Recent reporting indicates a noticeable decline in the number of Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers seeking asylum in Vanuatu. This shift suggests tighter migration oversight and possibly changing economic incentives both within Vanuatu and in destination countries like Australia. Officials have pointed out that earlier spikes in asylum requests were often tied to labour mobility gaps and worker dissatisfaction abroad. The current drop may reflect improved bilateral coordination or stricter enforcement mechanisms. What this really means is that Vanuatu is recalibrating its position within regional labour flows. The PALM scheme has long been a critical income pipeline for households, so any contraction in asylum-related activity could signal either stabilisation or reduced access to alternative migration pathways.

Supreme Court rejects application lacking legal merit

The Vanuatu Supreme Court has dismissed a recent application on the basis that it “lacks legal merit”, reinforcing judicial scrutiny over cases perceived as weak or procedurally flawed. While specific litigants were not detailed in the brief, rulings like this typically hinge on insufficient evidence, jurisdictional issues, or failure to meet statutory thresholds. This decision underscores the judiciary’s role in maintaining procedural discipline. It also sends a clear signal to litigants and legal practitioners: the courts are not a venue for speculative or poorly grounded claims. In a small but increasingly complex legal system, these rulings help manage caseload pressure and uphold institutional credibility.

Former prime minister calls for non-alignment stance

A former prime minister has publicly urged Vanuatu to maintain its long-standing non-alignment policy , particularly amid intensifying geopolitical competition in the Pacific. The call reflects growing concern over external influence from major powers seeking strategic footholds in the region. The catch is that Vanuatu’s foreign policy has historically balanced relationships across competing blocs. The former leader’s position reinforces that “non-alignment is not neutrality, but strategic independence”, a framing often used in Pacific diplomacy. The renewed emphasis suggests internal debate about whether economic partnerships are beginning to blur political autonomy.

Prison sentence reforms raise capacity concerns

Proposals or trends toward longer prison sentences are triggering concerns about correctional facility capacity in Vanuatu. With infrastructure already limited, any increase in incarceration duration could quickly lead to overcrowding, resource strain, and human rights challenges. Officials and analysts are likely weighing a difficult trade-off: tougher sentencing as a deterrent versus the practical limits of the prison system. Without parallel investment in facilities or alternative sentencing frameworks, the system risks becoming unsustainable. This issue sits at the intersection of justice policy and state capacity, and it is not easily resolved.

Passport inquiry controversy and political accountability

Former prime minister Sato Kilman has not been summoned in an ongoing passport-related inquiry and has denied any allegations tied to the case. The situation points to continuing scrutiny over Vanuatu’s citizenship and passport programmes, which have faced international attention in recent years. Even without a formal summons, the political implications are significant. Allegations around passport schemes often raise questions about governance, transparency, and due diligence. Kilman’s denial adds another layer to an already sensitive issue, particularly as Vanuatu navigates external pressure to tighten oversight of its citizenship-by-investment framework.

“In a world wounded by arrogance, people are hungry and thirsty for justice. We must value those who believe in peace and dare to implement policies that go against the tide, focused on the common good,” he said during a speech.

At a recent African Union summit, reparations for the mass human trafficking, colonialism and apartheid were designated as a flagship priority of the Union. The move marks a significant moment in a long-running effort to coordinate Africa’s position on one of the gravest chapters in global history.

Ghana has been tasked with leading the development of a unified proposal. Situated on the West African coast, Ghana - like several neighbouring countries - became a major hub in the trafficking of enslaved Africans. Hundreds of thousands of men, women and children were forcibly taken from its shores and transported across the Atlantic in appalling conditions.

For decades, there was little international consensus about how to address this history. Many of the countries responsible sought to frame slavery as a closed chapter. Some African states prioritised other urgent post-independence challenges. Caribbean nations, whose populations include many descendants of enslaved Africans, developed their own approaches shaped by different political and economic realities.

Now, however, the African Union is attempting to bring together African states and the wider diaspora behind a common position.

The gravest crime

At the heart of the new initiative is a draft declaration that characterises the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity.

Slavery is already prohibited under international law as a peremptory norm - a jus cogens principle from which no derogation is permitted. The proposed resolution builds on this legal foundation and rests on three pillars - historical accuracy, legal defensibility and continental and diaspora alignment.

The language has been deliberately refined. The draft title reads: Declaration of the Trafficking in Enslaved Africans and Racialised Chattel Enslavement of Africans as the Gravest Crime Against Humanity . Supporters argue that such precision matters. It recognises the systematic trafficking of millions of Africans, the racialised and institutional nature of chattel enslavement, and the unprecedented scale and enduring consequences of these crimes.

The emphasis on describing slavery as a crime - rather than merely a trade or an economic system - reflects a broader shift in tone. For many African leaders, justice begins with acknowledgement: first, that a crime occurred, and second, an understanding of its nature and consequences.

A 15-point plan

Although the full text of the new declaration has yet to be published, its direction is informed by the 2023 Accra Proclamation on Reparations.

That proclamation sets out a 15-point plan. It includes the creation of a reparations fund, but extends far beyond financial compensation. It calls for reform of international financial institutions to produce a fairer global system for countries subjected to slavery and colonial exploitation. It demands the return of cultural artefacts removed during periods of enslavement and colonial rule. It urges the formation of a joint front across nations and peoples who suffered as a result of these systems.

The proclamation also links historical injustice to contemporary global inequalities. It highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on the Global South and argues that patterns of extraction and dependency established during colonialism continue today through economic and cultural dependence on former colonial powers.

In this framing, reparations are not simply about calculating a monetary sum for historical suffering. They are about restructuring relationships and correcting systemic imbalances that trace their origins to slavery and colonial rule.

It's not (only) about the money

African leaders have been clear that the issue of reparations and restitutive justice goes beyond money.

Setting the historical record straight is seen as a central objective. Around 12 million Africans were forcibly transported across the Atlantic. An estimated 2 million died during the Middle Passage - some from disease and brutality, others thrown overboard, and some choosing death over a life in bondage.

The argument is that this historical reality must be formally recognised at the highest international level. Supporters stress that no single payment or lump sum could meaningfully account for the scale of suffering or the generational harm inflicted. The damage extended far beyond those who were taken. Entire societies were destabilised. Generations of descendants across Africa and the diaspora continue to live with the social and economic consequences.

Questions of financial quantum are still under research, and leaders suggest that any eventual settlement would not simply involve distributing money to governments. Instead, they envision a broader programme of transformation - returning stolen artefacts, addressing structural inequities, and restoring opportunity to affected communities.

A Changing Global Context

The renewed push comes at a time of uncertainty in the international system. The multilateral order established after the Second World War is under strain. Nations increasingly act unilaterally and prioritise domestic interests. Humanitarian assistance and overseas development funding to Africa and other parts of the Global South are declining.

In this context, African leaders argue that the continent cannot remain a passive actor, appealing for aid while global priorities shift. Instead, they say Africa must take its destiny into its own hands and assert its moral and legal claims on the world stage.

The past cannot be undone. But it can be acknowledged. For those leading this initiative, acknowledgement is the first step towards justice.

After centuries in which the suffering of enslaved Africans was minimised, reframed or ignored, many across the continent believe the moment has come to secure formal recognition - and to begin reshaping the systems that grew out of that injustice.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

Bolsonaro had been sentenced in September to 27 years and three months in prison for his role in a coup attempt after losing the 2022 election. Authorities pointed to evidence that his ankle monitor had been tampered with, raising fears he could flee the country. His lawyers strongly objected to the detention, claiming the planned event was a “prayer vigil” and citing his constitutional right to religious gathering.

In the court’s ruling, Justice de Moraes warned that an encampment by Bolsonaro’s supporters could jeopardise public security and obstruct the terms of his house arrest. Bolsonaro’s appeal against his sentence is currently under consideration by a panel of Brazil’s Supreme Court, which has refused to reduce his term to date. The arrest marks a critical moment in Brazil’s political landscape, underscoring deep divisions and continuing international attention on the rule of law in Latin America .

Here’s what you should know about Hasina:

Beginnings

Political career

Struggles and exile

Sentenced to death

The ruling marks a dramatic turn in Bangladesh’s politics. Hasina, a three-time prime minister and daughter of the country’s founding father, has been a central figure in Bangladesh for decades, credited with major economic and social reforms. 

The tribunal’s decision fulfills a promise by interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus to hold former leaders accountable for the “July Revolution,” which began peacefully but turned violent after government suppression.

The wanted notice names Pa Chiung and Chen Po-yuan, a rapper known by his stage name Mannam PYC. Police in Quanzhou, a city facing Taiwan across the Taiwan Strait, said the two had long been “publishing and inciting separatist views.”

Authorities said anyone who helps capture the men could receive a reward of up to 250,000 yuan ($35,098).

Both influencers dismissed the accusations in posts on their Threads accounts. “I stand up for myself. The greater the wind , the more stable I am,” Chen wrote.

Pa Chiung said he learned about the news after waking up. “So it seems I have become Puma Shen,” he added, referring to the Taiwanese lawmaker China began investigating last month for alleged “separatist” activity.

Chen and Pa are known for their criticism of China. Taiwan’s government said Beijing is spreading “red terror,” referring to the ruling Communist Party’s colour, and using “long-armed jurisdiction” to accuse Taiwanese citizens of “separatism.”

Shen, who was in Berlin on Wednesday to testify at a German parliament hearing on disinformation, said China was threatening to have him arrested abroad but that he was not afraid. “China has long sought to silence the people of Taiwan through intimidation. I want to tell everyone that, as brave Taiwanese, we will not back down because of this,” he said.

Taiwan’s government has rejected China’s sovereignty claims, saying only the island’s people can decide their future.

Bhat’s DNA samples matched those of his mother’s, collected in Pulwama and brought to Delhi for comparison with remains preserved at Lok Nayak Hospital. 

Experts at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) confirmed the match, identifying Bhat as the driver whose body had been severely damaged in the explosion.

Investigators said DNA profiling was critical to the identification, as the remains were beyond recognition.

Police officials suspect Bhat was the leader of a “white-collar” terror cell composed largely of doctors. The group was allegedly part of an “inter-state and transnational” module linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind. 

Seven suspects were arrested in Jammu and Kashmir just hours before the Red Fort blast.

Investigators believe Bhat was “steering and motivating” the module, which included other medical professionals. A red Ford EcoSport linked to him was recovered from a farmhouse in Khandawali village, Haryana, on Wednesday. Forensic and ballistic teams examined the vehicle after it was seized.

The SUV, police said, was mainly used by Dr. Muzamil Shakeel Ganai, another doctor from Pulwama and one of the seven arrested suspects. Ganai worked alongside Bhat at the School of Medical Sciences and Research Centre at Al Falah University in Faridabad, Haryana.

Bhat, a resident of Koil village in Pulwama, had previously studied medicine in Srinagar and briefly worked as a senior resident at the Government Medical College in Anantnag.

Former colleagues later described him as negligent and abrasive, with a pattern of absenteeism and patient complaints.

Two other doctors from Al Falah University — Dr. Ganai and Dr. Shaheen Shahid Ansari of Lucknow — were detained in the days before the explosion.

Authorities are now focusing on whether the group planned further attacks and how a trained doctor became the alleged mastermind of one of Delhi’s deadliest blasts in years.

What to know:

Why it matters:

What they said:

The materials were not disclosed to the US Customs and Border Protection, thus the charge.

According to the US Department of Justice, the materials were transported through several shipments from a Chinese researcher from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan.

While Bai and Fengfan Zang were charged with smuggling, Zhiyong Zhang’s charge stems from the false statements he had made to a federal agent. All three individuals held a J-1 visa, which is granted to foreign nationals conducting research at a US university.

The Chinese researcher who sent the materials to the US, Chengxuan Han, had been deported from the US before the three were arrested, also for smuggling and making false statements.

Xi, Fengfan Zhang and Zhiyong Zhang had all been terminated from the University of Michigan following their refusal to participate in a meeting and internal investigation by the US school.

"To protest against violence , to take action against violence, and also obviously to protest so that right-wing groups, opportunistic parties, and scavengers do not use the rightful anger of the protest," said one participant.

Organisers, mostly young demonstrators, voiced frustration that political groups had adopted the Straw Hat Pirates’ Jolly Roger symbol for their own purposes. 

"Many times right-wing groups, fascist groups, are the first to criminalise protest , the first to take rights away from the LGBT community, to ignore structural or systemic problems, etc. So it is even incongruent for them to take a symbol that has nothing to do with them," said another protester.

Participants also denounced U.S. anti-drug operations in the Caribbean, likening them to past interventions in Latin America . 

"This narco narrative of 'they are narcos, let's kill them,' which is the same one the United States has used for interventions in Venezuela ," said one protester. 

Police monitored the demonstration, which briefly disrupted traffic along Paseo de la Reforma, but no major incidents were reported.

President José Raúl Mulino claimed that a U.S. Embassy official had made threatening remarks directed at him. This revelation stirred political discussions both domestically and internationally, raising questions about diplomatic relations between Panama and the United States. Mulino emphasised the importance of maintaining national sovereignty and transparency in foreign affairs while calling for clarification from diplomatic channels.

Mulino supports life sentences

In a strong stance on public safety, President Mulino declared that individuals convicted of heinous crimes “have no right to live,” expressing his support for the implementation of life sentences in Panama. His statement reflects a push toward harsher penalties and has ignited debate among human rights advocates, legal experts, and political figures about proportional justice and constitutional limits.

Chamber of Commerce urges the Assembly to discuss anti-corruption projects

The Panamanian Chamber of Commerce publicly urged the National Assembly to prioritise and discuss pending anti-corruption bills. Business leaders argue that the approval of these projects is critical to restoring public trust, strengthening institutions, and improving the country’s global reputation. The Chamber stressed that transparency reforms are essential for sustainable economic growth and foreign investment.

Panama strengthens fiscal transparency and bets on development with two new bills

The Panamanian government introduced two new bills designed to boost fiscal transparency and promote national development. These legislative efforts aim to modernise financial oversight, enhance accountability in public spending, and align with international standards for combating tax evasion and illicit financing. Authorities believe the measures will improve Panama’s standing with global financial institutions and reinforce investor confidence.

Statute reforms and a presidential candidacy in the fight for Panameñismo

Internal political shifts are underway within the Panameñista Party, where leaders are considering statute reforms and a new presidential candidacy. These moves are part of an effort to rejuvenate the party’s image and strengthen its position ahead of upcoming elections. The ongoing debates highlight ideological divisions and strategic recalibrations among party members, signalling a potentially transformative phase in Panama’s political landscape.

According to Middle East Eye , the bill would enable Israeli courts to impose capital punishment on Palestinians convicted of murder, especially when the motive is deemed “nationalistic” or “ideological.”

However, it would not apply to Israeli citizens, including settlers, who kill Palestinians under similar circumstances. The proposal, championed by Limor Son Har-Melech of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party and backed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, has ignited fierce debate about discrimination, legality, and timing amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Legal experts and government officials have already raised red flags. The committee’s legal adviser reportedly warned that the vote may be invalid because it was held during the Knesset’s recess and without consultation with key security bodies.

Gal Hirsch, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coordinator for hostages, cautioned that pressing ahead with the bill could endanger Israeli captives still held in Gaza.

Opposition lawmakers described the measure as “ an act of unprecedented savagery ,” arguing it risks institutionalising a two-tier justice system, one that applies capital punishment only to Palestinians.

Israel formally abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes in 1954. Since then, it has been reserved only for extreme cases such as genocide or treason, with the country’s sole execution being that of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann in 1962.

Although several attempts have been made in recent decades to revive capital punishment for terrorism, none have become law.

He was also ordered to pay $33 billion in reparations, with $29 billion earmarked for the Congolese state.

Decades before Kabila, Ahmadou Ahidjo, the first president of Cameroon, was similarly sentenced to death in absentia, though for a different reason. His successor, Paul Biya, accused him of staging a failed coup in 1983.

The conviction was the wedge that widened the rift between Ahidjo and Biya, who were former allies and top honchos of the ruling Cameroon National Union. It was even Ahidjo’s resignation that allowed Biya to assume what would be long-held power.

At the time of his sentencing, Ahidjo was living openly in exile in France , unlike Kabila, whose whereabouts are unknown. Biya later commuted the penalty to life imprisonment. Ahidjo died in 1989 in Senegal, where his remains remain, despite Biya’s long-standing pledge — unfulfilled to this day — to allow their return.

Biya eventually commuted the sentence to life imprisonment, and Ahidjo died in 1989 in Senegal, where his remains are still located, despite a longstanding pledge by Biya — who remains in power — to allow his body to return home.

In Chad, the pursuit of justice for former president Hissène Habré proved more complicated. 

Rights groups accused him of ordering killings, overseeing torture and rape, and other atrocities that drew international attention. Between 1993 and 2003, Belgian courts attempted to prosecute him, without success.

Chadian courts later sentenced Habré to death in absentia for war crimes and crimes against humanity, charges he dismissed as politically motivated. From exile in Senegal, however, he faced a special tribunal there that convicted him of rape, sexual slavery and responsibility for the deaths of 40,000 people during his rule.

Instead of execution, Habré was sentenced to life in prison in Dakar’s Prison du Cap Manuel. The verdict was historic: the first time one country’s courts tried the former leader of another for crimes against humanity. Habré died in 2021, aged 79.

These cases underscore how, across Africa, fallen leaders often remain entangled in the politics they once shaped — judged in absentia, pursued abroad, or posthumously remembered through sentences never carried out. 

Peruvian Interior Minister Carlos Alberto Malaver Odias emphasised the transnational nature of the criminal investigation. He explained that cooperation across South American countries was key: upon learning that Ozorio and another suspect were in Peru, authorities acted quickly. “Through fluid communication between South American countries, we are already fully aware and convinced that crime no longer belongs to just one country; these organisations are transnational in nature. The National Police immediately took action and carried out the corresponding operations,” he said, describing the arrests of Ozorio near Plaza Norte and Tony Hansen Valverde Victoriano, a Peruvian national also involved, near Pucusana.

The extradition represents a step forward in a case that shocked Argentina. The three victims—a 15-year-old girl and two 20-year-old women—were allegedly kidnapped, tortured, and killed by a gang led by Valverde Victoriano, known as ‘Pequeno J’. Investigators say Ozorio was the main accomplice in a criminal organisation linked to drug trafficking in Peru.

Authorities in both countries highlighted that while the arrests cannot undo the harm, they are intended to bring justice for the victims’ families and demonstrate the effectiveness of international cooperation in tackling cross-border crime.

China's Tang Renjian (death sentence)

China’s Changchun Intermediate People’s Court handed Tang Renjian, the former minister of agriculture and rural affairs, a death sentence with a two-year reprieve for corruption on Sunday, September 28.

According to the court , over the period from 2007 to 2024, Tang abused both central and local positions to assist companies in securing project contracts, adjust personnel placements, and also leverage his influence in exchange for money and valuables.

The total value of bribes was reported at 268 million yuan($37.6 million).

Tang, however, received a suspended death sentence, which allows for the punishment to be reduced to life in prison after two years if he commits no other offences.

China’s Communist Party expelled Tang in November 2024, just six months after an anti-graft probe removed him from office.

His arrest comes on the back of President Xi Jinping’s sweeping purge of security and political elites, which was launched in 2020 to enforce absolute loyalty. Before becoming agriculture minister, Tang served as governor of Gansu from 2017 to 2020.

DR Congo's Joseph Kabila (death sentence)

Joseph Kabila, who ruled the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 2001 to 2019, met his fate on Tuesday, September 30, when the country's high military court sentenced him to death in absentia.

Although he was not in court and represented by no lawyers, he was convicted of treason, war crimes, crimes against humanity, sexual assault and other grave offences, with the court highlighting his alleged collaboration with the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, which seized a part of Congo..

Alongside the death sentence, Kabila was ordered to pay $50 billion in damages to the Congolese state and victims.

Kabila was the president of DR Congo from 2001 to 2019. His tenure is reported to have been fraught with chronic instability, resource conflict, and regional interventions in the country.

Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro (27-year sentence)

Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court convicted ex-President Jair Bolsonaro of conspiring to orchestrate a coup after his 2022 election defeat and sentenced him to 27 years and three months in prison on September 11.

He was found guilty of leading a criminal organisation, attempting to abolish democratic rule by force, plotting a coup, committing violent damage, and degrading government property.

Evidence included his alleged role in planning the January 8, 2023, attacks on federal buildings in Brasília, pressuring the military, and even plotting assassinations of President Lula and Supreme Court justices.

The trial was historic, making Bolsonaro the first former Brazilian president convicted for directly attacking democracy. He remains under house arrest in Brasília, denies all charges as political persecution, and has filed an appeal seeking release.

The motion of censure, filed on September 23 by members of Congress from multiple parties, questioned Santiváñez’s suitability for office and cited ongoing investigations into alleged interference during his time at the Ministry of the Interior. Congress had confirmed that the debate and vote would take place on October 3.

Prime Minister Eduardo Arana previously stated he had no official information on planned resignations, despite mounting speculation in the media and growing political pressure.

Santiváñez’s resignation underscores ongoing political instability in Peru, where frequent ministerial changes have complicated governance . Since 2018, the country has seen six presidents and dozens of cabinet reshuffles, raising concerns among international investors and regional observers about policy continuity and institutional credibility.

Until the date of his resignation, Juan José Santiváñez   was the head of the Ministry of Justice for just 40 days and left the government of Dina Boluarte   when the president had less than a year left in office. In addition, he is retiring with a series of investigations and questions that involve him as a 'key man' of an alleged criminal organisation in which even the president's brother, Nicanor Boluarte, would be involved.

“The most concerning is the distressing dehumanisation of a world with selective emotions based on interests and geopolitical stakes,” Faye said. “There can be no justice based on law when what serves as international order is governed by the logic of double standards, by the law of the strongest and partisan spirit,” he remarked.

Faye warned that Africa remains on the front lines of insecurity, facing armed conflicts, terrorism in the Sahel, transnational crime, and political instability. He called for an integrated response combining prevention, resilience, and responsibility, backed by predictable and sustainable funding for African peace support operations. 

Turning to economic reform, the Senegalese leader said the current global financial system fails to serve developing nations. Faye also pressed for the full implementation of the Seville Commitment and the Sustainable Development Goals, arguing these reforms are essential to guarantee universal access to healthcare, water , food, education, energy, and digital technology.

The Chilean leader’s intervention came as civilian casualties in Gaza continue to mount. Palestinian health authorities say tens of thousands of people have been killed since the start of Israel’s military campaign, many of them women and children .

Boric argued that the suffering transcended borders. “When beneath the rubble lie boys and girls, there is a genuine pain in our homeland, in Chile,” he said. The deaths of innocents, he added, “resonate far beyond Gaza.”

He also condemned what he described as repeated violations of sovereignty and international law. Without naming specific countries, he criticised assassinations on neutral territory, attacks on nuclear facilities and wars launched under false pretences.

"That is precisely why these United Nations were created: to dialogue and decide that barbarity is not acceptable, that human rights must be respected regardless of ideologies, of victims or of perpetrators, and that international law is the guarantee that reason will always prevail over force."

The Chilean president framed his remarks as part of a broader call for renewed dialogue.

He urged nations to build bridges rather than deepen divides, pointing to a new regional initiative on democracy launched with Brazil, Spain, Uruguay and Colombia.

The proposal has sparked intense polarisation. Some lawmakers are pushing for a broad amnesty, arguing for legal forgiveness across the board, while others—including leaders in both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate—seek a more limited approach that would exclude Bolsonaro and the key orchestrators of the coup. Critics of the bill stress that such an amnesty could undermine the country’s democratic framework and be seen as unconstitutional, while supporters contend that Parliament has the authority to debate the scope of forgiveness.

Legal experts note the tension between the STF’s stance—that crimes against democracy are unforgivable—and the political manoeuvring within Congress. The controversy highlights the deep divisions within Brazil’s political landscape, raising questions about the resilience of its democratic institutions and the rule of law .

Since September 9, the former leader has been serving a one-year sentence — a term commuted by the king in 2023 from an original eight-year conviction for conflicts of interest and abuse of power.

"I humbly accept and am ready to enter the (judicial) process after today's verdict," Thaksin said in a statement after the ruling. "Even as I lose my freedom today, I still have the freedom of thought to benefit the country and the people."

Thaksin, 76, returned to Thailand in 2023 after 15 years of self-imposed exile in Dubai. Upon arrival by private jet, he was taken directly to prison but spent only a few hours there before complaining of chest pains and heart problems.

The billionaire former telecoms tycoon — one of Thailand’s richest men — was quickly transferred to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok, where he remained under detention for six months, until February 2024.

In May, photos and videos posted by Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, chairman of the Thai Pakdee Party, revealed that Thaksin’s hospital suite was anything but austere. The room featured couches, cooking facilities and other amenities befitting a VIP.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court ruled that his prolonged hospital stay was a tactic to avoid imprisonment, noting that minor surgeries had been carried out to extend his time there.

Now, Thaksin faces a harsher reality.

Less than 20 kilometres from the Police General Hospital, Klong Prem Central Prison is where Thaksin will serve his one-year sentence, alongside roughly 6,500 inmates across 11 zones.

Inside the maximum-security facility, prisoners sleep with three blankets, share communal bathing areas and eat bland food, according to accounts from people familiar with the prison who spoke to Reuters .

Reuters photographs of the general cells show peeling walls, grime, and a single ceiling fan for a cell that houses as many as 25. It remains unclear which section of the prison Thaksin has been assigned to, given the size of the complex.

What is clear is that the conditions of Klong Prem stand are a stark contrast to the hospital suite where he spent the past year. And when Thaksin eventually leaves prison, he will step back into a Thai political landscape markedly different from the one he once dominated.

The Maldives government strongly denounced Israel’s plan to seize control of Gaza, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law. Officials reiterated support for Palestinian self-determination and urged the global community to act decisively.

Thulhaadhoo Airport project back on track

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu acknowledged an 18-month delay in the Thulhaadhoo Airport project, citing financial arrangements as the main cause. He assured residents that construction will now move forward without further interruptions.

Abdul Ghani Mohamed sworn in as Chief Justice

The Maldives has a new Chief Justice, Abdul Ghani Mohamed, whom Parliament unanimously approved. He succeeds Ahmed Muthasim Adnan, who recently retired.

Decentralisation Act amendments trigger backlash

Over 80 local councils opposed proposed amendments to the Decentralisation Act, claiming the changes would weaken local governance and democratic aspirations. Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih pledged to restore council powers if his party regains leadership.

Customs scandal over vape products linked to minister’s son

A high-profile scandal emerged after Maldives Customs detained Abdulla Mahil Shaheem, son of the Minister of Islamic Affairs, for attempting to import banned vape products. The case has raised serious questions about potential government involvement in illicit trade.

Constitutional Court judges openly criticised suspended Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Hlalefang Motinyane for delaying her own legal case against Prime Minister Sam Matekane’s attempt to remove her from office. The situation has been further complicated by the Law Society of Lesotho, which filed an urgent application against her suspension.

Heated debate over parliament’s M1 billion budget bid

Lawmakers sparked controversy after proposing that Parliament receive 3% of the national budget, over M1 billion. Critics, including the Minister of Law and Justice, argued the move would be fiscally irresponsible and excessive, especially given Lesotho’s fragile public finances.

Opposition questions defence force reappointment

Opposition parties raised alarm over Prime Minister Matekane’s decision to reappoint Lieutenant General Mojalefa Letsoela as Commander of the Lesotho Defence Force. Critics argue the move reflects a lack of transparency and highlights Matekane’s close ties with the military leadership.

Lesotho–South Africa water deal under review

Lesotho and South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a key regional infrastructure initiative. Ministers from both countries discussed ways to manage cost overruns and delays, signalling a potential overhaul of project agreements.

Controversial citizenship bill sparks debate

Law and Justice Minister Lebohang Hlaele defended a proposed amendment to the Citizenship Order, which would reserve high-ranking government positions exclusively for indigenous Basotho. While supporters say it protects national identity, critics warn it risks undermining inclusivity and merit-based governance.

Nine of eleven recognised opposition parties have formally launched the Opposition Dialogue, a political forum to coordinate actions against government decisions. The bloc includes Fuerza del Pueblo, PRD, GenS, PQDC, PSC, PDI, PED, BIS, and Camino Nuevo. Coordinated by José Francisco Peña Guaba (BIS) and spokesperson Soraya Aquino (PSC), the group will meet biweekly to strengthen unity, expand outreach, integrate unrecognised groups, and form policy-focused committees.

Political violence against women

Duarte Province Representative Dorina Rodríguez denounced the normalisation of political violence against women, calling it a major barrier to their electoral participation. Speaking on the A Metro y Medio Podcast , she shared her struggles starting without resources or support, relying on faith and community service to build her career. Rodríguez recalled campaign hardships, including nearly losing her vehicle, and highlighted her legislative role on the Penal Code Commission, where she pushed for harsher penalties for child sexual abusers.

Dominican Republic to host Open Justice Conference

The Dominican Republic will host the First International Conference on Open Justice on August 27–28, with representatives from 21 countries in attendance. Organised by the Dominican Judiciary, RIJA, and the Open Government Partnership, the event will share best practices on transparency, citizen participation, and access to justice. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Arias Arzeno highlighted its importance for building more accessible justice systems.

Abinader’s proposal for Leonel to go to Rome with FAO questioned

Communicator Julio Samuel Sierra has criticised President Abinader’s remark about paying for former President Leonel Fernández to travel to Rome and debate the FAO, after it praised the DR’s poverty reduction. Sierra called it a joke and questioned why the government avoids addressing local issues, such as electricity, water, and security. His comments were shared on El Nuevo Diario en la Tarde alongside fellow journalists.

Cancellation of President Abinader’s 5th anniversary event explained

Presidency Minister and PRM president José Ignacio Paliza explained from Japan that President Abinader cancelled the event marking his five years in office, stressing it is 'a time to work, not celebrate.' Abinader, in a letter to party leaders, cited responsibility to address national needs and focus on citizens’ problems. Paliza added that while the PRM proposed the event, the president felt the moment was not right for large-scale political activities.

In addition to the prison term, Masra was fined 1 billion CFA francs, which equates to approximately $1.8 million. His legal counsel labelled the sentence “an ignominy and unworthy humiliation,” and confirmed an appeal will be filed.

Before departing the courtroom, Masra delivered a defiant message to his supporters to “stand firm.” A message they have lived up to.

Large protests emerged in the country on Saturday, August 9, after the ruling, as supporters chanted that the trial and sentence were unfair.

According to Sitack Yombatina, Vice President of the Transformers Party, the supposed crime of the party leader, Masra, is being handled as a political case.

"I spoke with a few people , and the politicians are going to sort this out, which means that the magistrates who have the final say, who made the law, who have the text at their disposal, who are in their jurisdiction, who are in their territory, are unable to pronounce judgement based on the written texts and are deferring to politicians. There is a problem. Why didn't we do this at the National Assembly if it's political? Why didn't we do this at the Palace on 15 January if it's political? Why didn't we do this at the Presidency of the Republic if it's political? Why didn't we do this at the Premature if it's political? Why didn't we do it at the Ombudsman's office if it's political?" he quizzed.

A day earlier, on August 8, 2025, Chad’s prosecutor general had urged the court to impose an even harsher sentence of 25 years in prison along with the confiscation of assets and a demand for 5 billion West African CFA francs (around $8.9 million) in compensation to the state.

Masra, who briefly served as prime minister in early 2024, challenged President Mahamat Déby in the disputed 2024 presidential election. After contesting the results, he resigned his post in late May 2024.

The incident triggering these charges occurred amid escalating ethnic and regional tensions in Logone Occidental in May 2025 and claimed 35 lives.

Although Justice Yuoh reached the age of retirement earlier this year, the Liberian Constitution allows her to remain in office until she finishes all pending cases that were started before she turned 70.

Legal experts say Justice Yuoh is expected to step down by August 15, once she has completed her duties.

But the fact that Gbeisay may be commissioned by the president this week has sparked concern that both judges could be seen as holding the same office at the same time.

Liberia’s Constitution states that judges retire at age 70 but may stay on long enough to finish the work already on their desks.

It also states that a Chief Justice must take an oath of office before officially assuming the position.

Some legal observers fear that if Gbeisay is sworn in before August 15, it would create a rare situation where Liberia has two Chief Justices, which could raise questions over the legal authority of decisions made by the court.

However, the country’s Bar Association says this can be avoided.

“There is no potential for a constitutional and institutional crisis depending on how the transition is managed,” said Cllr. Bornor Varmah, president of the Liberia National Bar Association.

Traditionally, Liberian Chief Justices only assume office after their predecessors officially leave.

He explained that the key issue is not the nomination or confirmation of the new judge, but when he takes the oath and starts work.

Air India to cut international flights on widebody aircraft by 15%

Air India said on June 18 that it will cut international operations on its widebody aircraft by 15% for the next few weeks, citing ongoing safety inspections and operational disruptions. Read more here .

Could a single phone call collapse Thailand's government?

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra apologised Thursday, June 19, for a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen that has provoked widespread anger and put her government on the brink of collapse. Read more here .

Indonesian cities plan to introduce 'military-style' boot camps to reform misbehaving students

Some cities in Indonesia are planning to send troubled students and young people to military barracks for training, as part of efforts to improve discipline and behaviour. Read more here .

Africa

Côte d'Ivoire just got $15m to save forests - Here’s what that means

Côte d'Ivoire will channel a new $15 million payment from the World Bank into forest conservation efforts and community development around Taï National Park, under the Emission Reduction Payment Project (PRE). Read more here .

Why Sudan wants UN envoy dismissed

More than 100 Sudanese political and civic leaders are demanding the removal of UN envoy Ramtane Lamamra, accusing him of bias toward the military and failing to lead an effective peace process in Sudan. Read more here .

‘No bra, no entry’ - viral exam hall video sparks outrage in Nigeria

A Nigerian university is facing widespread condemnation after a viral video revealed female students being physically checked to ensure they were wearing bras before entering an exam hall. Read more here .

Americas

Why Haiti is revisiting the murder of its ex-president

Nearly four years after the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse, Haiti is relaunching stalled investigations into the killing amid a deepening security crisis and a crumbling judiciary. Read more here .

From peace negotiator to prisoner: Salvadoran artist in exile fights for his father's freedom

Atilio Montalvo Valiente, who lives in El Salvador, has been chasing justice for His sick father, a hero of El Salvador’s peace process, who was kidnapped and imprisoned by the government when he was just a little over 2 years old. Read more here .

Guyana becomes the world’s only fully food self-sufficient country in 2025

Guyana has emerged as the only country in the world that can fully feed itself without relying on food imports, according to a comprehensive 2025 study published in the journal Nature Food. Read more here .

"The head, the whole head, was full of blood, the whole head. On top of the head, normally we call it the scalp, it was full of blood. And then when we checked inside that blood, it went inside his brain. So the cause of death of Albert is because of a head injury caused by blunt trauma, and he had signs of neck compression," Geoffrey Mutuma, a pathologist, said.

This revelation defeats the police report, which states that the deceased died from repeatedly hitting his head against the wall of the police cell.

"While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall," a police statement said. "He was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival."

Ojwang was arrested on Friday, June 6, in Homa Bay, a town in western Kenya.

He was detained in connection with a post on X that was allegedly critical of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

He was later transferred to Nairobi on Sunday, June 8, where the police claim he was found unconscious from self-inflicted injuries.

Ojwang's death sparked public outcry as activists and protesters swarmed Nairobi to demonstrate for justice.

To 'salvage' the situation, the country's police chief, Douglas Kanja, on Monday, June 9, suspended the station head and all police officers who were on duty the day Ojwang died for independent investigations.

South African mother given life sentence for trafficking 6-year-old daughter

A South African mother and two accomplices were sentenced to life on Thursday for trafficking her 6-year-old daughter, in a case that gripped the nation. Kelly Smith, her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and friend Steveno Van Rhyn were convicted of kidnapping and trafficking Joshlin Smith, who vanished from a small Western Cape town last year. Read more here .

Zimbabwe starts charging car owners for radio licenses

Zimbabwe has enacted a law requiring all car owners to pay an annual US$92 radio licence fee, signed by President Mnangagwa on 23 May 2025, according to local reports. Read more here .

Trump disrespected Africans, says Ghana’s president in scathing commentary

Ghana’s President Mahama has condemned Donald Trump for distorting African history after Trump’s controversial meeting with South African President Ramaphosa. In The Guardian, Mahama called Trump’s “white genocide” claim a dangerous misuse of language that fuels historical injustices. Read more here .

Asia

Indonesia quarry collapse kills 19, search continues for victims trapped under rubble

A rock collapse at a quarry in Cirebon, West Java, killed 19, injured 8, and left 6 missing, local police said Sunday. Authorities continued searching for survivors in the rubble following Friday’s (May 30) collapse. Read more here .

Chinese students face anxious wait for visas under US crackdown

Amid Washington’s renewed visa crackdown on Chinese students, Lainey, a 24-year-old sociology postgraduate, is anxiously waiting to resume her PhD application at the University of California. “We feel helpless,” she said, declining to give her surname. Read more here .

Opal Suchata Chuangsri becomes Thailand’s first Miss World

Opal Suchata Chuangsri, 22, made history on May 31 by becoming the first Thai woman crowned Miss World at the 72nd pageant in Hyderabad, India. She dedicated her win to inspiring young girls to make a difference. Read more here .

Latin America

Mistrial ruled in case against Diego Maradona's medical team, lawyers say

The homicide case against Diego Maradona's medical team was declared a mistrial, their lawyers said Thursday. Seven medics faced negligent homicide charges after Maradona died in 2020. The soccer legend led Argentina to a 1986 World Cup victory and won two Serie A titles with Napoli. Read more here .

Brazil declared free of foot-and-mouth disease without vaccination

The World Organisation for Animal Health has declared Brazil, the world’s top beef exporter, free of foot-and-mouth disease without vaccination. This milestone could open new markets for Brazil’s major meatpackers, including JBS, Minerva, and Marfrig. Read more here .

World’s First: Mexico lets voters pick all judges

Mexico, on June 1, allowed citizens to choose all judges and magistrates, including Supreme Court justices — a global first. The government-backed reform aims to curb corruption and restore trust in the justice system. Read more here .

According to Margaret Satterthwaite, the UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Guatemala’s democratic future depends on whether its courts can remain free from political influence and whether justice is applied fairly.

During a visit to the country, Jurist News reports, she raised concerns about what she called a worrying trend of legal attacks against judges, lawyers, prosecutors, and journalists who have worked on corruption cases or defended the rule of law.

Her statement described how many of these officials have faced unfair charges, detention, or smear campaigns aimed at silencing them.

She noted that these incidents are part of a broader effort to weaken Guatemala’s justice system and stop efforts to hold powerful figures accountable.

President Bernardo Arévalo, who met with the UN expert during her visit, admitted that the judiciary still faces deep problems, including corruption and influence from political and business interests.

On his part, he promised to work toward restoring public trust and protecting judicial independence but said the process would take time and need strong international backing.

Interior Minister Francisco Jiménez also spoke with Satterthwaite and said the government is trying to better protect judges and legal workers, especially those handling sensitive cases.

He confirmed that many still face threats and legal harassment.

Concerns about political interference in Guatemala’s courts have grown in recent years. In 2022, international observers said former anti-corruption officials were being prosecuted using weak evidence, raising fears that the law was being misused to punish dissent.

Satterthwaite urged Guatemala to make its judicial appointments more open and fair and to stop targeting people who work to defend justice.

Without change, she warned, the country risks sliding further away from democracy.

The Menendez brothers received life sentences without the possibility of parole in 1996 for the murder of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in 1989. Their defense claimed they acted in self-defense following years of alleged abuse, while prosecutors argued their motivations were tied to inheritance. The high-profile nature of the case has been reignited by media productions, including a Netflix drama.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office recently informed the district attorney that part of a risk assessment related to the siblings had been finalized, prompting prosecutors to seek a postponement to review these documents. This led to confusion in court regarding the context and applicability of the reports. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman indicated the necessity of considering this information for assessing the brothers' potential risks to society .

The intended hearings aimed to examine whether Erik and Lyle Menendez have rehabilitated sufficiently to warrant a lesser sentence. Former District Attorney George Gascón previously suggested a reduction of their sentences to 50 years with parole eligibility, while their defense attorney proposed a motion for reclassification of their charges to manslaughter for immediate release.

Past delays to the hearings occurred due to other logistical issues, including natural disasters and procedural withdrawals by prosecutors. On the day of the latest hearing, neither the judge nor the brothers’ lawyers had access to the critical parole report, which sparked intense debate within the courtroom. Judge Michael Jesic expressed frustration, seeking clarity from the governor's office about the report’s contents.

Both brothers observed the proceedings remotely from a San Diego correctional facility, displaying no noted reactions to the courtroom developments. Tensions escalated particularly when Geragos condemned Hochman for releasing comments concerning the parole board's report to the media, announcing his intention to file a motion for Hochman’s removal from the case.

Hochman recently reversed earlier support for the brothers' resentencing, stating their lack of accountability for past deceit during their trial as a factor against their case. Despite these issues, the extended Menendez family has publicly expressed their forgiveness and desire for the brothers' release, while some family members have filed complaints against the prosecution for perceived mistreatment and lack of sensitivity.

A last hearing provoked significant outcry when prosecutors displayed a crime scene photo unexpectedly, leading to assertions of disrespect from family representatives. While Balian acknowledged the mistake, he emphasized the crimes committed by the Menendez brothers as the source of such distress.

"Why do we have to go to these extreme measures? It's crazy to me; it's absurd, it's insane. We don’t have to cry this loud to be heard," said Kim Shandu, a student in Cape Town who is utterly disappointed in the justice delivery system in South Africa.

Janine de Vos, a mother-of-two who was at the Cape Town demonstration also echoed this sentiment when she told AFP "Our justice system always fails us, I have no, no, no trust in our justice system and something needs to be done and someone needs to take accountability of whats happening with our children out there."

Cwecwe, who is now 8 was allegedly raped on her school premises , Bergview College in October 2024 while waiting for her transport back home. The case is, however, catching fire after her mother shared her quest for justice some two weeks ago.

Despite the public uproar and outcry, no arrest has been made so far. But South Africa's police minister, Senzo Mchunu, shared last week that his outfit was seriously investigating the case and had even identified three suspects including staff of the school.

This case is one of many witnessed in South Africa over the years, and it has had slow justice proceedings, too.

In a separate incident, police on Tuesday, April 1 reported the arrest of a primary school teacher accused of raping a 13-year-old student in northern South Africa.

According to United Nations figures, one in three women in South Africa suffers violence or sexual abuse in their lifetimes.

Between 2023 and 2024, out of 42,500 rape cases reported, police data indicates that 17,000 involved children. However, only 449 child rape cases were brought to trial during the period.

Her son, Alaa, is one of Egypt’s most famous activists. He was arrested in 2019 after sharing a text about torture in Egyptian prisons.

In 2021, he was sentenced to five years in jail for "spreading false information."

For years, Soueif has fought against injustice in Egypt. She has marched in protests, written about human rights, and been arrested multiple times.

Now, she says her son’s freedom is more important than her own life.

"I will continue my hunger strike, either until Alaa is released, or until I completely collapse, or even die," she told AFP in February.

Soueif is not just any activist—she comes from a family known for fighting back. Her late husband, Ahmed Seif al-Islam, was a human rights lawyer who spent years in prison. Their children followed the same path.

Alaa, 43, has spent much of his life behind bars. He was a key figure in the 2011 revolution that ended Hosni Mubarak’s rule.

His sister, Mona Seif, started a campaign against military trials for civilians. His youngest sister, Sanaa Seif, is a filmmaker and activist who has been jailed multiple times.

When their father died in 2014, Alaa and Sanaa were both in prison.

"Laila has always had a very strong conscience, defending human rights for all and passing that on to her children. It takes extraordinary courage," activist Mona Mina said.

Since starting her hunger strike, Soueif has met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, hoping he will pressure Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Foreign Minister David Lammy even travelled to Cairo to ask for Alaa’s release, but there has been no breakthrough.

Born in London in 1956, Soueif grew up in a family that valued knowledge and debate.

Her father was a psychology professor, and her mother was an expert in English literature. As a student in the 1970s, she protested against Egypt’s government and later helped create movements demanding academic freedom and democracy.

When asked if Alaa got his rebellious spirit from her, she did not hesitate. "Oh yes! My whole family has enough fighting spirit to last any length of time."

Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya welcomed the decision, emphasising its urgency. "This shows that today the world wants the situation in the east of the DRC to be resolved quickly," he said in Geneva.

Muyaya highlighted the swift response to the DRC’s request for a special session, noting the unanimous vote in favour of the investigation.

"We are relieved to see that our request was not only responded to promptly but also passed quickly to the vote and unanimously," he told the AFP.

Adding that, "this is a sign that the world wants the perpetrators to be identified and punished."

The investigation aims to hold those responsible accountable and bring justice to the victims of the ongoing violence.

Yet without a care about the consequences for a few minutes of pleasure, perpetrators continue to have their way.

However, due to properly placed measures, some countries get high numbers of reports from victims and families who believe justice could be served.

Here is a list of such countries:

Grenada - 153.28

Sweden - 88.98

Eswatini - 76.07

Panama -75.13

Iceland 56.98

United Kingdom -52.99

France - 52.56

Namibia - 47.74

Saint Kitts and Nevis - 46.21

Norway - 45.73

He has been detained at Tamara prison near Tegucigalpa, awaiting his first trial hearing scheduled for January 10.

Bertha Oliva, the general coordinator of the Committee of the Families of the Detained Disappeared in Honduras (COFADEH), emphasised the gravity of the charges. 

“Defenders of Mr. Romeo Vasquez Velasquez, let it be clear that you are facing a case of human rights violations, a case against humanity. Crimes against humanity are imprescriptible,” she is quoted by the AFP.

Silvia Mancia, the mother of Isis Obed Murillo, shared her anguish over the years since her son’s death. 

“There have been very difficult moments over these 15 years. There has been suffering and pain; sometimes the wound closes, and then it reopens. But here we are, and we are asking for justice. Even if it is crying in the streets, even if it is crying in the meetings, we are asking for justice,” she said.

David Lopez, the father of Murillo, echoed the call for accountability. “We only want justice. We want justice so that Honduras can live as a free, sovereign, and independent country, as the slogan on the National Coat of Arms says,” he said.

On December 31, 2024, the Seoul Western District Court issued warrants to detain President Yoon and search his office and residence. This unprecedented move marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced such legal action.

The court's decision was based on allegations that Yoon's actions amounted to rebellion, a charge that carries severe penalties under South Korean law.

President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, faced allegations of rebellion following his controversial declaration of martial law earlier in the month.

The declaration saw the deployment of hundreds of troops and police officers to the National Assembly on December 3.

Speaking before lawmakers, Sonko confirmed that the bill to repeal the controversial amnesty would be presented in the coming weeks, with the goal of ensuring that all facts related to the violence are brought to light and responsibilities are assigned, regardless of where they lie.

"In the coming weeks, a bill will be submitted to your august assembly to repeal the amnesty law passed on 6 March 2024 by the previous legislature so that all the facts can be brought to light and responsibilities established, regardless of where they lie," Sonko said, adding that "This is not a witch-hunt, nor is it about revenge, because we have no desire for revenge, far from it. It is simply a question of justice, the pillar without which no social peace can be guaranteed."

The March 2024 amnesty law, which sparked widespread controversy, had been passed by the outgoing government under Sall, granting immunity to those involved in the violent events that occurred during political unrest. The violence, which involved clashes between opposition groups and security forces, escalated into deadly confrontations, leaving dozens of casualties in its wake.

Sonko, who has positioned himself as a staunch advocate for justice and accountability, also indicated that his government plans to allocate funds for victim compensation as part of a broader effort to address the trauma and loss caused by the violence.

A soldier from Uganda's Special Forces Command (SFC), identified as Pte Bony Ameny, is on the run after allegedly shooting three civilians dead and injuring three others in Agago District. The incident occurred around 12:30 AM in Ngora East village, approximately 15 kilometres from his deployment area. The deceased has been identified as 16-year-old Florence Ajalo, 52-year-old Akidi Santina, and her 19-year-old daughter, Sunday Apio. The injured include 45-year-old Charles Kidega and two others, who are receiving treatment at Dr Ambrosoli Hospital. Local officials stated the shooting stemmed from a dispute involving Ameny's wife, who had rekindled a past relationship, the Monitor reports.

Ghanaian firm under investigation

Ugandan authorities have launched an investigation into the Jospong Group of Companies, a Ghanaian firm, following allegations of procurement irregularities related to a landfill management contract. The Inspector General of Government (IGG) has suspended all activities at the Kiteezi landfill involving Jospong, which proposed to manage the site without cost to the Ugandan government. Concerns have been raised about the lack of an open bidding process and whether other interested investors were overlooked. As reported by Modern Ghana , The State Minister for Kampala insists that all legal procedures were followed in awarding the contract, while the IGG's investigation seeks to clarify these claims and the project's funding. The deal, aimed at addressing Uganda's waste management issues, is now under scrutiny for transparency and governance.

Justice in Uganda

Lady Justice Faridah Bukirwa has emerged as a symbol of justice in Uganda, known for her exceptional efficiency and commitment to the rule of law, notably closing 1,866 cases in a year. Her recent sidelining raises concerns about the government's dedication to women's empowerment and threatens to undermine progress made in gender equality. Many in the Busoga region and beyond are demanding her reinstatement, viewing it as essential not just for judicial credibility but also for the empowerment of women in leadership positions. Nile Post reports that the removal of Justice Bukirwa is seen as a step back from the advancements women have fought for in Uganda and calls for global solidarity to support her return. This situation highlights the intertwined battles for judicial independence and gender equality, underscoring the need for a united front in advocating for women's rights.

Malnutrition on the rise

Acute malnutrition is severely impacting Northern Uganda, particularly in Omoro and Otuke districts, where over 268,000 children are affected. Many families struggle to provide nutritious meals due to poverty, diseases, and inadequate resources. Parents, like Night Aloyo and Betty Awor, report spending significant amounts on treatment for their malnourished children, who often suffer from persistent health issues. According to the Monitor , while Uganda has made progress in reducing malnutrition rates, it is not enough to meet global commitments. Factors contributing to high malnutrition include inadequate food consumption, poor sanitation, and extreme weather events affecting agricultural productivity. Additionally, healthcare facilities face challenges due to shortages of ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), essential for treating severe malnutrition.

Ugandan shilling selling price

The Ugandan shilling remained stable on October 21, 2024, with slight strengthening due to inflows from charities and remittances, trading at 3,760/3,770 compared to the previous close of 3,662/3,672, CBNC Africa reports.

Despite the numerous allegations against Diddy, his defence team stands by its previous comments that the rapper is bouncing back stronger.

"He's doing fine (Sean "Diddy" Combs). You know, Dr King called it the law of unintended consequences. So sometimes the more you push a person down, the stronger they get and so he's making an adjustment. He had his family here today to support him. We really want to put an end to all of the clowning that we see on the Internet. This is a serious proceeding with serious consequences, and all of us are addressing it accordingly," Diddy's lawyer Anthony Ricco told the press on Thursday.

The charges against Combs stem from an extensive investigation into allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering. Federal prosecutors have accused the music mogul of orchestrating a network that exploited individuals for commercial sex acts.

R&B singer Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit against Sean "Diddy" Combs in 2023, accusing him of repeated physical abuse, sexual exploitation, and rape throughout their decade-long professional and personal relationship.

In November 2023, the two reached an undisclosed settlement, while Combs firmly denied the accusations.

Cassie's lawsuit opened a plethora of legal actions against the 54-year-old rapper by more than 100 people including singer Dawn Richard.

His show, titled "Mort en exercice à Makala" to wit, 'Death in Exercise at Makala', portrays prison as a place where convicts are "buried alive."

Malafi was recently released after serving a one-month sentence in Makala. He was imprisoned for publicly defending a group of dancers jailed for "indecent exposure." Reflecting on his experience with the AFP, he expressed shock at being arrested for advocating artistic expression.

"For me, it's a shock," he said. "To be arrested because you're a cultural centre, to be arrested because you want to defend artistic expression... I went into prison, and it's like dying in action, dying in what you're doing."

Malafi’s performance wants his performance to be a call for justice for collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Culture to protect artists. He argues that artists are the "guardians" of community education and deserve better legal protections.

A director and actor in the show Bavon Diana, praised Malafi’s powerful use of religious symbolism, noting that his portrayal of Jesus speaks to the suffering he endured in Makala. "You can feel it's Jesus, and it tells us what he experienced in prison," he remarked 

Congo’s largest prison, Makala was built with a capacity for only about 1,500 inmates, however now, it hosts over 12,000 inmates. 

On May 16, 2024, South Sudanese rebel opposition groups and officials signed a peace deal at the Tumaini Initiative peace talks in Nairobi, Kenya. According to Global South World , the agreement was signed in the presence of senior government officials, diplomats, opposition groups, civil society members, and bilateral partners, aiming to establish a foundation for lasting peace in South Sudan.

Humanitarian aid talks

The Sudanese government and SPLM-North have begun talks in Juba to reach a ceasefire agreement allowing humanitarian aid delivery to conflict-affected areas. The South Sudanese government is mediating the sessions, and the goal is to facilitate the delivery of essential supplies to those in need. According to Radio Tamazuj , the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-North) delegation, led by Abdelaziz Adam al-Hilu.delegation emphasised the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, while Sudan's Defense Minister Major General Ibrahim Yassin highlighted the importance of a cessation of hostilities for aid delivery.

Justice delivery boost

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) organised a three-day workshop for justice actors in Gogrial West County, which focused on strengthening the criminal justice chain. The workshop addressed crucial topics such as criminal law principles, gender issues, and children's rights, and emphasized the importance of integrity and interconnectivity among justice actors. Participants shared their perspectives and committed to collaborative efforts to enhance the legal framework. As reported by Social News XYZ , the workshop provided practical solutions and emphasised the importance of applying the knowledge gained to serve communities with integrity. The High Court President advised justice actors to exercise their duties independently and without political interference. The workshop was commended for enhancing justice delivery.

Warnings of severe floods

On Thursday, May 16, South Sudan issued a warning of severe flooding as water levels in Lake Victoria, a source of the Nile, reached a record high. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng, reported receiving information from neighbouring Uganda indicating that Lake Victoria's water levels have risen by 13.6 meters, the highest in the Nile Basin region in 128 years. According to a report by Xinhua , this surge has also elevated the water level in a dam in Jinja, Uganda. On Thursday, South Sudan issued a warning of severe flooding as water levels in Lake Victoria, a source of the Nile, reached a record high. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng, reported receiving information from neighbouring Uganda indicating that Lake Victoria's water levels have risen by 13.6 meters, the highest in the Nile Basin region in 128 years. This surge has also elevated the water level in a dam in Jinja, Uganda.

Low forex trade

South Sudan's forex reserves are at a historic low, leading to inflationary pressures and a weakening currency. According to Zawya , declining oil revenues and geopolitical tensions are contributing to the economic woes. The country is struggling with high inflation and debt distress and faces challenges from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan. The upcoming general election is adding to the economic strain. The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has suspended the use of US dollars in the local economy to address the forex demand and inflation.

For President Boakai, the decision represents a necessary and courageous step forward. "Liberia has endured downpours of agony," he stated .

Critics of the war crimes court caution that it may reopen old wounds, yet Liberian President Boakai believes it will pave the way for “justice and healing.”

Adama K Dempster, one of the lead campaigners for the war crimes court, emphasised its importance. "It's an open show of support for war victims and survivors of the civil wars," he told the BBC .

In April, 28 out of the 30 senators in the Liberian Senate voted to establish the war crimes court following a similar vote of approval by the lower house of parliament in the previous month.

Atrocities throughout the bloody conflicts that lasted from 1989 to 2003 included forced child military recruitment, rape, and mass executions. However, Liberia has not yet held a trial for any crimes committed during the violent conflicts, despite calls from both domestic and foreign parties.

Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia and the chief mastermind of both civil wars, is presently serving a 50-year sentence in the United Kingdom for war crimes, however, for his involvement in the conflict in neighbouring Sierra Leone.

The path to establishing the first war crimes court has been marked by challenges and milestones, including past attempts at reconciliation.

In 2006, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf established a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to address the aftermath of the conflicts. Although the TRC identified individuals who should be prosecuted for war crimes in 2009, political controversy and a lack of action stalled progress.

Peruvian Prime Minister Alberto Otárola has declared a state of emergency in response to heavy rainfall affecting over 100 districts and 17 regions across the country. Prime Minister Otárola said that this decree is essential to support and coordinate efforts with local and regional authorities in mitigating the severe consequences of the ongoing weather events, reports local media El Comercio .

Declaration of health emergency due to dengue

Head of the Council of Ministers Alberto Otárola Peñaranda has announced the Executive's decision to declare a health emergency in 20 regions across the country in response to the alarming rise in dengue cases nationwide where 672 cases and two fatalities have been reported. Nationally, the number of dengue cases has increased to 24,981 in 2024 of which 28 have died, local media Correo Peru reported.

National Board of Justice

The National Board of Justice (JNJ) members are facing imminent removal from their positions as the Permanent Commission has approved the final report of the Subcommittee on Constitutional Accusations. The report recommends charging these magistrates and disqualifying them from holding public office for a decade, reports local media Gestion . Among those implicated are Imelda Tumialán, Aldo Vásquez, María Zavala, Inés Tello, Guillermo Thornberry, Antonio de la Haza, and José Ávila, who resigned following revelations of his connections with former Public Ministry advisor Jaime Villanueva.

UK-Peru partnership

Vice-Chancellor Ignacio Higueras Hare and UK Ambassador to Peru Gavin Cook presided over the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Chevening scholarship program. Held at the Torre Tagle Palace in Peru, Higueras said the program has been a fundamental element of cooperation between the two nations. He noted that 280 Peruvian scholars have completed their studies in the UK through Chevening, with 33 of them later joining the Republic's Diplomatic Service. Higueras praised the program for its direct positive impact on Peru's economic and social development, local media El Peruano reported.

Educative platforms

Peruvian entrepreneurs have created online platforms designed for schoolchildren and pre-university students. Backed by the Ministry of Production's "Produce, with your to school" campaign, the six educational projects offer children and adolescents an innovative learning experience in foreign languages, technology, financial education, and strengthening their emotional development, reports local media El Peruano .

The event which happened in New York makes the Tunisian citizen the first Arab judge to have worked with the prestigious court since the beginning of its establishment in 2002.

Dr Mahfouz will play his role in the position for 9 years from 2024 to 2033, according to local news outlet Babnet .

The ICC is an international judicial body that was formed by a multilateral treaty called the Rome Statute. The ICC, which is independent of the United Nations, is based in The Hague, the Netherlands.

The ICC's 18 judges are elected by the Assembly of States Parties for their qualifications, impartiality and integrity, and serve 9-year, non-renewable terms.

They ensure fair trials and render decisions, but also issue arrest warrants or summonses to appear, authorize victims to participate, order witness protection measures, and more. They also elect, from among themselves, the ICC President and two vice presidents who head the Court.