds that transform reality, not symbolic gestures which, although they sometimes cause damage to the instruments of the enemy, do so within a media-orientated context by a activist minority separate from the exploited. The destructive element is defused and recuperated by the logic of specialisation and the tactical choices of a political, not a social, entity. Real attack on the other hand can take many forms, including the seemingly ‘peaceful’ ones of leaflets, posters and graffiti, when these contain a social and economic analysis of the question and indications of possible action.
The military attack on Iraq, although in itself a specific event, cannot be seen as something separate from the war capital wages every moment of the day in a thousand guises. This is not a maximalist statement aimed at making the problem so vast that we can't act on the specific aspects of this reality. On the contrary. The closer we examine this state of global war, the easier it becomes to identify the enemy in concrete economic and military structures that are tangible and attackable, and to refuse the mediated discourse of the politicians. If our words have meaning in terms of attack, they must be instruments of theory and analysis necessary to opening the road to this destructive perspective within the logic of rebellion and generalised insurrection.
When we said ‘Burn the base of death’ on our banners against the British base in Cyprus that the uniformed killers left from, we meant just that: let’s go now, men women and children, to occupy and destroy the base. When we hand out leaflets analysing the role of a military base, we must also examine the effects that it has on the lives of the local people, bringing the question into a concrete, tangible dimension concerning their own lives. We know that even specific, gross attacks on the exploited such as ‘war’ by capital depend on a whole flux of relations working to perfection, and that these relations are always vulnerable and open to modification. Even a small action, if it is well chosen, not just the expression of frustration and powerlessness, can upset the delicate balance of these relations that depend on mystification, obedience and, when there is discontent, formal dissent. Such attacks cannot wait for the consensus of thousands of people, but the means used must be simple and easily copied to open the way for the attack to spread horizontally in the dimension of rebellion and insurrection.
It can begin any time, anywhere, by small groups of comrades based on affinity. It is the multiplicity of the attacks, their simple nature and possible spreading that makes them a real force, immediately putting the struggle in a social dimension and taking it away from the concept of quantity or symbolic gestures. Groups in one country, or in many countries, can coordinate their actions and give them resonance. No wave of a magic wand can take the place of the work that needs to be done by each one of us starting from now to give ourselves the instruments we need for this attack. Against specific moments of ‘war’ declared by the State we must undertake the relentless – theoretical, analytical and practical – task of destruction of this society of death and, through a joyous awakening of egos, extend the creation of the new world without delay.
AGAINST WAR, AGAINST PEACE, FOR THE SOCIAL REVOLUTION
random anarchists
The project of massacre in course in Iraq involves the lives of hundreds of thousands of defenceless men women children. It has destroyed the infratructure of a whole country, and created the conditions for civil war. It has led to huge demonstrations more or less everywhere in the world, showing the vast reaches of dissent concerning this unconcealed act of State terrorism. Millions of people came out into the streets to demonstrate, walking for miles carrying flags and banners, beating drums, shouting slogans. The organisers, greens, ecologists, pacifists, trades unionists, social forums, laid on buses and routes were mapped out in advance in collaboration with the forces of order. At the end of the day they came home to see confirmation of their efforts on the TV screen. Tired, but with the euphoria of quantity taken to epic proportions, they could say, Yes, today we really did something against the War. We have shown our solidarity to the people of Iraq. Now we must get back to work tomorrow and wait…
And if it were all one grotesque farce? If instead of ‘stopping the War’ these demonstrations, in spite of the sincerity of the participants, actually foster the great illusion that we are living in a society where we have a say in the running of our lives, and that those who rule take account of what we desire? If they have become an integral part of the spectacle of war? Dissent is an essential part of participatory democracy. It excites comedians like Bush and Blair, stimulates their rhetoric, gives them an interlocutor. To come out in vast numbers merely to say No to the war reassures the warlords. The illusion of quantity ‘…surely if enough of us say ‘no’ our elected leaders will take heed…’ keeps people from acting. It keeps everything visible, under control.
These demonstrations start from two macroscopic errors: they see the war as one circumscribed event, and believe that through numbers they can put pressure on the decision-making centres to make them change their minds, thus contributing to fostering myths such as ‘peace’ and ‘free speech’ under capital.
The illusion of ‘free speech’ is the first obstacle that must be overcome if we are to clear the field for action. The words of the enemy are inserted within the whole framework of social, political and economic relations: political parties, media, work, school, government etc, backed by the ultimate threat of police army and prison. When Bush utters monosyllabic diatribes against ‘terrorism’ and the need to attack Iraq, this is not one side of a discussion in a pub or over the dinner table. Behind his words exists a whole arsenal of ‘men’ and weapons ready to go into action wherever the order is given. Against this, the slaves of democracy have the right to say ‘no’. They can sign petitions and hand them into parliament. They can put up posters, hand out leaflets. But only so far as the are words are an end in themselves, empty words (e.g. ‘Stop the War’, ‘Give Peace a Chance’) which by their very nature block the road to action.
Here we should clarify that when we say ‘action’ we mean propulsive deeds that transform reality, not symbolic gestures which, although they sometimes cause damage to the instruments of the enemy, do so within a media-orientated context by a activist minority separate from the exploited. The destructive element is defused and recuperated by the logic of specialisation and the tactical choices of a political, not a social, entity. Real attack on the other hand can take many forms, including the seemingly ‘peaceful’ ones of leaflets, posters and graffiti, when these contain a social and economic analysis of the question and indications of possible action.
The military attack on Iraq, although in itself a specific event, cannot be seen as something separate from the war capital wages every moment of the day in a thousand guises. This is not a maximalist statement aimed at making the problem so vast that we can't act on the specific aspects of this reality. On the contrary. The closer we examine this state of global war, the easier it becomes to identify the enemy in concrete economic and military structures that are tangible and attackable, and to refuse the mediated discourse of the politicians. If our words have meaning in terms of attack, they must be instruments of theory and analysis necessary to opening the road to this destructive perspective within the logic of rebellion and generalised insurrection.
When we said ‘Burn the base of death’ on our banners against the British base in Cyprus that the uniformed killers left from, we meant just that: let’s go now, men women and children, to occupy and destroy the base. When we hand out leaflets analysing the role of a military base, we must also examine the effects that it has on the lives of the local people, bringing the question into a concrete, tangible dimension concerning their own lives. We know that even specific, gross attacks on the exploited such as ‘war’ by capital depend on a whole flux of relations working to perfection, and that these relations are always vulnerable and open to modification. Even a small action, if it is well chosen, not just the expression of frustration and powerlessness, can upset the delicate balance of these relations that depend on mystification, obedience and, when there is discontent, formal dissent. Such attacks cannot wait for the consensus of thousands of people, but the means used must be simple and easily copied to open the way for the attack to spread horizontally in the dimension of rebellion and insurrection.
It can begin any time, anywhere, by small groups of comrades based on affinity. It is the multiplicity of the attacks, their simple nature and possible spreading that makes them a real force, immediately putting the struggle in a social dimension and taking it away from the concept of quantity or symbolic gestures. Groups in one country, or in many countries, can coordinate their actions and give them resonance. No wave of a magic wand can take the place of the work that needs to be done by each one of us starting from now to give ourselves the instruments we need for this attack. Against specific moments of ‘war’ declared by the State we must undertake the relentless – theoretical, analytical and practical – task of destruction of this society of death and, through a joyous awakening of egos, extend the creation of the new world without delay.
AGAINST WAR, AGAINST PEACE, FOR THE SOCIAL REVOLUTION
random anarchists
The photographs shock. Is it possible that there exists an end to all this organised government terrorism of Israel against the tortured and tormented Palestinians?
While the slaughter continues the bastards and common murderers of the European Union and all "developed countries" present themselves as incompetent to intervene. As for the sordid fabrication named the UN, we believe that they are unworthy of any mention.
The Media of mass deceit only show the extreme right positions of Israel, and they never report the big wave of total refusal to join the army that is growing and is in solidarity with the Palestinians.
Last year 62 students declared that they would avoid recruitment, while two of them who are anarchist were jailed.
The previous week another 18 year old anarchist was sentenced to 28 days prison for his refusal to serve.
The army was shaken when 52 senior police officers refused to serve in the Palestinian Territories.
200 Israeli soldiers declared that they refused to continue service
Now that the rabid conflict of States has been accentuated for the distribution of slices of the world, for the continuation of exploitation of regions known as the third world, peaceful demonstrations and marches (simply in order to do our duty) appear not only useless but also convenient in the eyes of all whose only aim in life is to subjugate humanity.
It now becomes evident that income from tax and debt relief in the poor countries, even if they have passionate or other motivation, don’t in any way stop the criminal schemes of the dominators. We consider as given that the state does not distribute the wealth that they acquire to the persons that they dominate.
For us the answer, and real solidarity to all oppressed in the world, is continued social war and daily insurrection to sabotage the plans of power in a generalised struggle against this sordid fabrication that is named State.
As long as silence consents the government-perpetrated crimes of apoihos murders apathy and fatalism will remain.
While the slaughter continues the bastards and common murderers of the European Union and all "developed countries" present themselves as incompetent to intervene. As for the sordid fabrication named the UN, we believe that they are unworthy of any mention.
The Media of mass deceit only show the extreme right positions of Israel, and they never report the big wave of total refusal to join the army that is growing and is in solidarity with the Palestinians.
Last year 62 students declared that they would avoid recruitment, while two of them who are anarchist were jailed.
The previous week another 18 year old anarchist was sentenced to 28 days prison for his refusal to serve.
The army was shaken when 52 senior police officers refused to serve in the Palestinian Territories.
200 Israeli soldiers declared that they refused to continue service
Now that the rabid conflict of States has been accentuated for the distribution of slices of the world, for the continuation of exploitation of regions known as the third world, peaceful demonstrations and marches (simply in order to do our duty) appear not only useless but also convenient in the eyes of all whose only aim in life is to subjugate humanity.
It now becomes evident that income from tax and debt relief in the poor countries, even if they have passionate or other motivation, don’t in any way stop the criminal schemes of the dominators. We consider as given that the state does not distribute the wealth that they acquire to the persons that they dominate.
For us the answer, and real solidarity to all oppressed in the world, is continued social war and daily insurrection to sabotage the plans of power in a generalised struggle against this sordid fabrication that is named State.
As long as silence consents the government-perpetrated crimes of apoihos murders apathy and fatalism will remain.
Anarchists on Trial
The demo outside the Israeli ambassador’s house and subsequent arrest of George Karakasian and Sotiris Marangos
While the Palestinian people were being slaughtered and humiliated, the Israeli ambassador in Cyprus decided to throw a party to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the terrorist fascistic State of Israel. Needless to say, the above characteristics are common to all States.
For every fighting person and anyone with any feelings this was a provocation that could not remain unchallenged and a good reason for us to express our accumulated rage. Not only towards the Zionist thugs but also towards all those who, from all the security of their life of accomodation, put victims and oppressors on the same level. Anyone with any kind of dignity was there, not only (as in some cases) to show off to public opinion but to demonstrate that the insurrection against the murderers of the human race and against everything that oppresses us is a reality.
The arrest of the two comrades George Karakasian and Soteris Marangos that night (with the ridiculous accusation of beating the cops i.e. those who regularly beat up and maltreat people but rarely appear before a court) and the first trial that took place on 30/05/02 were aimed at scaring people in struggle and preventing future events such as those which took place that night ever happening again.
The comrades present in court for the parody of a trial witnessed the total absence of all those who claim to be progressive and rebellious but confine their activity to boring speeches.
Such trials ridicule the rotten State, which while speaking of human rights represses people who really fight for them.
Comrade George Karakasian received his summons only sixteen hours before the trial and when he got there he was accused of ‘crimes’ which were not included in the summons! When the two comrades denied the accusations the prosecutor (without even trying to keep up appearances) asked for the trials to be speeded up. And this is indeed what happened. Whereas the other cases in court that day were put off for approximately three months the comrades were referred for trial two weeks later to put an end to things quickly and painlessly and prevent people from waking up from the lethargy of the miserable life that the State offers its citizens with the help of the media.
The comrades who are to be judged on 14/06/02 are not alone because as they themselves know they will surely have the solidarity that every fighting person deserves. The only thing we can do to challenge to nightmare we are all living in is daily and continuous insurrection.
NO BORDERS NO STATE
Anarchist group of Cyprus
The trial has now been set for August 27 2002
Freedom for anarchist George Karakasian,
hostage of the State of Cyprus
27th August 2002, anarchist comrade George Karakasian made his third appearance in court following a demo outside the Israeli embassy in Nicosia 18th April 2002, on the occasion of a celebration of the anniversary of the foundation of the State of Israel, where scuffles broke out between demonstrators and the police who were protecting the entry of guests to the assassins’ banquet.
The accusation is that of ‘beating a cop’ (who happened to be the second in command for the whole of Cyprus) and causing damage to the car of one of the guests.
It was already clear that this was to be no ordinary trial.
George received his summons only sixteen hours before the first hearing, at which he was accused of ‘crimes’ which were not included in the original summons. When the comrade denied the accusations against him the prosecutor asked for the trial to be speeded up. It was set for two weeks later, (14/06/02) whereas all the other cases heard that day were postponed for three months. At the subsequent hearing the trial was set for today, 27th August, due to the absence of two witnesses.
During this time first one, then a second, defence lawyer abandoned the case as George was not prepared to apologise for his actions or ask the court for leniency. No other lawyer was prepared to take up his case. Defending anarchists is not good for business in this banana republic!
In court today George decided to speak alone, without a lawyer, and to claim responsibility for his actions. He also declared that he did not recognise the court, and was not going to beg for clemency. The judge was visibly confused and consternated by the singular individual before him who, underlining his revolutionary anarchist identity, was for the first time in the history of Cyprus, claiming responsibility for an act of rebellion with dignity and pride. The henchman of the State’s immediate reaction was to have George speedily removed from court and sent to prison for a week pending sentence, which he has promised will be the maximum for contempt of court. The date has been set for September 4.
All visits have been refused by the prison authorities.
George’s anarchist comrades in Cyprus are giving him their unconditional solidarity, with all possible means. But, unlike the State, anarchists know no boundaries. It’s up to comrades everywhere to show this fucking island full of soldiers and military bases, that another reality exists: that of the joyous lightness of rebellion.
Some comrades of the anarchist group of Cyprus
The following is a leaflet that was given out to tourists arriving at Larnaca airport. A large banner was left at the exit of the airport, and slogans written on the walls along the motorway.
WELCOME TO CYPRUS!
Before you begin your holiday basking on the beaches of this beautiful island, we invite you to read the following:
The Cypriot State, while calling itself democratic, tries in every way to obstruct and prevent each and every kind of social struggle and the very act of doubting the State itself.
At this moment anarchist comrade George Karakasian has been a hostage in the hands of this State since 27/08/02. The only ‘crime’ our comrade has committed is that he contested not only the existence of the State but also it’s logic of passivity, wage slavery, or ‘enclosure’ within the artificial needs required for the preservance and survival not only of the Cypriot State but of every other State and authority in general.
Last April, a period characterised by the massive and continuous massacre of the Palestinian people by the Zionist murderers, George Karakasian could not remain passive. Ignoring the lifestyle that wants people to stay closed within a personal deadlock characterised by the logic of survival (school, army, work, retirement, death), he chose daily struggle as a way of life and as an attitude of personal dignity.
The invitation of the Israeli ambassador, convinced that while massacres of children were taking place there was no problem in celebrating the anniversary of the establishment of his bloodthirsty State, fortunately did not remain unanswered. This time the people’s rage could not be contained by the forces of order and the inevitable riot police.
All the guard dogs of capital were present, ready as always to protect the bosses, exploiters and everyone who lives on the backs of the workers who are trying to survive in harder and harder living conditions.
The imprisoned comrade George Karakasian was presented in court with eight heavy charges, three of which are considered to be the most serious. We will dwell on this subject for a moment, not because we want to ‘justify’ anything–anyway social struggles cannot in any way be ‘judged’ by so-called ‘bourgeois legality’–but because we want to show the dirt, hypocrisy and everything else that the word ‘justice’, the candy they have in their mouths every day, stands for. So in order to destroy the illusions which the law serves to foster:
Charge (1): ‘Causing serious physical injury to a police officer’: If the symbolic grasp (showing up the hateful the role of the police present) of the hat of a cop who later talked in front of the cameras can be called ‘serious physical injury’, then what can we call the capturing of the comrade by these cops, his being dragged inside the home of the Israeli ambassador and continually beaten all over his body by five of them shouting at him ‘fuck your anarchy’. They also injured his ear by pulling his earring. The extent of his injuries was such that he was taken to hospital. The democratic procedure did not stop there. When George Karakasian returned to the hospital next day to take his case card this had accidentally disappeared…
Charge 2: ‘Causing criminal damage to windscreen of a car belonging to a one of the guests invited to the celebration’. The ‘gentleman’ in question, who happens to be the manager of a multinational company and was naturally invited to the celebration of slaughter, although having been warned warned by the comrade Karakasian to turn back, tried to drive through the demonstrators with his car!!! As if that were possible. Anyway, in our opinion, the reason he managed to escape is that anarchists are not killers or conspirators like the guests! Here the phrase fits: ‘they talk about damage to property while we are talking about the loss of human lives’.
Charge 3: ‘Being in possession of a explosive device’. This is the ridiculous accusation of possessing an old bullet which was found when his home was raided. This does not deserve comment and only shows clearly the revenge of a ‘civilised’ and progressive State such as Cyprus when it is about to judge social fighters and people with dignity. We have already clarified that we did are not presenting the charges in order to justify them. The dignified attitude our comrade held in the court (something seen for the first time in Cyprus) and the fact that he did not ask for it to show him any clemency, shows exactly what are the feelings of anarchists for so-called ‘bourgeois justice’ are.
We as comrades of anarchist George Karakasian feel sad of course because he has been imprisoned by the detestable Cyprus State, but at the same time we have the joy of knowing that our comrade remains strong and is aware of the impact his acts will have in the future on the revolutionary movement of the island and on struggles generally.
Our solidarity until the day of the sentence (4/09/02 but which will also continue later) will take the dimensions it has to, so that that all those who express the misery of power understand that the attack they have begun against anarchists and all those in struggle will not remain unanswered, and that they will pay for the evil they do.
For a free life, a life in which everyone will be able to enjoy everything through equality and solidarity.
FREEDOM TO ANARCHIST COMRADE GEORGE KARAKASIAN.
SOLIDARITY TO ANARCHIST SOTIRI MARANGO WHO WILL BE JUDGED FOR THE SAME CASE 19/09/02
ANARCHIST GROUP OF CYPRUS
For communication: exegersi2002@yahoo.com
Freedom to anarchist George Karakasian!
This is what we have been shouting since George was thrown behind bars on August 27 after standing up to a miserable little man in a miserable little room, the courtroom of infamy which everyone behind these gates passed through before being driven handcuffed to be locked up in a cell, for months, years, maybe for life.
We could go on and on about the decision of the ‘organs of justice’, the police and the court aided by their faithful servants, the media, to frame George: the string of trumped up charges (most of which were later dropped), the definition of an old bullet found in his home as an ‘explosive device’, the haste with which he was summoned to court to get the case over with as quickly as possible, etc etc. But we are not here to protest our comrade’s innocence.
We are not here to protest his innocence first and foremost because we know that George Karakasian is guilty: HE IS GUILTY OF BEING AN ANARCHIST. That is why he was singled out from a crowd of 250 people and charged along with a few others, (one of whom, Sotiris Marangos is also an anarchist and is due to go on trial on October 19). They were expressing their anger against the Zionist murderers at a demonstration outside the Israeli ambassador’s home to mark the anniversary of the Israeli State which is responsible for the relentless massacre of thousands of Palestinian men women and children.
We are not here to protest George’s innocence because we do not accept the court’s definition of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’. The law is nothing but an instrument that society uses to maintain privilege for the few, and a life of drudgery and submission for the many. Prison is the cornerstone of this reality, the ultimate threat in a society that divides us into good and bad, innocent and guilty, in the interests of capital.
We are not here to protest his innocence because we know that violence is the monopoly of the State. Its guard dogs, the cops, regularly beat and even kill in the interests of their masters, with their full approval. Screws turn the key on thousands of prisoners every night for years on end in the slow, absurd violence of reclusion. Judges dish out sentences like sweets and get promotion if they do a good turn to the State by getting rid of one of the ‘troublemakers’ for a while. We don’t need to scale the pinnacle of violence, however, in order to put the whole of society in question. The soldier in the barracks, the worker, the unemployed, ‘drug addict’, the immigrant, etc also have plenty of good reasons for struggling against their condition.
So we are here to express our solidarity with George and with all the exploited who find themselves behind bars because they have refused to bow down the to the sacred book of law, the bible of democracy. Our solidarity is not solidarity of miseria, but with the struggle of the men and women who refuse such a condition.
We express this solidarity with love and rage in the game of life that above all makes us free ourselves, destroys alienation, exploitation and mental poverty, opening up infinite spaces to experimentation in a project aimed at realising itself in insurrection, for a free society built on the rubble of the old.
Freedom to anarchist George Karakasian!
Destroy all prisons!
A LETTER FROM GEORGE KARAKASIAN, HOSTAGE OF THE STATE IN CYPRUS
This letter from George Karakasian reached us clandestinely from prison.
(All his books and letters have been confiscated, and mail with comrades has been stopped.)
16 November 2002
I have been a hostage in the prisons of the Cypriot State since August 27 2002. The court convicted me, giving me a seven months sentence because I rebelled, offering my solidarity to the fighting people of Palestine, but also, and mainly, because I didn’t regret hitting a cop, my class enemy. I admitted all the charges that the protectors and accomplices of the zionist murderers accused me of. In my ‘defence’ I said that the charges against me were questionable and completely ridiculous. The attempt to knock off a cop’s hat had been interpreted by the media as ‘continuous punching’ using artificial video repetition and false testimonies of the police.
Of course the slander, twisting and misrepresentation concerning the events that took place on the 18 April outside the blood-drenched villa of the zionist scum, does not end here. During a period of social unrest marked by international mobilization against the baneful slaughter by the dominators which is continually intensifying (Afghanistan, Middle East and Iraq), the TV and radio represented the actions of anarchists and other fighting people as ‘shameful episodes’.
As well as persecuting rebels the Cypriot State imports Israeli systems of surveillance and has even provided a stadium for the Israeli team to play football in so as to maintain perfect diplomatic relations with the bloodthirsty State of Israel.
In my ‘defence’ in court (27/08/02) I said the following: ‘The police concocted this machination, adding maximum charges against me in order to vilify me as much as possible. The cops are the henchmen of the State, authority and zionism. I declare with full responsibility that I am against the State and every kind of authority. Concerning the ‘beating ‘ of the police chief, I do not see that I acted wrongly nor do I ask for the leniency of the court’.
The judge executioner, surprised at first, mentioned that this could not be called an ‘defence’ or was a defence in quotation marks. Then, furious, he had me remanded in custody until the day of the verdict (September 4) bearing in mind the report of the social welfare office.
4/09/02. Before pronouncing sentence the judge, on reading the interview that I gave to the social worker, said: ‘In his interview the accused expresses his ideology since he stated that he struggles for a society with equality and solidarity, without nations or classes.’ Before the judge could finish his sentence I raised my fist towards his hated bench, then towards the public to face my comrades who had fought with me, intending in this way to assure everyone in the courtroom, and also all those who every day sink further into the swamp of apathy and illusions, THAT CONSENSUS WITH THE TERRORIST STATE WILL NEVER EXIST
Finally I would like to give my solidarity to comrade Sotiris Marangos who is being tried for the same events and to all those who rebel everywhere in the world.
George Karaksaian
Central Prison of Cyprus,
Wing 2B 6523, Nicosia, Cyprus.
George’s imprisonment is a consequence of events that occurred at a demonstration outside the home of the Israeli ambassador in Nicosia, Cyprus. The occasion was a party the latter had decided to throw for local politicians and businessmen to celebrate the anniversary of the bloodthirsty State of Israel. Many people, including anarchists, were angry about this celebration of the genocide of the Palestinian people.
A number of arrests were made and particular repression was meted out to the anarchists as they did not attempt to defend their actions, underlining their solidarity with the people of Palestine in their struggle against the Israeli project of annihilation. George was severely beaten that night and taken to hospital. The next day his file was nowhere to be found. He was later sentenced to 7 month’s prison during which time his mail has been censured and all his personal belongings (books, letters, etc) have been confiscated.
Repression against anarchists and sympathisers in Cyprus does not stop here. Following a flyposting expedition a comrade was dragged away handcuffed from outside the anarchist meeting place, taken to the cop station and repeatedly beaten to the extent that the cops themselves took him to hospital. This however did not prevent them recommencing the beating upon their return. He was released, bruised and bleeding next day.
Anarchist comrade Sotiris Marangos is currently on trial in Nicosia court, under the same judge Papamichael who sentenced George - for which he received instant promotion - with similar charges. The next hearing has been set for December 5th.
Here is the text of a poster that has been flyposted in various towns of Cyprus.
While the Palestinian people were being slaughtered and humiliated, the Israeli ambassador in Cyprus decided to throw a party to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the terrorist fascistic State of Israel. Needless to say, the above characteristics are common to all States.
For every fighting person and anyone with any feelings this was a provocation that could not remain unchallenged and a good reason for us to express our accumulated rage. Not only towards the Zionist thugs but also towards all those who, from all the security of their life of accomodation, put victims and oppressors on the same level. Anyone with any kind of dignity was there, not only (as in some cases) to show off to public opinion but to demonstrate that the insurrection against the murderers of the human race and against everything that oppresses us is a reality.
The arrest of the two comrades George Karakasian and Soteris Marangos that night (with the ridiculous accusation of beating the cops i.e. those who regularly beat up and maltreat people but rarely appear before a court) and the first trial that took place on 30/05/02 were aimed at scaring people in struggle and preventing future events such as those which took place that night ever happening again.
The comrades present in court for the parody of a trial witnessed the total absence of all those who claim to be progressive and rebellious but confine their activity to boring speeches.
Such trials ridicule the rotten State, which while speaking of human rights represses people who really fight for them.
Comrade George Karakasian received his summons only sixteen hours before the trial and when he got there he was accused of ‘crimes’ which were not included in the summons! When the two comrades denied the accusations the prosecutor (without even trying to keep up appearances) asked for the trials to be speeded up. And this is indeed what happened. Whereas the other cases in court that day were put off for approximately three months the comrades were referred for trial two weeks later to put an end to things quickly and painlessly and prevent people from waking up from the lethargy of the miserable life that the State offers its citizens with the help of the media.
The comrades who are to be judged on 14/06/02 are not alone because as they themselves know they will surely have the solidarity that every fighting person deserves. The only thing we can do to challenge to nightmare we are all living in is daily and continuous insurrection.
NO BORDERS NO STATE
Anarchist group of Cyprus
The trial has now been set for August 27 2002
Freedom for anarchist George Karakasian,
hostage of the State of Cyprus
27th August 2002, anarchist comrade George Karakasian made his third appearance in court following a demo outside the Israeli embassy in Nicosia 18th April 2002, on the occasion of a celebration of the anniversary of the foundation of the State of Israel, where scuffles broke out between demonstrators and the police who were protecting the entry of guests to the assassins’ banquet.
The accusation is that of ‘beating a cop’ (who happened to be the second in command for the whole of Cyprus) and causing damage to the car of one of the guests.
It was already clear that this was to be no ordinary trial.
George received his summons only sixteen hours before the first hearing, at which he was accused of ‘crimes’ which were not included in the original summons. When the comrade denied the accusations against him the prosecutor asked for the trial to be speeded up. It was set for two weeks later, (14/06/02) whereas all the other cases heard that day were postponed for three months. At the subsequent hearing the trial was set for today, 27th August, due to the absence of two witnesses.
During this time first one, then a second, defence lawyer abandoned the case as George was not prepared to apologise for his actions or ask the court for leniency. No other lawyer was prepared to take up his case. Defending anarchists is not good for business in this banana republic!
In court today George decided to speak alone, without a lawyer, and to claim responsibility for his actions. He also declared that he did not recognise the court, and was not going to beg for clemency. The judge was visibly confused and consternated by the singular individual before him who, underlining his revolutionary anarchist identity, was for the first time in the history of Cyprus, claiming responsibility for an act of rebellion with dignity and pride. The henchman of the State’s immediate reaction was to have George speedily removed from court and sent to prison for a week pending sentence, which he has promised will be the maximum for contempt of court. The date has been set for September 4.
All visits have been refused by the prison authorities.
George’s anarchist comrades in Cyprus are giving him their unconditional solidarity, with all possible means. But, unlike the State, anarchists know no boundaries. It’s up to comrades everywhere to show this fucking island full of soldiers and military bases, that another reality exists: that of the joyous lightness of rebellion.
Some comrades of the anarchist group of Cyprus
The following is a leaflet that was given out to tourists arriving at Larnaca airport. A large banner was left at the exit of the airport, and slogans written on the walls along the motorway.
WELCOME TO CYPRUS!
Before you begin your holiday basking on the beaches of this beautiful island, we invite you to read the following:
The Cypriot State, while calling itself democratic, tries in every way to obstruct and prevent each and every kind of social struggle and the very act of doubting the State itself.
At this moment anarchist comrade George Karakasian has been a hostage in the hands of this State since 27/08/02. The only ‘crime’ our comrade has committed is that he contested not only the existence of the State but also it’s logic of passivity, wage slavery, or ‘enclosure’ within the artificial needs required for the preservance and survival not only of the Cypriot State but of every other State and authority in general.
Last April, a period characterised by the massive and continuous massacre of the Palestinian people by the Zionist murderers, George Karakasian could not remain passive. Ignoring the lifestyle that wants people to stay closed within a personal deadlock characterised by the logic of survival (school, army, work, retirement, death), he chose daily struggle as a way of life and as an attitude of personal dignity.
The invitation of the Israeli ambassador, convinced that while massacres of children were taking place there was no problem in celebrating the anniversary of the establishment of his bloodthirsty State, fortunately did not remain unanswered. This time the people’s rage could not be contained by the forces of order and the inevitable riot police.
All the guard dogs of capital were present, ready as always to protect the bosses, exploiters and everyone who lives on the backs of the workers who are trying to survive in harder and harder living conditions.
The imprisoned comrade George Karakasian was presented in court with eight heavy charges, three of which are considered to be the most serious. We will dwell on this subject for a moment, not because we want to ‘justify’ anything–anyway social struggles cannot in any way be ‘judged’ by so-called ‘bourgeois legality’–but because we want to show the dirt, hypocrisy and everything else that the word ‘justice’, the candy they have in their mouths every day, stands for. So in order to destroy the illusions which the law serves to foster:
Charge (1): ‘Causing serious physical injury to a police officer’: If the symbolic grasp (showing up the hateful the role of the police present) of the hat of a cop who later talked in front of the cameras can be called ‘serious physical injury’, then what can we call the capturing of the comrade by these cops, his being dragged inside the home of the Israeli ambassador and continually beaten all over his body by five of them shouting at him ‘fuck your anarchy’. They also injured his ear by pulling his earring. The extent of his injuries was such that he was taken to hospital. The democratic procedure did not stop there. When George Karakasian returned to the hospital next day to take his case card this had accidentally disappeared…
Charge 2: ‘Causing criminal damage to windscreen of a car belonging to a one of the guests invited to the celebration’. The ‘gentleman’ in question, who happens to be the manager of a multinational company and was naturally invited to the celebration of slaughter, although having been warned warned by the comrade Karakasian to turn back, tried to drive through the demonstrators with his car!!! As if that were possible. Anyway, in our opinion, the reason he managed to escape is that anarchists are not killers or conspirators like the guests! Here the phrase fits: ‘they talk about damage to property while we are talking about the loss of human lives’.
Charge 3: ‘Being in possession of a explosive device’. This is the ridiculous accusation of possessing an old bullet which was found when his home was raided. This does not deserve comment and only shows clearly the revenge of a ‘civilised’ and progressive State such as Cyprus when it is about to judge social fighters and people with dignity. We have already clarified that we did are not presenting the charges in order to justify them. The dignified attitude our comrade held in the court (something seen for the first time in Cyprus) and the fact that he did not ask for it to show him any clemency, shows exactly what are the feelings of anarchists for so-called ‘bourgeois justice’ are.
We as comrades of anarchist George Karakasian feel sad of course because he has been imprisoned by the detestable Cyprus State, but at the same time we have the joy of knowing that our comrade remains strong and is aware of the impact his acts will have in the future on the revolutionary movement of the island and on struggles generally.
Our solidarity until the day of the sentence (4/09/02 but which will also continue later) will take the dimensions it has to, so that that all those who express the misery of power understand that the attack they have begun against anarchists and all those in struggle will not remain unanswered, and that they will pay for the evil they do.
For a free life, a life in which everyone will be able to enjoy everything through equality and solidarity.
FREEDOM TO ANARCHIST COMRADE GEORGE KARAKASIAN.
SOLIDARITY TO ANARCHIST SOTIRI MARANGO WHO WILL BE JUDGED FOR THE SAME CASE 19/09/02
ANARCHIST GROUP OF CYPRUS
For communication: exegersi2002@yahoo.com
Freedom to anarchist George Karakasian!
This is what we have been shouting since George was thrown behind bars on August 27 after standing up to a miserable little man in a miserable little room, the courtroom of infamy which everyone behind these gates passed through before being driven handcuffed to be locked up in a cell, for months, years, maybe for life.
We could go on and on about the decision of the ‘organs of justice’, the police and the court aided by their faithful servants, the media, to frame George: the string of trumped up charges (most of which were later dropped), the definition of an old bullet found in his home as an ‘explosive device’, the haste with which he was summoned to court to get the case over with as quickly as possible, etc etc. But we are not here to protest our comrade’s innocence.
We are not here to protest his innocence first and foremost because we know that George Karakasian is guilty: HE IS GUILTY OF BEING AN ANARCHIST. That is why he was singled out from a crowd of 250 people and charged along with a few others, (one of whom, Sotiris Marangos is also an anarchist and is due to go on trial on October 19). They were expressing their anger against the Zionist murderers at a demonstration outside the Israeli ambassador’s home to mark the anniversary of the Israeli State which is responsible for the relentless massacre of thousands of Palestinian men women and children.
We are not here to protest George’s innocence because we do not accept the court’s definition of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’. The law is nothing but an instrument that society uses to maintain privilege for the few, and a life of drudgery and submission for the many. Prison is the cornerstone of this reality, the ultimate threat in a society that divides us into good and bad, innocent and guilty, in the interests of capital.
We are not here to protest his innocence because we know that violence is the monopoly of the State. Its guard dogs, the cops, regularly beat and even kill in the interests of their masters, with their full approval. Screws turn the key on thousands of prisoners every night for years on end in the slow, absurd violence of reclusion. Judges dish out sentences like sweets and get promotion if they do a good turn to the State by getting rid of one of the ‘troublemakers’ for a while. We don’t need to scale the pinnacle of violence, however, in order to put the whole of society in question. The soldier in the barracks, the worker, the unemployed, ‘drug addict’, the immigrant, etc also have plenty of good reasons for struggling against their condition.
So we are here to express our solidarity with George and with all the exploited who find themselves behind bars because they have refused to bow down the to the sacred book of law, the bible of democracy. Our solidarity is not solidarity of miseria, but with the struggle of the men and women who refuse such a condition.
We express this solidarity with love and rage in the game of life that above all makes us free ourselves, destroys alienation, exploitation and mental poverty, opening up infinite spaces to experimentation in a project aimed at realising itself in insurrection, for a free society built on the rubble of the old.
Freedom to anarchist George Karakasian!
Destroy all prisons!
A LETTER FROM GEORGE KARAKASIAN, HOSTAGE OF THE STATE IN CYPRUS
This letter from George Karakasian reached us clandestinely from prison.
(All his books and letters have been confiscated, and mail with comrades has been stopped.)
16 November 2002
I have been a hostage in the prisons of the Cypriot State since August 27 2002. The court convicted me, giving me a seven months sentence because I rebelled, offering my solidarity to the fighting people of Palestine, but also, and mainly, because I didn’t regret hitting a cop, my class enemy. I admitted all the charges that the protectors and accomplices of the zionist murderers accused me of. In my ‘defence’ I said that the charges against me were questionable and completely ridiculous. The attempt to knock off a cop’s hat had been interpreted by the media as ‘continuous punching’ using artificial video repetition and false testimonies of the police.
Of course the slander, twisting and misrepresentation concerning the events that took place on the 18 April outside the blood-drenched villa of the zionist scum, does not end here. During a period of social unrest marked by international mobilization against the baneful slaughter by the dominators which is continually intensifying (Afghanistan, Middle East and Iraq), the TV and radio represented the actions of anarchists and other fighting people as ‘shameful episodes’.
As well as persecuting rebels the Cypriot State imports Israeli systems of surveillance and has even provided a stadium for the Israeli team to play football in so as to maintain perfect diplomatic relations with the bloodthirsty State of Israel.
In my ‘defence’ in court (27/08/02) I said the following: ‘The police concocted this machination, adding maximum charges against me in order to vilify me as much as possible. The cops are the henchmen of the State, authority and zionism. I declare with full responsibility that I am against the State and every kind of authority. Concerning the ‘beating ‘ of the police chief, I do not see that I acted wrongly nor do I ask for the leniency of the court’.
The judge executioner, surprised at first, mentioned that this could not be called an ‘defence’ or was a defence in quotation marks. Then, furious, he had me remanded in custody until the day of the verdict (September 4) bearing in mind the report of the social welfare office.
4/09/02. Before pronouncing sentence the judge, on reading the interview that I gave to the social worker, said: ‘In his interview the accused expresses his ideology since he stated that he struggles for a society with equality and solidarity, without nations or classes.’ Before the judge could finish his sentence I raised my fist towards his hated bench, then towards the public to face my comrades who had fought with me, intending in this way to assure everyone in the courtroom, and also all those who every day sink further into the swamp of apathy and illusions, THAT CONSENSUS WITH THE TERRORIST STATE WILL NEVER EXIST
Finally I would like to give my solidarity to comrade Sotiris Marangos who is being tried for the same events and to all those who rebel everywhere in the world.
George Karaksaian
Central Prison of Cyprus,
Wing 2B 6523, Nicosia, Cyprus.
George’s imprisonment is a consequence of events that occurred at a demonstration outside the home of the Israeli ambassador in Nicosia, Cyprus. The occasion was a party the latter had decided to throw for local politicians and businessmen to celebrate the anniversary of the bloodthirsty State of Israel. Many people, including anarchists, were angry about this celebration of the genocide of the Palestinian people.
A number of arrests were made and particular repression was meted out to the anarchists as they did not attempt to defend their actions, underlining their solidarity with the people of Palestine in their struggle against the Israeli project of annihilation. George was severely beaten that night and taken to hospital. The next day his file was nowhere to be found. He was later sentenced to 7 month’s prison during which time his mail has been censured and all his personal belongings (books, letters, etc) have been confiscated.
Repression against anarchists and sympathisers in Cyprus does not stop here. Following a flyposting expedition a comrade was dragged away handcuffed from outside the anarchist meeting place, taken to the cop station and repeatedly beaten to the extent that the cops themselves took him to hospital. This however did not prevent them recommencing the beating upon their return. He was released, bruised and bleeding next day.
Anarchist comrade Sotiris Marangos is currently on trial in Nicosia court, under the same judge Papamichael who sentenced George - for which he received instant promotion - with similar charges. The next hearing has been set for December 5th.
Here is the text of a poster that has been flyposted in various towns of Cyprus.
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