The former president of Côte d’Ivoire, Henri Konan Bédié, on Sunday led the nation’s opposition in appealing for “civil disobedience” in the face of “loss,” in the context of President Alassane Ouattara’s controversial candidacy for a third presidential term in the country’s presidential elections. They are scheduled for 31 October this year.
Tag: Africa
HRW Denounces Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has denounced xenophobic attacks against Africans and Asians in South Africa and has condemned the South African government’s inaction to stop them. The condemnation comes a year after the adoption of a government action plan to combat attacks against foreigners.
Ivory Coast Approves Third Ouattara Candidacy
Alassane Ouattara is officially a candidate for third presidential term in Côte d’Ivoire. The Ivorian Constitutional Council gave President Ouattara a green light on Monday to run for a third term in the October presidential elections, sparking a wave of violent protests across the West African state.
Zimbabwe — Critics Allege Democracy “Dead”
The state of democracy in Zimbabwe is simply on its death bed, so to speak. Various human rights organizations have come out to openly denounce the ongoing harassment therein, especially directed towards government critics who are subsequently subjected to court cases, abductions, illegal jailing, and torture.
Mali’s Opposition Rejects Transition Talks
Mali’s opposition has rejected the call to have military personnel as their transitional head of state. The June 5 Movement, leading the opposition, who attended three days of talks, are accusing the military junta of planning to take power using force through a cover up of the transition talks.
Transition Talks Resume in Mali
Mali’s military junta has resumed summit talks in an effort to find a way forward for the transition to civilian power. The head of the military junta, Colonel Assimi Goita, has called on all parties to forget their differences and forge a way forward. The decision to hold the meeting comes after pressure from within the region and internationally.
Sudan Declares Emergency as Pound Plunges
Sudan has declared a state of economic emergency after a sharp fall in its currency. It is alleged that the pound has declined in value due manipulation by those opposed to the transitional government. On Wednesday, it was reported that the Sudanese pound was trading at 240 per US dollar on the parallel market.
Kenya — Corruption Cases Begin Against Public Looters
The court of Judgment on Corruption Cases Tuesday was saddened by the behavior of some leaders in involving their families in corruption and looting of public property. Chief Justice Douglas Ogoti said in recent days officials have been arrested and charged along with family members for engaging in corruption cases.
Tanzania — TMA Warns of Autumn Rains
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has issued a warning about this year’s autumn rains, stating that it may be below average to moderate in all parts of the country, so caution is needed. TMA Director-General, Dr. Agnes Kijazi spoke to reporters while giving the direction of the autumn rains.
Magufuli Thirsts for a New Tanzania
Tanzanian President John Magufuli, who is seeking the consent of Tanzanians to lead them again for a second term, has so far held campaign rallies in seven regions since the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) launched its campaign on August 29. He is said to have received a great reception from various groups of people.
Mali — ECOWAS Demands Civilian President by Next Week
As per a statement read at the tail end of Monday’s Niamey summit by the ECOWAS Commission President, Jean-Claude Brou, the commission demanded that the President and the Prime Minister of Mali must be civilians, and must be appointed no later than 15 September 2020.
Tanzania — Majaliwa Dares to End CCM Political Factions
Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has dared to end the factions within the Chama Cha Mapinduzi, (CCM) Arusha Urban Constituency, caused by a spate of candidates while battling to nominate candidates for parliamentary seats through the party. This was evidenced yesterday.
Tanzania — HRW Condemns Increased Repression Ahead of Elections
The humanitarian organization, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned Tanzanian authorities’ increased repression of the nation’s opposition, the media, and non-governmental organizations ahead of the country’s general elections, scheduled for October 28th.
Sudan — Government, Rebels Sign Peace Agreement
The government of Sudan and Darfur’s main rebel alliance, the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF), on Tuesday signed a peace agreement to end 17 years of conflict. The two sides signed the agreement in a ceremony organized in Juba, the capital city of neighboring South Sudan.
Germany To Produce Green Hydrogen From Scarce Africa Water
The German Federal government has announced that their priority is to develop “green” hydrogen, which they are going to produce in North Africa on the basis of electricity from renewable sources. However, one of the main questions ponders, that the import of hydrogen could interfere with the drinking water shortage in Africa.
COVID Conveys Kenyan Corruption on Another Level
Corruption is one thing but in Kenya, corruption is simply on another level. How else do you explain a situation whereby funds meant for the sick and vulnerable in the society are looted with impunity? To make the situation worse, it is funds meant for combating the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.
EU Suspends Training in Mali After Coup
Last week’s coup in Mali that ousted President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita has led to a number of tough decisions by international bodies on the country. The European Union, in its sitting, said that it had suspended its missions training the Malian army in the country following the coup.
Rwanda Issues Arrest Warrant For Genocide Suspect
Rwanda has issued an arrest warrant for Aloys Ntiwiragabo for his supposed role for the 1994 genocide. Speaking to the media, the country’s prosecutor-general said that he had reached the decision after conducting an investigation. He revealed that they had been working with the French department.
Kenya — Corruption Key Contributor to Traffic Accidents
Many road accidents continue being witnessed in Kenya with the widespread corruption in the country being blamed as a major contributor to the same. Kenya’s police department is no doubt a hotbed of corruption in the East African nation, and has on many occasions been rated as the most rotten in as far as corruption is concerned.
Kenya — Kilimani Murder Suspect Detained
The Kibera Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday ordered businessman Chris Philip Obure, and his bodyguard, Robert John Ouko Bodo, to be detained for 12 days for questioning in connection with the murder of Kelvin Omwenga, which took place last Saturday in Kilimani, Nairobi.
Kenya — Kenyatta Mourns MP, Dozens Arrested in Protests
Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his condolences to the relatives and friends of former Likoni MP Masoud Mwahima, who passed away on Monday night at the age of 78. In his condolences, President commemorated Mwahima as an intelligent national leader.
Uganda — Besigye Will Not Run for President Again
Uganda’s opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has told his supporters that he will not run for president in the 2021 elections. He was speaking at the offices of the Forum for Democratic Change party in the last days of the nomination of candidates for the presidency at the party.
Charges Against Sen. Malala Dropped After Protests
Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala was released on Tuesday morning after Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Nordin Haji dropped charges against him. Mr. Malala, who was arrested at his Kitengela home on Monday morning, waited for more than eight hours at Mumias police station, where he stayed until Tuesday morning.
Kenya Anti-Corruption Court Rushed in Sentencing Prisoners
Sirisia MPs John Waluke and Grace Wakhungu, serving sentences of 62 and 67 years, respectively, will know their fate on September 25, when the Supreme Court decides whether they will be released on bail. Waluke and Wakhungu, sentenced on June 26, asked the high court to release them on bail.
Kenya — Senate Speaker Asks for Explanations on Arrests
Kenneth Lusaka, Speaker of the Kenyan Senate, on Tuesday ordered Security Minister Fred Matiang’i and Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai to appear before the Senate to explain the arrest of three senators on Monday morning. The three had been preparing to attend a Senate session to discuss the funding system.
Mutiny in Mali Topples Government
Mali is in a state of tension and suspense following reports by a section of rebel army soldiers stating categorically that they have arrested the country’s president and prime minister. After occupying positions at strategic points in the capital, the rebel soldiers were received with cheers by a crowd gathered in the Plaza de la Independencia.
EPRA Announces Kerosene Price Rises in Kenya
Kenyans are facing a dilemma with the price of kerosene products expected to increase by almost six times, following an announcement made on Friday by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). The change is due to the new import of the product, which has not been imported since April.
Mozambique’s Nyusi Visits Northern Region
Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi has visited the northern province of Cabo Delgado in an area where security forces are fighting Islamist militants. Earlier this week, it was reported that the militants had invaded the main port of Mocimboa da Praia, and put it under their control.
11 Killed in Gun Battle in Mogadishu Prison
At least 11 people were killed and several others wounded in a gun battle in a prison in Mogadishu, Somalia after an attempted prison break. According to officials, the dead included security forces and al-Shabaab inmates. The fight between the inmates and security personnel ensued after al-Shabaab inmates received weapons secretly.
Odinga Argues for Constitutional Amendments
Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga has said a good constitution is one that can be amended to meet the needs of citizens and residents of the country. He also expressed his surprise at some leaders and politicians who, in his view, are opposed to changes to the current and approved 2010 Constitution.
Al-Shabaab Suicide Bombing Kills 8 in Somalia
At least nine soldiers have been killed and several others wounded in a car bomb explosion at a military base in Mogadishu, Somalia. “A suicide bomber driving an explosive laden vehicle sped towards the gate of the camp but the guards opened fire to stop it before it detonated,” said a police officer, Aden Mohammed.
Guinea’s RPG Choses Conde to Run for Third Term
Guinea’s ruling party has proposed the current President, Alpha Conde, as its candidate in the soon to be held elections. The announcement was made by the Rally of the Guinean People (RPG) delegates at a convention in the country’s capital, Conakry. Conde would be running for a third term.
20 People Killed by Gunmen in Burkina Faso
At least 20 people have been killed and dozens others wounded in an attack by unidentified gunmen in the eastern part of Burkina Faso. The attack took place in a cattle market according to a government statement. The governor called on the residents to cooperate with the military so as to help in bringing the perpetrators to book.
Coronavirus — African Cases Higher than Reported
As coronavirus cases in Africa surpass 1 million, experts are worried that the numbers don’t reflect the true picture. They have argued that Africa lacks comprehensive testing for the virus. South Africa, with more than half of the cases in the continent, has been commended for carrying out widespread testing.
Nile States Resume Talks to Resolve Dam Problems
Construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Blue Nile is underway, raising speculation that it could lead to a “water war.” The dam is undoubtedly a source of tension between Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan. War itself, however, is extremely unlikely, between any of the three countries.
Mali Opposition Set to Resume Protests
Political tensions continue to soar in Mali as protesters are set to take to the streets once again. The leaders of the June 5 Movement have been urging citizens to return to the streets. The group had halted the demonstrations in honor of the three day Eid ul-Adha holiday that began on Friday last week.
Coronavirus — Devolution Ministry Devastated by Virus
On Monday, 18 government officers working for the Ministry of Devolution in Kenya were asked to leave the office and isolate alone for two weeks as the country was heavily hit by the coronavirus epidemic. The test was conducted on July 23 with 128 samples and 18 samples were positive.
Tanzania — Alliances Forming as Election Heats Up
The temperature of the general election has risen sharply in Tanzania, with major political parties closing in on candidates for various positions, including the presidency and the legislature. Starting yesterday, the leaders of two opposition parties started internal meetings.
Magufuli Receives Ambassadors from U.S., Vietnam
Tanzanian President, Dr. John Magufuli, said the country will continue its good relations with the United States and Vietnam. A press release issued by the Directorate of Communications at the State House, Dar es Salaam, yesterday said President Dr. Magufuli received the credentials of two ambassadors appointed to represent their countries in Tanzania.
Coronavirus — South Africa Sees 500,000 Cases
South Africa has recorded more than 500,000 cases of the coronavirus. The death toll in the country stands at 8,153. The country leads in Africa, a continent that is fast approaching the 1 million mark in terms of cases of the virus, and is the hardest hit, since it accounts for half of Africa’s cases.
Coronavirus — 18 Million Cases, 692,000 Deaths Worldwide
Recent data revealed that the number of people infected with the Coronavirus rose to about 18 million, while deaths rose to about 686,000 cases. Meanwhile, as of Saturday evening, local time, the United States counted more than 62,000 new infections with the new Coronavirus.
Kenyatta, Odinga Expected to Amend Constitution
The government of President Uhuru Kenyatta continues to be blamed for ignoring the need to fully respect the Constitution, as the nation enters the month of commemoration of the decade since the current Constitution was adopted and ratified. On August 4, 2010, the people voted in favor of the current Constitution.
Coronavirus — Half a Million Cases in South Africa
South Africa’s Ministry of Health announced today that the number of new coronavirus cases in the country has exceeded 500,000. Health Minister Zewelini Emkize explained that 10,107 new infections were confirmed every day, bringing the total to 503,290. So far, 8153 people have died.
Tsitsi Dangarembga, Zimbabwe Writer, Released on Bail
Zimbabwean writer Tsitsi Dangarembga was released on bail today, a day after being detained in the country’s capital, Harare, during a demonstration against corruption. The 61 year-old Dangarembga was accused by the Zimbabwean authorities of inciting violence and violating COVID-19 restrictions.
Coronavirus — Kenya Restricts Airports to 11 Countries
Hours before the start of international flights, the Kenyan government announced a new guideline on the move. Speaking in Nairobi while briefing on the transmission of the COVID-19 epidemic in Kenya, Transport Minister James Macharia said Kenyan airspace would not be open to everyone.
Explosion Kills 2 in Nigeria’s Borno State
Grenade explosions have claimed the lives of two people and wounded dozens others in Nigeria’s Borno State. The explosions hit the city early Thursday morning as people were busy with Eid ul Adha celebration preparations. According to the residents, loud explosions rocked the city forcing them to scamper for safety.
WFP: Zimbabwe needs at least $250 Million in Aid
The World Food Program (WFP) today asked for aid of an additional $250 million for an “emergency operation” to combat hunger in Zimbabwe, which will likely affect 60% of the population by the end of this year. WFP says that the Coronavirus pandemic has aggravated an already serious hunger crisis in Zimbabwe.
Former Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa Buried
The funeral of Benjamin William Mkapa, former three-term President of Tanzania, has taken place in his hometown of Lupaso, Masasi district, in the Mtwara region of southern Tanzania. Mkapa died last Friday evening in Dar es Salaam, where he was being treated for malaria.
Sudan Sends More Troops to Darfur
The Sudanese government has decided to send more troops in to the Darfur region following a rise in violence. The Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, said the move is aimed at ensuring that residents are protected, especially during the ripe farming season. The force will include the army and the police.
Mali — ECOWAS Continues Calls for Unity Government
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has opposed calls for Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita’s resignation, saying that a unity government be formed instead. Additionally, ECOWAS is warning of sanctions on all those who will be obstacles to the process.
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