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As per the end of the year publishing traditions, I just want to say happy new year to the blog readers with this 2010 dictators photo from the Afro-Arab summit in Libya. I think this photo best represents the 2011 highlights events. Who thought this was even thinkable?

On the front row, from left to right: Tunisia leader, Al Capone, Zein El Abededdine Ben Ali toppled on 14 January 2011 upon fleeing his country. Yemeni leader, the Zombie, Ali Abdallah Saleh (technically speaking) toppled on 23 November 2011 upon signing an agreement to transfer power. Libyan leader, the clown, Moammar Qaddafi toppled on 23 August 2011 upon the military fall of the capital Tripoli. Egyptian leader, the mummy, Mohammad Hosni Mubarak toppled on 11 February 2011 upon his stepping down.

But this photo doesn’t tell the real story without showing the one which led to these events. It’s the bravery of the Arab people who revolted against their leaders. No foreign backing or conspiracy can get this peaceful man from Khaldiyeh in Homs in Syria to face the brutal security forces, nearly after 9 months of the uprising. This is where the real grassroots movement currently happening.

Happy new year to all, and I wish the Arab Spring round gets completed in 2012, the bloodshed stops, and human rights prevail (a wish, ok).