My Hero Was Born To Serve His Nation

On December 17th, 2005 at 4:30 pm I went on the Internet to see if there was fresh news on the Eritrean websites. The first thing that caught my attention was the news about Seyoum’s death. I was shocked and dismayed. I didn't want to believe it, but it was real. Unfortunately, the hero passed away.

               Seyoum was a great loss to his family,ELF-R-C and the Eritrean Opposition.I first would like to pass on my condolence to his family and to the ELF-R-C.

                 Since Seyoum's death, I have been reading many stories about his character and his bravery.Those are facts that describe how Seyoum was. I had a privilege to spend some time with the great man while he was visiting Toronto. Most of the time when I was with him I became inspired by his dedication and his commitment to his work but at the same time I became worried because Seyoum was so obsessed with his cause that he didn't get any rest when he was supposed to.

           For example: I would like to mention one story that includes him and Mr.Khalifa

Osman.One day at midnight ,Seyoum remembered an incident that happened to some Eritreans who were fleeing from Eritrea to Sudan.Their safety was unknown.Seyoum was anxious to know about their safety, so he asked me to get him a phone card to call Sudan.I asked him," why don't you do it tomorrow” but he couldn't sleep until he knew their situation.So  I got him a card, he called Sudan and woke up Mr.Khalifa from his sleep.Fortunately, he got good news from Mr.Khalifa that they were safe.This was how Seyoum cares about his people, to lose this charismatic leader it is a big loss for the Eritreans who are fighting for peace, and democracy. May God rest him in peace; also may God help his family through difficult times.

I would like to dedicate this poem to the brave man.

        Seyoum was born to serve his nation

       Seyoum didn't know how to rest or relax

      Until his job reached completion

      He worked hard with great motivation

     He never started off with hesitation

    He was courageous and full of ambition

            Nobody could distract his attention

           His nature didn't like a reservation

          He implemented his belief into action

          His pillars were unchanged to free Eritrea into democratization

          The distinguished man was a strong voice for the opposition

                  My hero was an unstoppable machine

                 Who worked 24/7 with full concentration

           Suddenly, the champion stopped its production

    Now it’s our duty to fulfill his mission

       INSHALLAH, we shall walk with banners that represent freedom

                                      Justice & Equality

                                 Into our beloved nation!!!

                        SEYOUM, YOU WILL BE MISSED!!!!

  Abdulwassei Nurhussein

       Toronto, Ontario

         Canada