Global Voices Online

A general strike in French Guiana caused interruptions in power and transportation services, but no disruption of the French presidential campaigns since all campaigning must stop several days before the ballot (Fr).

As France votes today in the first round of their presidential election, at Racontars, Akynou explains reasons for choosing for Segolene Royal. Meanwhile, Troup nul Guadeloupe says Royal is “dangerous for France”, arguing she has frequently altered her position in attempt to garner support (Fr).

Karucrea points to Paroles d'Esclavage (Fr), an online collection of the stories of Martiniquean slaves, as told by their grandchildren.

If you are in Nigeria, you can text your observations of the presidential elections: “The number to text to is 0808-4032739. Note that number and tell everyone you know!”

While Nigerians vote in the presidential elections, Nkem writes, “We need to wake up and smell the gunpowder…”

Trailblazer on the plight of women in D.R of Congo: “They may feel that the only crime they have committed was being born into this world as a woman. What’s even a worse, a Congolese woman.
Instead of being able to proudly walk this earth, provide for themselves and their families and reach for goals that many are free to reach for, they live through unimaginable horrors while their government and the rest of the world turn their head.”

Samakomlao blog has pictures of LaoKeota Xayyasing who has become a popular pop star in neighboring Vietnam where he is currently studying.

FACT - Freedom Against Censorship Thailand is urging the National Legislative Assembly and The Thai Government to free Thai cinema from the whims of censorship authorities. “We demand the National Legislative Assembly decree the movies a form of mass media, and that it be liberated from the shackles of state intervention and restriction, the same as other mass media such as radio, television and newspapers have long been set free”.

Bookish has a probable explanation on why Thai authorities seem to have lot of trouble with the online world these days.