Toumba held a meeting with the Association of Traditional Chiefs of Niger, reaffirming the role of customary authorities in national cohesion and governance . The discussion focused on social stability, community leadership, and the continued involvement of traditional institutions in addressing local challenges, underlining their influence in mediating between the state and grassroots communities.

Bakary Sangaré receives five newly appointed ambassadors in Niamey

Niger’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bakary Sangaré, formally received the credentials of five new ambassadors posted to Niamey. The diplomatic ceremony marked a step in strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirmed Niger’s engagement with international partners amid ongoing political and security transitions.

General Abdourahamane Tiani meets Chinese ambassador Lyu Guijun to discuss Niger–China relations

General Abdourahamane Tiani received China’s ambassador to Niger, Lyu Guijun, in talks focused on the state of Niger–China relations. The meeting addressed ongoing cooperation, development partnerships, and areas of mutual interest, reflecting Niger’s efforts to maintain strategic international ties following recent geopolitical shifts.

Keys handed over for 100 social housing units allocated to Nigerien civil servants

Authorities in Niger officially handed over the keys to 100 newly constructed social housing units designated for civil servants. The initiative forms part of efforts to improve living conditions , support public sector workers, and address housing shortages, particularly in urban centres.

Agronomists present a national agricultural development plan to the prime minister

A group of agronomists presented a comprehensive agricultural development plan to the Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, outlining proposals aimed at improving productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods. The plan reflects the government’s focus on agriculture as a strategic sector for economic resilience and long-term development.

One institution continues to define the benchmark. The rest of the market is divided into a solid but crowded second tier and a fragmented middle struggling to convert capability into equity.

Across almost every brand attribute measured, including good customer service and the most trustworthy banks, BCA remains the clear reference point for Indonesian consumers. It leads decisively in customer service (55.3%), trustworthiness (48.6%), digital banking services (49%), value for money (37.2%), financial strength (37.8%), ease of use (34.6%), and customer care (27.5%)

The Brand Image Index based on responses from more than 1,000 Indonesian internet users nationwide reinforces this dominance. BCA scores 100, far ahead of its nearest competitor, Bank Mandiri, at 59.

Beyond performance, BCA also records the lowest “don’t know” rate in the market in terms of visibility, signalling near-universal familiarity.

The second tier

Bank Mandiri, BRI, and BNI form a recognisable second tier. All three benefit from high awareness, strong associations with financial stability, and credible trust scores. In attributes such as customer service, digital banking, and reputation, they consistently outperform mid-tier and lower-tier peers.

These banks, however, cluster tightly across multiple measures. For example, customer service scores range between 31 and 38%, and digital banking perceptions sit within a similarly compressed band. Consumers see them as reliable and familiar, but not clearly distinct from one another.

Here’s the issue. In a market where loyalty is primarily functional rather than emotional, being “good enough” is no longer a moat. Without sharper positioning, these banks risk competing on convenience alone.

Mid-tier banks

BTN, BSI, and CIMB Niaga sit squarely in the middle of the Brand Image Index. Their scores suggest competence across most attributes, but little leadership in any one area.

Consumers neither reject nor champion these brands. They recognise them, use them, and often struggle to articulate what makes them different.

This “functional but forgettable” position is risky. Without a clear narrative or standout experience, these banks face stagnation. Growth will require more than improving operational metrics.

Build Up Nepal has won the 2026 Zayed Sustainability Prize in the Climate Action category, earning international recognition for its low-carbon, earthquake-resilient eco-bricks. The organisation has helped build thousands of affordable homes, cut construction emissions significantly, and create green jobs through locally run enterprises. The award highlights Nepal’s growing role in delivering practical, community-led climate solutions at a time of increasing global focus on resilience and sustainable development.

Nepali Congress grapples with internal conflict ahead of a special convention

The Nepali Congress is facing intensified internal conflict as preparations move forward for a special convention. Disagreements within the party have exposed deep divisions over leadership direction, organisational control and the future of the party, raising questions about cohesion at a critical political moment.

Expulsion of general secretaries deepens divisions and risks party fragmentation

The expulsion of key general secretaries has significantly deepened rifts within the Nepali Congress, accelerating fears of a formal split. The move has heightened tensions between rival factions and sharpened debate over disciplinary authority and internal democracy within one of Nepal’s most influential political parties.

Leadership reform proposals and election strategy fuel internal debate

Proposals aimed at reforming party leadership structures and redefining election strategy have become central to internal discussions. Supporters argue the changes are necessary to restore public trust and electoral competitiveness, while critics warn they could further destabilise the party if not carefully managed.

Negotiations continue in an effort to preserve party unity

Negotiations are ongoing among senior party figures to prevent a full-scale split and preserve unity within the Nepali Congress. Talks are focused on reconciliation mechanisms, power-sharing arrangements and compromise solutions that could allow the party to move forward ahead of future electoral contests.

The partnership was formally presented as part of Chile’s National Lithium Strategy, which seeks to increase state participation in the sector while maintaining cooperation with private capital. Nova Andino Litio will oversee the full lithium value chain in the Atacama, from exploration and extraction to production and commercialisation, with operations projected to extend until 2060, according to Codelco.

The launch ceremony brought together key figures from both companies, including Codelco chairman Máximo Pacheco and SQM chief executive Ricardo Ramos, alongside President Gabriel Boric, signalling strong political backing for the initiative. The presence of the head of state underlined the strategic importance the government assigns to lithium as a pillar of Chile’s future economic model.

Speaking at the event, Pacheco framed the alliance as a historic convergence between the country’s largest state-owned and private firms, arguing that it could reposition Chile at the top of global lithium production. Ramos, in turn, expressed confidence that combining the capabilities of both companies would generate greater value than operating separately, pointing to the scale and ambition of the project.

Nova Andino Litio is expected to reach an annual output of around 300,000 tonnes of lithium, a significant increase compared with national production levels in recent years. In a global context marked by rising demand for critical minerals and intensifying competition among producer countries, Chile’s move reflects a broader effort across the Global South to balance sovereignty, investment and long-term control over strategic natural resources.

“I currently only get about two hours of sleep a night, up to four hours on the longest days, so I think it's bad for my skin,” she said. “But if we could balance childcare and nursing care according to our wishes, and still be able to work, enjoy leisure time, and relax, that would be the ideal situation.”

Takaichi insisted that creating a system that supports both men and women in juggling work, childcare, and eldercare is essential, adding: “I believe it is necessary to realise a way of working that allows both men and women to balance work with childcare or elderly care, according to their wishes.”

Her comments came after staff and opposition lawmakers described the 3 am meeting as “crazy” and symptomatic of poor leadership that pressures employees into unreasonable hours.

Akira Koike, Secretary-General of the Japanese Communist Party, said the incident underlined the need for wider reforms. “To create a society where both men and women can share housework, childcare, and elderly care, ensuring that workers have free time—time they can use as they wish—is an important issue for Japanese society.”

Takaichi admitted last week that the early-morning gathering was held to prepare for a budget committee session scheduled less than six hours later.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has directed all regional and district governors to begin submitting monthly public reports on their work. The order is intended to improve transparency and keep local officials accountable to the public. This move reflects the administration’s ongoing governance reforms aimed at decentralisation and civic engagement, ensuring that regional leaders stay in closer touch with citizens’ needs and development goals.

New governors appointed across multiple districts and cities

A series of new gubernatorial appointments have been announced in several regions and cities across Uzbekistan. The reshuffle is designed to strengthen leadership and improve socio-economic management at the local level. The government says the changes are part of a broader push to modernise governance structures, empower regional administrations, and align local strategies with national development targets.

New appointments to presidential advisory team

President Mirziyoyev has also made changes within his advisory circle. Ravshan Gulyamov and Aziz Magrupov have been appointed to new roles, focusing on regional and economic development. Their inclusion in the presidential advisory team underscores the government’s intent to streamline policy implementation and attract investment while ensuring sustainable regional growth.

Another governor dismissed in Navoi region

Leadership changes continue in the Navoi region, where a previous governor was dismissed amid ongoing administrative restructuring. Alisher Rashidov has been appointed as the new regional governor. The government has not disclosed the reasons behind the dismissal, but the decision fits into the wider pattern of leadership accountability initiatives rolled out by Mirziyoyev’s administration in recent months.

Deputy Azizova calls for life imprisonment for pedophiles

A powerful debate on child protection laws is gaining traction in Uzbekistan following remarks by Deputy Azizova, who declared that “pedophiles must be punished with life imprisonment.” Her comments have received significant public support, with citizens and advocacy groups urging tougher legal measures against sexual violence involving minors. The proposal aligns with Uzbekistan’s ongoing legal reforms aimed at strengthening justice and social protection systems.

Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga has criticised Makebi Zulu’s growing political influence, arguing that it stems from his perceived loyalty to the late former President Edgar Lungu. Mulenga’s remarks suggest that Zulu’s prominence is less about policy and more about symbolic continuity, positioning himself as the guardian of Lungu’s legacy. This dynamic of sympathy politics is reshaping Zambia’s political arena, especially as the country heads toward the 2026 elections.

PF base readjusts as Mudolo loses grip, Mundubile rises

Within the Patriotic Front (PF), the power base appears to be realigning . Key members have shifted their support from Willah Joseph Mudolo to Brian Mundubile, signalling a significant recalibration in the party’s leadership hierarchy. The shift could reshape the PF’s internal strategy as it prepares to challenge the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) in the upcoming elections.

Makebi Zulu’s presidential bid shocks nation, sparks public debate

Makebi Zulu’s formal announcement that he will run for the 2026 Republican Presidency has set off a wave of political discussion across Zambia. The move surprised both allies and critics, sparking scrutiny of his motives and ambitions. His declaration is seen as a bold challenge to the PF’s establishment, raising questions about unity within the opposition and the viability of his campaign.

PF’s 2026 puzzle: Can the party unite behind one presidential candidate?

The Patriotic Front continues to struggle with internal divisions as multiple figures, including Makebi Zulu, compete for the party’s presidential ticket. Party insiders warn that unless the PF consolidates behind a single candidate, its chances of reclaiming power from President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration may diminish. The leadership contest is intensifying debates about the party’s ideological direction and long-term cohesion.

Makebi Zulu: From body politics to second independence

In a rallying call that has captured national attention, Makebi Zulu has urged Zambians to pursue what he calls the country’s “ Second Independence .” He emphasises economic empowerment, self-reliance, and greater democratic accountability. Zulu’s message appears aimed at connecting with younger voters and those disillusioned with traditional political structures, casting his campaign as both revolutionary and reformist.

Intense clashes broke out between the Syrian army and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Deir Ezzor, marking one of the most significant flare-ups in recent months. Both sides exchanged fire using light and medium weapons following alleged infiltration attempts by SDF units. The fighting underscores persistent friction between government forces and Kurdish-led groups in the oil-rich eastern region.

Syrian security dismantles Latakia cells linked to Assad associates

The Syrian Interior Ministry announced that it dismantled several cells in Latakia purportedly tied to associates of the former Assad regime. Authorities allege that these groups were engaged in destabilising activities aimed at undermining national security . The crackdown suggests that internal challenges from loyalist remnants continue to test the authority of the country’s new leadership.

Arab and Gulf nations cautiously engage with Syria’s new leadership

Arab and Gulf nations are showing cautious openness toward President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s administration after years of diplomatic estrangement. This measured re-engagement signals a potential thaw in regional relations, with nations like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar exploring avenues for political and economic cooperation while maintaining careful distance amid lingering concerns about Syria’s stability and governance.

Syria accelerates destruction of Assad-era chemical weapons

In a move symbolising a break from its controversial past, Syria announced plans to fast-track the destruction of chemical weapons remnants dating back to the Assad era. The initiative, overseen by the current government, is intended to rebuild international trust and demonstrate a commitment to compliance with global disarmament norms. Analysts view this as both a domestic reform step and a diplomatic signal to Western powers.

Germany seeks deportation deal with Syria amid refugee policy shifts

Germany is negotiating a deportation agreement with Damascus to return Syrian refugees lacking valid residence permits. Meanwhile, the Syrian government has offered free flights home for returnees under specific conditions. The proposal has drawn concern from human rights groups, who warn of potential violations and the risks facing those sent back to unstable regions.

Drawing on data from Wikipedia and The World in Maps, the study highlights nations where women presently hold the highest executive offices, whether as presidents or prime ministers and traces their rise to power between 2018 and 2025.

Across continents, the map reveals both firsts and milestones. In Africa, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, as reported by Global South World, became Namibia’s first female president in March 2025, joining Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, who has been in power since 2021.

In Europe, Mette Frederiksen continues to serve as Denmark’s prime minister, while Kaja Kallas of Estonia and Ingrida Šimonytė of Lithuania represent a new generation of women shaping European politics. In the Americas, Mia Mottley of Barbados and Xiomara Castro of Honduras remain powerful voices advocating for inclusive governance and social reform.

Asia saw a major development today, October 21, when Japan appointed its first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, breaking a long-standing political tradition

Her historic appointment highlights a broader pattern: women are finally rising in regions where top political roles were long seen as unattainable. However, analysts note that symbolic representation must evolve into substantive power, as Takaichi’s cabinet still includes only two women.

Despite these achievements, the map makes one fact clear: female leadership remains unevenly distributed, often concentrated in smaller or progressive nations. It is a reminder that parity has not yet been achieved, while visibility has impro ved .

Structural barriers ranging from gendered party systems to cultural norms continue to restrict women’s pathways to power.

According to the Council on Foreign Relations’ Women’s Power Index , as of August 2025, only 29 women serve as heads of state or government worldwide, underscoring that women still make up less than 15% of all global leaders.

Similarly, UN Women’s 2025 report shows that just 23% of cabinet positions globally are held by women.

In a dramatic political turn, Sher Bahadur Deuba has stepped down as president of the Nepali Congress, following mounting pressure from a series of Gen Z-led protests demanding generational leadership change. The protests, fueled by frustrations over corruption, unemployment, and political stagnation, have transformed into a national conversation about accountability and renewal. Deuba’s resignation marks a pivotal moment for Nepal’s oldest political party, which now faces the task of rejuvenating its leadership structure. Analysts believe this shift could signal a broader realignment in Nepalese politics as younger voices push for reform and inclusivity in governance.

Ten petitions challenge Sushila Karki’s premiership and House dissolution

The Supreme Court of Nepal is currently reviewing ten separate petitions challenging both Prime Minister Sushila Karki’s authority and the recent dissolution of the House of Representatives. Petitioners argue that the move violates the constitutional separation of powers and undermines democratic principles. The controversy has reignited debates over Nepal’s fragile parliamentary structure and the balance between executive and judicial authority. Legal experts warn that the case’s outcome could set a lasting precedent for the interpretation of constitutional powers. The hearings have attracted widespread public attention, with civic groups calling for transparency and adherence to democratic norms.

Madhesh Chief Minister Singh resigns amid political turmoil

Madhesh Province Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Singh has officially resigned , citing internal party divisions and mounting political instability within the provincial government. His departure comes amid broader unrest across provincial administrations grappling with incomplete devolution and unresolved constitutional ambiguities. Political observers say Singh’s resignation underscores the ongoing challenges of implementing federalism in Nepal, particularly in regions where ethnic and political identities intersect. The resignation has triggered uncertainty about the next provincial leadership, raising questions about governance continuity and accountability in Madhesh.

Unfinished federalism continues to strain Madhesh Province

The political developments in Madhesh have once again spotlighted Nepal’s unfinished federal experiment, which remains fraught with administrative and constitutional complications. Local leaders complain that the federal structure, while promising greater autonomy, has yet to deliver tangible benefits due to unclear division of powers and financial constraints. Many citizens express frustration over inadequate local services and bureaucratic inefficiency. Scholars argue that until fiscal federalism and administrative autonomy are properly enforced, provinces like Madhesh will continue to experience governance paralysis and civic disillusionment.

Khadka appointed acting president of Nepali Congress after leadership shake-up

Following Sher Bahadur Deuba’s resignation, Purna Bahadur Khadka has been appointed acting president of the Nepali Congress. The decision, endorsed by the party’s central committee, is seen as an interim measure aimed at stabilising internal dynamics. Khadka has pledged to rebuild trust among members and restore public confidence in the party’s reform agenda. His leadership will be tested as the Congress navigates multiple crises, including legal battles over the dissolved parliament and growing competition from newer political movements energised by youth activism and anti-establishment sentiment.

Mongolia’s Prime Minister Gombojavyn Zandanshatar has issued a strong appeal to government officials, urging them to concentrate on their core duties and work toward preventing the nation’s growing weather-related hardships. The warning comes as the country faces another harsh seasonal cycle, with the potential of a dzud , the deadly winter phenomenon that kills livestock and devastates rural livelihoods, looming large. The Prime Minister emphasised that energy and resources should be directed toward supporting communities at risk, rather than getting caught up in political disputes.

Mayor Nyambaatar calls on enterprises to comply with Mongolia’s water law

In Ulaanbaatar, Mayor Nyambaatar has called on public and private enterprises to fulfil their obligations under the Law on Water of Mongolia, warning that non-compliance will no longer be tolerated. His statement highlights growing environmental concerns over unsustainable water use, especially as urban expansion continues to strain resources. The mayor pointed out that many industries, particularly in construction and manufacturing, have failed to implement water conservation and recycling systems. This negligence, he noted, directly affects the city’s ability to maintain clean and accessible water for residents. Nyambaatar’s administration plans to conduct audits and impose penalties on enterprises that ignore their environmental responsibilities.

Judicial council elects new judges in third session

Mongolia’s Judicial General Council held its third session, during which several new judges were elected, a move aimed at strengthening the independence and efficiency of the nation’s legal system. The appointments are part of an ongoing effort to modernise the judiciary and restore public trust following concerns over corruption and political interference in the courts. The new judges are expected to bring renewed focus on transparency and procedural fairness. Legal experts have welcomed the move, noting that fresh appointments can help balance workloads and enhance case management, particularly in regional courts.

President Khurelsukh to pay a state visit to India

In a significant diplomatic step, President U. Khurelsukh is set to embark on a state visit to the Republic of India, further strengthening bilateral relations between the two Asian democracies. The visit aims to deepen cooperation in trade, renewable energy, mining, and regional security. Mongolia and India have long shared strong cultural and historical ties, rooted in Buddhism and mutual respect. Recent years have seen growing collaboration under the “Strategic Partnership” framework, with India supporting Mongolia in key areas such as digital infrastructure, energy transition, and education.

The Generation 2000 (G2K), the young professional arm of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), has issued a strong rebuke against Opposition Leader Mark Golding over his handling of constitutional reform matters. The group accused Golding of demonstrating poor leadership and a lack of maturity in engaging with the bipartisan process meant to guide Jamaica’s transition to a republic. G2K’s statement described his stance as obstructive and politically motivated, arguing that his approach undermines the cooperative spirit necessary for such a critical national transition. The organisation emphasised that constitutional reform should be treated as a matter of national interest rather than partisan politics. It urged the Opposition to return to the table with a genuine intent to collaborate on reshaping Jamaica’s governance framework for future generations.

PNP’s Gordon calls for urgent action to address Sandy Gully

Dennis Gordon, a representative of the People’s National Party (PNP), has called for swift government intervention to address the worsening conditions in the Sandy Gully area. He raised concerns about the dilapidated drainage systems that have led to flooding, infrastructure collapse, and health hazards for residents. Gordon warned that continued neglect could result in further environmental degradation and displacement of vulnerable communities. He stressed the need for a dedicated rehabilitation plan to restore the gully and prevent future disasters. His plea was framed not only as an environmental issue but also as a matter of social justice, urging the government to allocate the necessary resources to protect lives and livelihoods in the area.

Jamaica becoming a republic remains a pipe dream

In a widely circulated Letter of the Day, a commentator argued that Jamaica’s dream of becoming a republic remains distant, despite ongoing political discourse. The letter criticised both major political parties for lacking the political will and cohesive vision required to execute the transition from a constitutional monarchy to a republic. It suggested that while there is widespread public support for the idea, political leaders have failed to translate rhetoric into action. The author lamented the slow pace of reform, attributing it to entrenched political divisions, bureaucratic inertia, and public apathy. The letter concluded that unless Jamaica’s leadership can rise above partisan considerations and commit to decisive action, the dream of full sovereignty and a republican system will remain unrealised for years to come.

'Arrogant and immature’, G2K criticises Golding

In a follow-up to its earlier remarks, G2K intensified its criticism of Mark Golding, calling his behaviour in the constitutional reform discussions “arrogant and immature.” The group contended that Golding’s refusal to engage with the Constitutional Reform Committee fully reflects a disregard for the collective will of the Jamaican people. G2K further accused him of prioritising political optics over meaningful dialogue, suggesting that his attitude threatens to stall progress on critical constitutional amendments, including Jamaica’s move toward full republican status. The statement called for all political leaders to demonstrate maturity and patriotism, reminding them that constitutional reform is about the people’s empowerment and the modernisation of Jamaica’s democratic institutions, not personal political gain.

Social media posts shared by GenZ213 depict Algeria’s long-standing political and military figures, signalling open defiance against the ruling elite.

According to political analyst Oualid Kebir, demonstrations are expected to take place across Algeria’s provinces after Friday prayers, with youth voicing frustration over corruption, unemployment exceeding 30%, and economic stagnation. The group’s slogan, “Freedom for Algeria and Freedom for Palestine,” reflects both domestic grievances and regional solidarity.

Observers note parallels with Madagascar, where youth-led demonstrations forced President Andry Rajoelina to dissolve his government in September 2025 after days of violent protests over power and water shortages. Analysts warn that Algeria could see a similar escalation if authorities respond with repression rather than reform.

The 2019 Hirak protests had brought millions into the streets before being stifled by the pandemic and government crackdowns. GenZ213 insists that movement “did not die” but merely “entered dormancy” and now returns with fresh momentum.

The coming protests are being closely watched by international observers, given Algeria’s role as a key gas supplier to Europe and an influential actor in the Arab world .

The outcome could determine whether North Africa’s largest nation witnesses a new democratic opening or another cycle of confrontation between youth and a military-backed regime.

According to security officials quoted in the reports , several gunrunners with links to Nigerian “kingpins” have been arrested while moving weapons across the Nigeria–Niger border. Investigators claim the scale of these transactions is “alarming” and allege that some politicians used state funds, under the guise of peace negotiations, to bankroll militant networks.

The allegations come amid a broader security push by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, formed after their withdrawal from ECOWAS in early 2024. The bloc, isolated after successive coups, has intensified intelligence sharing and military cooperation to combat jihadist groups, Boko Haram factions, and armed bandits. Thousands of civilians have been killed and millions displaced in the Sahel in recent years, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and International Crisis Group.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, acknowledged last month that individuals within the country are financing terrorism, but said legal and international complications had delayed naming them.

“Some of them have funds coming from outside; we cannot do anything from within,” Musa told Nigerian media.

Nigeria faces one of the world’s fastest-growing internal displacement crises, with banditry in the northwest driving mass kidnappings, raids on villages, and attacks on security forces.

The AES investigations, if substantiated, risk exposing political complicity at the highest levels in Abuja. For international partners, including the EU and the U.S., the revelations highlight the need for tighter financial oversight, cross-border intelligence cooperation, and accountability mechanisms to prevent state-linked actors from fueling violence in the Sahel and beyond.

Globally, as of 2025, there are about 101.07 males for every 100 females in the world population. That slight male majority is driven largely by higher birth ratios favouring boys, though over time that tilt tends to fade as women live longer on average.

However, beyond childhood, the balance shifts in many countries toward more women, especially in older age brackets.

Countries such as Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Bahrain appear in deep blue places where men heavily outnumber women. According to projections, Qatar’s male-to-female ratio is approximately 246 men per 100 women, the highest in the world currently.

Much of this is due to labour migration. That is, Gulf states import huge numbers of male workers for industries such as construction, oil, and infrastructure. These migrant populations skew the sex balance dramatically.

On the flip side, much of Europe, parts of Latin America, and Russia lean strongly towards red (more women than men). In Russia, for example, decades of elevated male mortality (from lifestyle, health, or conflicts) have dramatically thinned the male ranks.

Eastern European nations also show pronounced female majorities, a legacy of war losses and health – and a reminder that sex ratios are shaped by far more than birth preferences.

Then there are the more subtle shades: nations whose ratios are near parity — light pink or light blue. Ghana, for instance, has approximately 99.7 men for every 100 women in 2025, essentially balanced.

India and China, with their massive populations (and well-documented gender biases), still register as having more men than women on aggregate.

This demographic snapshot also arrives amid renewed global debate about gender and leadership.

At the 2025 UN General Assembly, voices are growing louder for the appointment of a female U.N. Secretary-General , breaking an 80-year run of male leadership.

Elsewhere, new reports warn that artificial intelligence may disproportionately threaten women’s jobs (28% at risk vs 21% for men) unless action is taken to address the gender digital divide.

In June 2008, then–Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi removed fuel subsidies just months after losing Barisan Nasional’s two-thirds parliamentary majority. Inflation surged from 2.3% in January to 8.5% by July, and despite wage hikes and cash aid, public and party dissatisfaction mounted. Criticism, including from predecessor Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, contributed to Abdullah’s early exit, with Datuk Seri Najib Razak succeeding him. Najib avoided similar moves, instead adopting a managed float system (2014–2018) during a period of low global oil prices. Now, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is preparing to address the RON95 blanket fuel subsidy.

GRS to maintain ties with Pakatan, rules out talks with other parties

Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) will continue its exclusive partnership with Pakatan Harapan for the upcoming 17th state election, focusing now on seat distribution talks. Secretary-general Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said no cooperation with other parties was discussed during the Aug 10 meeting, chaired by GRS leader Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and attended by coalition partners. Masidi stressed that local parties should lead the alliance, which he credited with maintaining Sabah’s political stability and supporting development efforts.

Sabah must shed its “master-servant” mindset

At the PGRS Congress in Kota Kinabalu, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor rallied supporters with the phrase “The Master is here. The Master is not there,” recalling a past federal leader’s dismissal of Sabah’s push for a “Borneo Bloc” with Sarawak to strengthen East Malaysia’s voice. That leader had warned Hajiji and his colleagues against pursuing the idea, implying Kuala Lumpur held ultimate authority. Hajiji’s later support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after the 2022 election was seen as a form of political payback. The episode highlights Sabah’s smaller political clout compared to Sarawak, which holds more parliamentary seats and stronger state control.

LFL urges Akmal to debate flag issue instead of bullying store owner

Lawyers for Liberty (LFL) slammed Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh’s plan to visit a Penang store to “teach” its owner how to display the Jalur Gemilang, calling it bullying, vigilantism, and racially divisive. LFL director Zaid Malek said the store owner had already apologised, yet Akmal ignored this, risking criminal offences such as intimidation and inciting public mischief. Urging government action, Zaid invited Akmal to debate the flag issue instead of harassing citizens. The plan, part of a “Maruah Tanah Airku” rally, follows a viral video showing the flag being carried upside down.

Malaysia must stop saying one thing and doing another

In his first year as UK foreign secretary, David Lammy made 47 overseas trips, including to Malaysia for the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on 12 July. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, opening the event, stressed ASEAN’s “centrality” in shaping the Asia-Pacific’s regional architecture. Lammy also met Anwar, with both hailing upgraded UK-Malaysia ties as a “strategic partnership” based on shared values. However, this rhetoric contrasts with Malaysia’s political reality, where Anwar’s government is pushing legislation—such as amendments to the Printing Presses and Publications Act—that critics say will further curb freedom of expression on sensitive issues of religion, race, and royalty.