The Malian leader described the attacks as part of a broader effort to destabilise the country, alleging support from both internal and external actors.

“These attacks are not isolated acts,” he stated. “They are part of a broader destabilisation plan designed and carried out by terrorist armed groups, with internal and external sponsors providing them with intelligence and logistical support.”

He declared that the country’s security situation is “under control”, stating that the military response dealt a “strong blow” to armed groups and also called on fellow Malians to trust in the security forces "now more than ever" as they are "engaged in a complex fight against terrorism".

While the three juntas share similar rhetoric and have formed new regional groupings, they have struggled to translate alignment into seamless military cooperation or shared strategy against insurgent violence that moves easily across borders.

The lack of joint planning, intelligence-sharing and operational trust has left each government fighting largely on its own, undermining the idea that a Russia-backed Sahel front can deliver region-wide security gains.

Russia’s own approach is also drawing blowback. Reports of heavy-handed tactics and abuses linked to Moscow-aligned forces have fuelled resentment in some areas and, in some cases, strengthened armed groups’ recruitment narratives.

That reputational cost, combined with limited improvements on the ground, is making Russia’s offer less attractive than it looked when anti-Western sentiment was at its peak.

At the same time, Moscow no longer has the Sahel to itself. China, Türkiye and the UAE are expanding business, military and diplomatic footprints in the region, giving junta leaders more options and reducing Russia’s leverage.

It is crucial to note, however, that the vote excluded major opposition parties, including the National League for Democracy, led by detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Min Aung Hlaing is expected to step down as commander-in-chief to comply with constitutional rules barring a president from holding both roles. General Ye Win Oo, a former military intelligence chief and long-time associate of the junta leader, has been promoted and is widely expected to take over the top military post.

Under the constitution, 25% of seats are reserved for the armed forces, while the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party won a large majority of the remaining seats in elections held in December and January.

Tom Andrews, the United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, has urged the international community to reject the election results and any political arrangements that follow, describing the process as an attempt by the military to legitimise its rule.

The political shift comes as Myanmar remains in conflict. According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project and the UN Refugee Agency, nearly 93,300 people have been killed and 3.7 million displaced since the military seized power in February 2021. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners says more than 30,600 people have been arrested since the coup, with about 22,500 still in detention.

An opposition shadow parliament formed by ousted lawmakers also held a parallel session this week, maintaining it is the country’s only legitimate legislature.

“Understand this, we are going to war with France. We were not at war before, but now we are going to war,” he is quoted by French news, Le Figaro .

The declaration follows a decree on general mobilisation adopted by Niger’s Council of Ministers at the end of December. Military officials have said the move is aimed at confronting what they allege are French efforts to destabilise the country.

General Tchiani has repeatedly accused France, along with leaders in Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, of supporting Islamist armed groups and backing attacks against Niger’s government . He claimed the countries were behind a January 2026 attack on Niamey Airport.

Meanwhile, France has strongly denied the allegations. Colonel Guillaume Vernet, spokesperson for the French Armed Forces General Staff, said there was “no question of French involvement” in Niger and described the accusations as “information warfare.”

Relations between Niger and France have deteriorated sharply since a military coup in July 2023 ousted the elected government. The junta demanded the withdrawal of French troops and the French ambassador, accusing Paris of neocolonial interference. Military cooperation was suspended, marking a dramatic shift from years of close security ties.

Niger, which gained independence from France in 1960, has since pivoted away from Paris as anti-French sentiment grows across parts of the Sahel region.

Authorities said the airline has faced serious financial and operational difficulties for several years, which have weakened its ability to function and damaged its financial position.

To address the crisis, the Burkinabe state has launched a restructuring process aimed at restoring the company’s long-term viability.

As part of that effort, on September 24, 2024, the government acquired all shares held by a private investor, 111 shares representing 1% of Air Burkina’s capital. That transaction made the state the airline’s sole shareholder.

The decree adopted this week is intended to legally formalise the acquisition and regularise the state’s full ownership in line with Burkina Faso’s laws governing public capital companies.

The government described the decision as a key step in reviving the national carrier and strengthening Burkina Faso’s air transport sector.

Gunfire and explosions were reported shortly before midnight near the airport, and two security sources described the incident as a “terrorist attack.” Calm was restored by Thursday morning.

The airport area was cordoned off and patrolled, although schools and businesses in Niamey remained open.

Tiani named French President Emmanuel Macron, Benin President Patrice Talon, and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara as sponsors of the alleged attack. 

He made the statement after visiting an air base and warned that Niger would respond. “We have heard them bark, they should be ready to hear us roar,” he said. Niger state television reported that one of the attackers killed was a French national, but this claim was not backed by evidence.

Security officials told Reuters that an internal alert about a possible attack led to increased security measures around the airport prior to the incident. 

The officials also confirmed that a uranium stockpile, estimated at around 1,000 metric tons, was not affected by the attack. The uranium, stored at the airport since late last year, was previously moved from the Somair mine in Arlit after the Nigerien government took control of the site from the French company Orano.

Two commercial aircraft were damaged during the attack. ASKY Airlines reported minor damage to two of its planes. Air Côte d’Ivoire confirmed that its Airbus A319 sustained damage to the fuselage and right wing. “Its fuselage and right wing” were affected, the airline said, noting that the aircraft could be grounded for an extended period. No injuries were reported.

Tiani also expressed appreciation to Russian troops stationed at the base, thanking them for “defending their sector.” Niger, like neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, continues to experience violence linked to jihadist groups affiliated with al Qaeda and Islamic State.

Earlier this month, Burkina Faso reported that it had foiled a coup attempt funded by Côte d’Ivoire to destabilise its government and assassinate military leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

Former leader Lt Col Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was arrested after being extradited from Togo, where he had fled to after allegedly masterminding the failed coup plot.

When it happened

The attempt was set to happen on the night of Saturday, 3 January 2026. On that day, some social media users started posting about a possible threat to the government, which led some people to protest in the streets. A pro-government web TV station broke the news on 5 January, and the official confirmation came on Tuesday, 7 January.

Who is accused

The government has blamed Lt Col Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba for leading the plan. Damiba previously led Burkina Faso after taking power in January 2022. He was removed by Captain Traoré in September 2022 and has been living in Togo since then.

Minister Sana said Damiba was responsible for putting the plan together. He allegedly brought in both military and civilian supporters and received money from outside the country to carry out the plan. The minister claimed that 70 million CFA francs (£92,000) came from Côte d’Ivoire to help fund the operation.

What was planned

According to reports, the group aimed to kill Captain Traoré either directly or by using explosives at his home. After that, they allegedly wanted to:

Minister Sana said, "Our intelligence services intercepted this operation in the final hours. They had planned to assassinate the head of state and then strike other key institutions, including civilian personalities". He also added, "after this action, there was to follow an operation to put the drone base out of service, and a ground military intervention by external forces".

Current status

Several people have been arrested, and investigations are still ongoing. Sana told the public that the threat had been contained and warned them "not to be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes". He said the government will release videos of confessions from those involved and that they will face legal consequences.

The Guinea-Bissau military has already installed a transitional leader, Gen Horta N’Tam, who is expected to govern for one year. The coup unfolded on Wednesday, one day before authorities were due to announce provisional results from presidential and parliamentary elections. The junta has suspended the entire electoral process and blocked the release of the vote tally.

Military leaders say they acted to prevent an alleged plot by unnamed politicians “supported by a well-known drug baron” to destabilise the country. They imposed a nighttime curfew, banned public protests, and prohibited any actions they said could disturb “peace and stability.”

Guinea-Bissau, positioned between Senegal and Guinea, has long struggled with political turbulence and has earned a reputation as a major drug-trafficking hub. The military has played a dominant role in national politics since independence from Portugal in 1974.

Tensions remained high in the capital, Bissau, on Thursday, with most businesses closed and soldiers patrolling the streets. Shortly after Gen N’Tam was sworn in as transitional president, the military reopened land, air, and sea borders, which had been sealed at the start of the coup.

Some civil society groups have accused Embaló of orchestrating a “simulated coup” with the military to prevent the publication of election results he feared he might lose. Dias made similar allegations, calling the takeover an “organised coup.” He told AFP he considers himself the president-elect, claiming to have secured around 52% of the vote. Embaló has not responded to the accusations.

Guinea-Bissau has experienced at least nine coups or attempted coups over the past five decades, making it one of West Africa’s most politically unstable states.

What they said

“Mariam was forcibly taken from the market in front of everyone,” one local source said. Timbuktu region mayor Yehia Tandina told the Associated Press: “The same men brought her back to Independence Square in Tonka and executed her in front of a crowd.” State television described Cissé as “a young woman who simply wanted to promote her community through her TikTok posts and encourage the Malian army in its missions to protect people and their property.”

But one figure stood out: among the heads of state was a non-leader.

At the far end of the line stood U Hau Khan Sum, the permanent secretary of Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was there in place of his country’s leader, barred from attending.

The absence traces back to Myanmar’s turbulent recent history.

In 2021, the military seized power from the elected government, detaining Aung San Suu Kyi and installing a junta under Min Aung Hlaing. The coup sparked a civil war that has killed tens of thousands, with the military now controlling only about a fifth of the country.

Although the junta handed authority to an interim civilian government in July and announced plans for elections in December, observers warn the move could simply legitimise military rule.

ASEAN’s response has been firm. In 2021, the bloc — including Hlaing himself — adopted a five-point peace plan to end the violence and foster dialogue. Four years later, progress has been negligible.

Citing the junta’s failure to implement the plan, ASEAN has continued to bar Myanmar’s military leaders from attending high-level meetings. The country was also stripped of its turn to host the 2026 summits, a responsibility now passed to the Philippines .

Some member states have floated the idea of reintegrating Myanmar’s leadership, arguing that engagement might yield results. Yet for now, as the world ’s most influential leaders gather for the 47th ASEAN Summit, Myanmar remains on the sidelines.

Five years later, Keita was re-elected to continue his mandate in serving the people of Mali. But in the midst of a global coronavirus pandemic, sluggish reforms, a collapsing economy, deteriorating public services and schools, and a widely held belief that his government was corrupt, Keita was overthrown on August 18, 2020—the first of a wave of military coup d'états to hit the Sahel over the next three years.

Assimi Goita, Mali’s army general and president, masterminded the two coup plots that hit the nation in 9 months. In the August 2020 coup, Goita was installed as vice president of a transition government, and civilian Bah Ndaw as president, promising to hold elections in 18 months.

But soon after, a struggle for dominance broke out between the two sides as each sought to increase its influence.

Ndaw removed military leaders who had played a crucial role in the August coup when he reorganised the cabinet on May 24, 2021. He was detained by the military later that day, and a few hours later, Goita extended military rule and proclaimed himself president.

A study, which took place in Mali in July 2021, almost a year after the first military coup and only weeks after the second coup led by then Colonel Goita, found that when asked directly, 74.0% of respondents claimed to support the military regime, and only 24.7% of respondents claimed to trust the foreign armed forces.

However, using the List Experiment (LE), a different technique used to measure true opinions on sensitive topics — things they might not want to admit directly — the survey found that the support for the military regime was only 63.2%, meaning support was over-reported by 10.8 percentage points, and trust in foreign armed forces was 36%, significantly underreported by 11.6 percentage points.

People claimed support, given the politically tense and non-democratic environment of Mali, expressing support for the ruling military regime was the socially desirable and safest response, given the strong anti-foreign sentiment prevalent at the time and the fear of repression associated with criticising the government.

According to the researchers, “The opposite direction of misreporting of these two political attitudes is consistent with the military regime’s strong opposition to the international coalition led by France in Mali at the time of our survey.”

A year after Goita had overthrown Ndaw to proclaim himself leader of the West African nation, the last of the French troops stationed in Mali to fight against Islamic insurgency left the country, completing a withdrawal that ended the nine-year Operation Serval—carried out in response to an attack in the northern part of the country by the ethnic-Tuareg separatist movement that had partnered with an al-Qaeda affiliate.

In a constitutional referendum held in June 2023, 97% of voters favoured changes which granted the president the power to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet members. Out of 8.4 million registered voters, only 39.4% took part in the referendum. 

Opponents of the new constitution claimed that it would reduce the likelihood of democratic reforms and that the referendum had been tainted.

Goïta disbanded all political parties in May 2025 and indefinitely postponed the 2024 elections. The National Transitional Council granted Goita a five-year term on July 3, 2025, which can be renewed "as many times as necessary" and without an election.

“In response to the Malagasy people ’s demand for the restoration of democracy, the rebuilding of trust in state institutions, and a government based on justice and accountability, we hereby issue this decree suspending the 2010 Constitution in its conflicting provisions,” he said.

The decree, labelled 2025-001, also suspends several major institutions, including the Senate, the Constitutional Court, the electoral commission, and the High Council for the Defence of Democracy. Only the National Assembly will remain functional during the transition, Viory reports.

The military announced the creation of a transitional government, a restructured judiciary, and a two-year period leading to a national referendum and new elections .

This intervention follows weeks of intense protests over economic hardship, corruption, and allegations of electoral manipulation.

According to United Nations estimates, at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in recent clashes, although government officials dispute the figures. Colonel Randrianirina said the military's move was necessary to prevent further instability, claiming that external emigration and internal unrest had reached a breaking point. “The plundering of national resources has led to the deterioration of the economy and the mass exodus of youth,” he said.

Demonstrators, many of them young, have accused authorities of ignoring widespread poverty and rising costs of living.

Official figures showed 92% turnout with 89% approval, though opposition groups and civil society organisations disputed the numbers, citing empty polling stations and alleged fraud.

The new constitution extends presidential terms from five to seven years, permits one re-election, creates a Senate with presidential appointees, and establishes a special court to try senior officials. It also allows independent candidates to contest for the first time, but crucially removes earlier restrictions barring junta members from running.

Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who seized power in 2021 by ousting then-president Alpha Condé, has not declared whether he will run. Analysts note, however, that the timing and content of the constitutional changes suggest he may seek to remain in power.

The country holds the world ’s largest bauxite reserves and vast iron ore deposits at Simandou, making political stability vital for global supply chains. Multinational mining companies, including Rio Tinto and China’s Chinalco, have major stakes in the sector.

The outcome will also test the credibility of West Africa’s response to military takeovers. ECOWAS has pressured juntas in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to restore civilian rule, and its stance on Guinea’s vote may set a precedent.

For Guineans, hopes for stability are tempered by scepticism after years of authoritarian rule and unfulfilled promises. A credible, transparent election could mark a turning point; a disputed one risks cementing military power under a democratic facade.

Post-coup paths in Africa: recent returns to civilian rule and the juntas that remain

Several African states have transitioned, unevenly, between military and civilian rule in recent years. Where some transitions yielded elections and a nominal return to civilian government, others remain firmly under junta control. The pattern matters for regional stability, investment and international policy toward the continent.

Key recent returns to civilian rule

States still effectively under military rule

Recent years show no single path from coup to stable democracy. For a successful democracy to operate smoothly, it requires credible, inclusive elections, institutional checks on armed actors and sustained regional and international support. Where those elements are absent, elections or constitutional changes often become mechanisms for legitimising extended military influence rather than restoring accountable civilian governance .

Türkiye and Niger signed a Military Financial Cooperation Agreement on Thursday, July 24, during the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025 in Istanbul. The agreement was signed by Turkish Deputy National Defence Minister Alpaslan Kavaklioglu and Niger’s National Defence Ministry General Secretary Sani Kache. The six-day defence fair, which began on Tuesday, is being held at the Istanbul Fair Centre, Ataturk Airport, Wow Hotel, and Atakoy Marina. IDEF 2025 is organised by KFA Fairs with support from Türkiye’s Defence Industries Secretariat (SSB) and the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation.

Nigeria collaborates with Sahel militaries on regional security

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, stated on Thursday that the country is working with the armed forces of Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali to address transnational security threats in West Africa. He emphasised that regional interdependence necessitates cross-border military cooperation. He made this statement during the 2nd Distinguished Personality Lecture organised by the TETFUND Centre of Excellence in Security Management at the University of Ibadan. He noted that while the three nations may be politically distant, military collaboration continues, and Nigeria remains committed to supporting them to promote regional stability.

U.S. suspends visa services in Niger

The United States has suspended all routine immigrant and non-immigrant visa services at its embassy in Niamey, Niger, until further notice, according to a State Department spokesperson and an internal cable dated July 25. No reason was given in the cable, but the spokesperson stated the pause would remain in effect until Washington addresses "concerns with the Government of Niger". The cable also directed consular officers in other locations to apply heightened scrutiny to non-immigrant visa applications from Nigerien nationals. It cited overstay rates of 8% for visitor visas and 27% for student and exchange visas.

HRW urges Niger junta to release ex-president Bazoum after 2-year detention 

Human Rights Watch has called for the immediate release of former Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum, detained since a military coup in 2023 led by General Abdourahamane Tiani. Bazoum and his wife have been held since the overthrow of his government. The rights group condemned the detention as politically motivated and said it undermines the junta's claims to democratic legitimacy. A regional ECOWAS court previously ruled Bazoum’s detention arbitrary and ordered his release. Despite this, a Nigerien court lifted Bazoum’s presidential immunity to allow prosecution for alleged offences committed during his presidency. Human Rights Watch criticised the judicial process, stating it failed to meet international fair trial standards.

AES ministers agree to fast-track launch of confederal investment bank

Finance and economy ministers of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) have agreed to expedite the operationalisation of the Confederal Bank for Investment and Development (BCID-AES). Meeting in Niamey, the ministers committed to releasing the required capital within the set timeframe. The BCID-AES, established by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, is intended to support long-term economic development and financial sovereignty across the bloc.

Zerbo defended the reform as necessary to reclaim "sovereign control on the electoral process and at the same time limit foreign influences."

In place of the independent electoral commission, the country's interior ministry will take over all forms of future elections.

The electoral commission’s removal marks yet another pivot in the junta’s way of governing.

Having staged coups in January 2022 and again in September of the same year, the military was originally meant to hand over power by July 2024. However, a new charter now lets Capt. Ibrahim Traoré remain in office until July 2029.

This power grab pattern is not unique to Burkina Faso. Across West Africa, military regimes in nations like Mali and Niger have tightened control , often citing civilian governments’ failure to address escalating cost-of-living troubles, as well as Islamist insurgencies .

With the interior ministry taking over elections, can future results ever claim democratic legitimacy?

Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Burkina Faso has experienced at least nine military overthrows . These coups began in 1966 and most recently in 2022, which leaves a legacy of continued instability.

Since 2022, Burkina Faso has been under military rule following two successive coups driven by frustration over the government’s failure to curb escalating Islamist insurgencies.

The first coup, in January 2022, saw Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Damiba take power from civilian ruler Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, only to be overthrown eight months later by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who accused Damiba of similar failures.

Traoré, then just 34 years old, suspended the constitution and dissolved the legislature, positioning himself as a revolutionary figure in the image of Thomas Sankara, while promising to restore security and sovereignty.

Despite promises of national revival, Burkina Faso’s humanitarian and security crises have worsened. Over 60% of the country is under threat from armed Islamist groups, more than 2 million people are displaced, and civil liberties are shrinking under military censorship.

While many citizens initially welcomed military intervention as a solution to instability, there is growing concern that the regime is replicating a familiar cycle where coups are justified by insecurity, but ultimately lead to greater authoritarianism and democratic erosion.

The agency will oversee all political elections and referendums, manage the biometric voter registry, and organise a special security force to safeguard the electoral process.

The decision has drawn criticism from legal experts and opposition figures who warn it may undermine electoral transparency. Mohamed Traoré, former head of Guinea’s bar association, wrote in a Facebook post that “a public administration that is politicised and partisan... raises serious doubts about the sincerity of upcoming elections.” He added that placing the election body under the interior ministry, led by a junta-appointed official, further erodes trust.

Guinea’s junta seized power in a 2021 coup, pledging to return the country to constitutional rule by the end of 2024. That deadline has since passed.

The referendum in September will decide on a new constitution, potentially clearing the way for junta members to stand in future elections despite an earlier transition charter explicitly prohibiting them from doing so.

Although junta leader Doumbouya has vowed not to run for office, several government officials have publicly endorsed his candidacy in recent months. Observers fear the new constitution could remove current restrictions on military or transitional leaders contesting elections.

Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah said in May that the government would "do everything" to hold presidential and legislative elections by December 2025. Doumbouya has also declared 2025 a "crucial electoral year to complete the return to constitutional order."

International observers and rights groups remain sceptical, while the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has pressed for a swift return to civilian rule in Guinea, has yet to comment on the new electoral body.

As the referendum approaches, pressure is mounting on the junta to deliver a credible and inclusive democratic process.

Yet, this bold stance has come at a cost, with Traoré repeatedly claiming to be the target of sinister plots and assassination attempts aimed at crushing his vision for a sovereign Burkina Faso.

Below are four documented instances where Traoré or his administration have alleged conspiracies against him, casting him as a revolutionary under siege.

September 2023: The "destabilisation" plot

In September 2023, barely a year after seizing power, Traoré’s government announced it had thwarted a coup attempt to destabilise his regime. The junta claimed that plotters, including military officers and civilians, sought to overthrow Traoré and reverse his anti-Western policies, such as expelling French forces. In a statement read out on state television, it said, "A proven coup attempt was foiled on September 26, 2023, by Burkina Faso's intelligence and security services. "At present, officers and other alleged participants in this destabilisation attempt have been arrested and others are being actively sought,"

April 2025: The Ivory Coast conspiracy

On April 21, 2025, Traoré’s junta revealed it had foiled a “major plot” to overthrow him, allegedly orchestrated by current and former soldiers based in Ivory Coast. The conspirators reportedly planned to attack the presidential palace and sow chaos, as detailed by the BBC. The announcement triggered massive rallies in Ouagadougou on April 30, with supporters chanting Traoré’s name across West Africa and the diaspora. Ivory Coast denied any involvement, but the claim heightened regional tensions and reinforced Traoré’s image as a target of foreign-backed schemes.

April 2025: The “119 conspirators” plot

Days before the Ivory Coast plot announcement, Traoré claimed to have survived a sprawling conspiracy involving 119 plotters, allegedly linked to former junta leader Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Damiba. According to SF Bay View on April 12, 2025, this plot was part of a broader claim that Traoré had survived “over 20 assassination attempts.” The junta accused the conspirators of seeking to restore Western-aligned governance, though no independent verification of the plot’s scale has emerged.

June 2025: Conspiracy to betray the AES

On June 9, 2025, President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso warned that foreign powers are pressuring one member of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to betray the others, aiming to fracture the regional bloc formed by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Speaking at a national flag-raising ceremony in Ouagadougou, where the AES anthem was sung for the first time, Traoré denounced imperialist "manoeuvres" targeting the alliance’s unity and sovereignty. Traoré reaffirmed the alliance’s mission to ensure security, harness regional wealth, and improve living conditions for local populations. Calling for unity and resilience, he emphasised that the Sahel is no longer a zone of influence but a region determined to chart its own path.

These allegations come against a backdrop of unrelenting violence in Burkina Faso, ranked the world’s most terrorism-affected nation by the Global Terrorism Index 2025 , with 6,389 deaths in 2024 alone.

Traoré’s defiance of Western powers, including his 2023 expulsion of French troops and pivot toward Russia, has made him a hero to many but a lightning rod for controversy.

The vehicle was developed by Guedesign Automotive, a Niamey-based manufacturer. According to a report by Defence Blog , the Tamgak Wangari is designed to meet the specific operational needs of the Sahel region, including extreme heat, soft sand, and rugged terrain.

Guedesign Automotive describes the vehicle as offering “high mobility, structural resilience, and ease of maintenance in austere environments with minimal infrastructure ”. 

The company added that the Tamgak Wangari was built entirely in Niger by local engineers and technicians. 

“After 5 months of sweat, sleepless nights, plans, bolts and black coffee... he's finally here. Introducing the first-ever 100% Nigerian military buggy, designed, assembled and refined in our own workshops, by a team that is as passionate as they are stubborn,” the company stated in a Facebook post .

The name “Tamgak” refers to the Tamgak mountains in the Aïr region, which are known for their strength and endurance. “Wangari” symbolises struggle and national pride in local innovation.

Guedesign Automotive further stated that the vehicle was developed not only as a tactical platform but also as a representation of Niger’s sovereignty and industrial self-reliance. 

Niger is currently facing security challenges alongside Mali and Burkina Faso. The three countries have also experienced strained diplomatic ties with Western nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

In January, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) formally withdrew from ECOWAS after refusing to meet conditions for the restoration of civilian rule.

In March, the military government led by General Abdourahamane Tiani designated Hausa as the national language , replacing French.

The pact, endorsed by representatives from radio, television, print, and online outlets, as well as the Burkinabe Media Observatory (OBM) and the CSC, outlines mutual commitments between the press, the state, and media regulators, Le Faso reports.

The document is structured around three main components. The first commits media outlets to publicise the activities of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), promote civic engagement, and contribute to national cohesion and intercommunal understanding.

The second outlines key demands from media actors toward the government , including tax reforms for media companies, full enforcement of the 2015 Right to Information law, and the establishment of a permanent consultation framework between the press and state institutions.

The third section designates the CSC and OBM as responsible for monitoring and facilitating implementation. A six-month review of the pact’s application has been proposed by CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo, reported by Lefaso.net, a local news site.

After the four-hour amendment, adoption, and signing process, CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo congratulated the journalists for their commitment. "We have just taken a historic, highly civic-minded step, which confirms the level of commitment of the entire national press to defending the general interest and safeguarding national unity," he said.

He also remarked that this is not an “attempt to muzzle the press.”

Director General for Radiodiffusion Télévision du Burkina (RTB), Atéridar Galip Somé noted that the state broadcaster has already aligned its editorial approach with national security priorities and described the pact as formalising an existing orientation.

The agreement follows a May 3 workshop organised by the CSC, which recommended a unified media framework to guide coverage during the security crisis.

What they said

Opposition leaders have since condemned the move. "No matter how hard they try to make you invisible, your value doesn't depend on their recognition," Nouhoum Togo, president of the Union for the Safeguarding of the Republic (USR) party, posted on social media.

“I, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, elected President of the Republic, pledge before God and our ancestors and the people of Gabon to preserve all my strength for their well-being,” Oligui declared during the ceremony.

The event was attended by several regional leaders, including Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Gambia’s Adama Barrow, Djibouti’s Ismail Omar Guelleh, Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, DR Congo’s Felix Tshisekedi, and  Rwanda ’s Paul Kagame.

In the crowd, citizens expressed optimism and tempered expectations. Laetitia Kelly, a 35-year-old beautician, told the AFP, “I came here today to see what I voted for on April 12. What I expect now is that the president continues the good work he started since August 30.”

Ralph Ondounda, a 40-year-old electromechanical engineer, emphasised the needs of the country’s younger generation, “For the next seven years, we expect the president-elect to respect his commitments. Young people need to be empowered, they need jobs and social services. But really, this is about all Gabonese people.”

"General Langley adopts a posture that deliberately denies the new sovereignist dynamic of Burkina Faso," the Ministry declared, condemning what it described as "serious inaccuracies" made without evidence and in a context unrelated to Burkina Faso.

The government criticised the U.S. general’s statement for lacking a factual basis and for casting doubt on Burkina Faso’s efforts toward transparent governance , particularly in the management of natural resources.

The Ministry emphasised that these comments, delivered before such a high-level body as the U.S. Senate, were not only unjustified but also damaging to the image and credibility of the Burkinabè state.

"Such light, unfounded, and eminently political remarks are all the more worrying because they were made... by a senior military official," the Ministry added.

In a formal rebuttal, the Ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment under President Ibrahim Traoré to fight corruption and ensure that all revenues from the mining sector are channelled transparently into the national budget.

"All revenues from mining are now returned to the state coffers and are subject to rigorous and transparent management," the statement noted.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry stressed that the Traoré administration has taken decisive steps to clean up public governance and promote inclusive growth, countering any claims to the contrary.

The vote marks the official transition from military to civilian rule after Oligui seized power in a coup in August 2023, toppling longtime president Ali Bongo Ondimba. His win solidified his position as head of state under Gabon’s newly proclaimed Fifth Republic.

“Tomorrow is a working day. We must now turn the page on the presidential election,” Oligui said. “Our country is still developing. I invite you to resume your professional activities in this Fifth Republic that we call with all our wishes.”

While the landslide result was expected, critics have raised concerns about transparency and fairness in the electoral process. Nevertheless, Oligui’s administration has pledged to implement reforms and foster greater stability in the oil-rich Central African nation.

At a polling station in Libreville, voter Jeanne d’Arc Akomuom, 28, told the AFP that she was voting for real change.

“On this April 12th, I came to vote for what is precisely a change. What I expect from the new president... is to promote employment for the youth and try to solve the water and electricity problems that prevail in our city, Libreville,” she said.

Despite Gabon’s considerable oil wealth, the country of 2.3 million people  continues to struggle with high unemployment, frequent power outages, water shortages, and a crippling infrastructure gap. Official data shows that only 2,000 of Gabon’s 10,000 kilometers (6,213 miles) of roads are currently usable.

At another polling station, 30-year-old voter Aurele Ossatanga Mouila emphasised the urgency of tackling youth unemployment.

“The new president must really put emphasis on the unemployment issue. He should think about the youth... he really has to find jobs for young Gabonese. It's a really important thing,” Mouila said.

Supporters of Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president since the August 2023 coup, appeared confident in his victory.

“It was important for me to come vote. My vote counts to elect a new president, a new Gabon, which is our choice — President Brice Oligui Nguema,” said Eugénie Tchitembo Onanga, 68. “This is cash victory, the choice of God,” he added.

Nguema, a former commander of the Republican Guard, has led the transitional government since removing the Bongo dynasty, which had ruled Gabon for over 55 years.

“The national language is Hausa,” parts of the document said, while French and English will still be used as working languages.

Hausa is the most widely spoken language in Niger. Many people in the country, especially in places like Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua, speak and understand it.

Niger has a population of about 26 million, and most of them speak Hausa daily compared to the about three million people who speak French.

The decision comes after a national meeting was held in February. That meeting also gave the head of the military government , General Abdourahamane Tiani, the power to stay in charge for the next five years.

This move is part of a series of actions by the current leaders since they took power in July 2023.

Back then, the army removed elected president Mohamed Bazoum. Since then, Niger has cut ties with France, asked French soldiers to leave, and changed the names of streets and buildings that were linked to France.

Niger is now following a similar path as Mali and Burkina Faso. These neighbouring countries have also removed French influence from their systems and left the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, which promotes the French language and culture.

The government also announced that nine other local languages, such as Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, will be officially recognised as languages spoken by the people of Niger.

One local teacher, Amina Garba, said, “For the first time, many of us feel like our voices truly matter. Our language is finally being respected.”

As war rages on between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the dead are becoming just another part of the shattered landscape.

Civilians trapped in besieged neighborhoods speak of unbearable scenes.

“As we all know, these cemeteries in Tarb al-Shuhada are illegal due to the siege imposed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). We were unable to reach the legitimate cemeteries because of the ongoing clashes and the RSF blocking our access," said Al-Samani Mohammed Al-Samani, a volunteer gravedigger.

In a statement, Nguema confirmed that the Ministry of National Defense had approved his request to enter politics, making him eligible to run for office.

"I am happy today to inform you that the Ministry of National Defense has favourably responded to my availability request. This means that since February 27, 2025, I am eligible to engage in politics and even occupy the supreme position," he told the AFP.

Despite speculation about forming a political party, Nguema announced he would run as an independent candidate. Instead, he introduced a political platform called " The Builders' Movement," inviting various groups, including political parties, unions, youth organisations, and intellectuals, to support his vision for the country's future.

"There is no reason to create a party. Time does not allow us to do so. But like the others, I will go as an independent," he stated. "Within this platform, I invite associations, political parties, unions, youth, intellectual elites, and all those who have supported me since the beginning of the transition to join us so that together we can build this country and move forward."

Nguema’s candidacy marks a significant moment in Gabon’s transition back to civilian rule. His leadership over the past two years has been marked by efforts to stabilise the nation after the coup .

The April election will be Gabon’s first since the military ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023, citing election irregularities and governance failures.

Mr Bongo had ruled for 14 years, following in the footsteps of his father, Omar Bongo, who led the country for 41 years. The coup ended the Bongo family’s 55-year hold on power.

On March 3, Mr Nguema told his supporters in the capital, Libreville, that he had thought carefully before deciding to contest.

According to local reports , the president also attributed his decision to calls for his contest by many people.

He also described himself as a "builder" and called on citizens to support him in shaping Gabon’s future.

His decision comes after a recent change in the country’s constitution, which now allows him to stand in the election.

Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, addressing the crowd, described the withdrawal as a step toward Burkina Faso's liberation from external control. “ECOWAS is one of the strings of our enslavement that was cut cleanly on 28 January 2024,” Ouédraogo declared. “We know that there are other strings left, but our three heads of state still hold the axe firmly. In other words, all the strings will be cut without a second thought.”

Calling for continued vigilance, the Prime Minister emphasised the struggle for freedom. “This is a message of remobilisation,” he urged. “We must remain vigilant because the imperialists and their puppet institutions will never give up. Freedom is not granted; it is fought for. It comes at the price of sweat and blood.”

Demonstrators echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, expressing unwavering support for the decision. Asseta Salogo, one of the protesters, celebrated the move as long overdue. “It’s a very good decision, a good decision that they’ve made,” Salogo told the AFP. “We’ve been waiting for this decision for a long time. Right now, we’re saying: ECOWAS to bat, forever. We can't go back. Either it’s our bodies they’re going to trample on so that we can come back, or it’s corpses they’re going to use to create their damned ECOWAS.”

Another protester, Faraga Bazié, reinforced the irreversible nature of the decision, remarking that, “under no circumstances are we going to look in the rear-view mirror again,” he said. “This doesn't represent the people of the Sahel, Burkina Faso, Mali, or Niger. We take responsibility for ourselves, and history has brought us together. There were just some people who refused to allow this union to see the light of day through a puppet institution, as the Prime Minister has just said.”

The amendments include 59 new rules and give the junta more power to draft people into the military. Previously, workers in government departments were exempt from being conscripted, but the new rules now allow the military to draft them as well.

Renowned lawyer, U Kyee Myint, told local news outlet BNI that the public had hoped for changes to reduce the number of people eligible for conscription, but instead, the amendments make the law even stricter. He explained that many had expected the junta to create exemptions that would protect some groups from being forced to join the army.

Instead, the changes have disappointed the public and made the situation worse, according to local reports .

The amendments also require schools to include lessons about the conscription law in their curriculum. This has attracted sharp criticism.

Critics have described the move as an attempt by the junta to promote military dominance.

The new rules also target displaced people, including young people from the Arakan (Rakhine) State who have fled to cities like Yangon. The military can now draft these displaced youths into the army at any time. Critics argue this shows the junta’s intention to spread militarism across the country and maintain control.

Since the conscription law was enforced, around 40,000 people have been drafted into the military. Many of them were forced to join. Myanmar’s army has been struggling with manpower due to significant battlefield losses, including the loss of 180 military bases and two major regional headquarters.

Under the current law, around 14 million people in Myanmar are eligible for conscription. They can be forced to serve in the army for up to two years, which can be extended to five years in emergencies. The ninth wave of conscription is now underway.

Millimono emphasised the importance of judicial independence in the process: We hope magistrates will focus on the law and not condemn Aliou for having an opinion."

Bah’s lawyer, Pépé Antoine Lamah, challenged the charges, describing them as baseless: "The flimsiness of the allegations allowed us to dismantle them using valid arguments, reason, and the law." Lamah also pointed out inconsistencies, noting that the public prosecutor initially included the junta leader’s name in the proceedings but later removed it, suggesting the head of state does not identify with the case.

General Mamady Doumbouya, who led the 2021 coup that ousted President Alpha Condé, pledged under international pressure to transition to civilian rule by 2024. However, this has yet to occur. In his New Year address, Doumbouya announced plans to set a date for a constitutional referendum in early 2025.

The announcement comes as Burkina Faso struggles with a growing revolution.

Tambela had served as interim prime minister since 2022 after Traoré took power in a coup that removed Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.

Burkina Faso has been battling Islamist violence for nearly a decade. Armed groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State have killed thousands and displaced over 2 million people .

Critics, including rights groups, have accused the junta of failing to address the issue.

The military-led transitional government recently extended its rule by five years, delaying promised elections and drawing criticism from international and regional groups.

The junta also cut ties with France and withdrew from the West African bloc ECOWAS.

Burkina Faso’s move also comes after similar events in Mali, where the military recently fired its prime minister after public disagreements.

This constitutional referendum represents a critical step toward the junta's pledge to transition to civilian rule, ending 55 years of the Bongo family's dominance. Gabon's 860,000 registered voters are presented with two options: a green ballot to vote "yes" for the new constitution or a red one to vote "no."

Authorities have mobilised extensive public outreach via television, radio, and social media, urging citizens to participate in this historic vote.

In order to ensure access, the government declared a two-day public holiday leading up to the vote and implemented measures allowing voters to switch polling locations to accommodate travel and weather concerns during the rainy season.

Key provisions of the new constitution

The proposed constitution outlines a two-term, seven-year presidential tenure, eliminates the prime minister role, and bans dynastic transfers of power. It mandates that presidential candidates be exclusively Gabonese, requiring at least one parent born in Gabon and a Gabonese spouse.

According to the military leadership, this is part of its vision to bring stability and transparency to the oil-rich Central African nation.

The coup

This vote follows the August 2023 coup that unseated President Ali Bongo Ondimba shortly after he was declared the winner of an election widely denounced as fraudulent by opposition leaders and the army.

Bongo, who ruled for 14 years, had assumed office following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who held power for over four decades. Allegations of corruption, embezzlement , and misgovernance plagued the Bongo administration, fueling public discontent and support for the junta's intervention.

General Brice Oligui Nguema , the head of the ruling military junta, has pledged to transition back to civilian rule within two years, with presidential elections slated for August 2025.

While Oligui has openly expressed ambitions to contest that election, the new constitutional framework aims to ensure a fairer, more transparent political system.

In 2023, the TNLA launched "Operation 1027," named after its starting date. The operation has reportedly succeeded in pushing the junta out of approximately 50,000 square kilometres of territory, weakening its hold in parts of Shan State.

The TNLA is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, a coalition of ethnic armed groups that have been at the forefront of Myanmar’s armed resistance against the military since the 2021 coup.

Their efforts are aimed at securing greater autonomy and rights for Myanmar’s ethnic minorities, contributing to the broader struggle against the junta's rule.

Myanmar authorities have arrested Nay Soe Maung, a former military officer and the son-in-law of ex-junta leader Than Shwe. This arrest arises from Facebook posts that the junta deems as threats to "peace and stability." Since the coup in 2021, the military has ramped up censorship and surveillance of online speech, striving to quash dissent. While the specific posts leading to his arrest were not detailed, Nay Soe Maung's recent comments regarding the death of a member from the now-disbanded National League for Democracy (NLD) have caught the junta's attention. The military regime has communicated its intention to persist in cracking down on individuals propagating dissent online. Myanmar shares the undesirable rank with China for the worst internet freedom worldwide, underscoring the ongoing suppression of free expression in the country.

Myanmar police confiscate 238,000 stimulant tablets

Myanmar police have intensified their narcotics operations, seizing 238,000 stimulant tablets and 220 grams of heroin in Shan State on October 24, 2024. The drugs, valued at around 122.3 million kyats (approximately $58,238), were confiscated during a vehicle interception that was acted upon based on an intelligence tip-off. One suspect has been arrested and charged under narcotics laws. Just a day later, on October 25, law enforcement agencies also seized an additional 3.98 million stimulant tablets in the Yangon region, indicating a significant scale of drug trafficking that continues to plague Myanmar.

Human rights groups call on Thailand to rescue trafficking victims in Myanmar

Human rights advocacy groups are calling on Thailand to intervene and rescue over 100 alleged victims of human trafficking trapped in Myanmar. Reports indicate that a "Chinese mafia syndicate" is coercing these individuals into forced labour, with victims hailing from nine countries, among them 19 from Laos. The located victims are situated in areas dominated by the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the Border Guard Force (BGF), adjacent to Mae Sot, Thailand. Advocates highlight Thailand's recent election to the UN Human Rights Council as a critical juncture for action against human trafficking along the Thai-Myanmar border. Victims are predominantly lured by fraudulent job offers, only to have their passports confiscated and to fall prey to debt bondage and abuse. Historically, the Thai government has maintained a non-interventionist approach regarding Myanmar's internal conflicts; however, it has committed to collaborating with neighbouring countries to address cross-border crime effectively.

Burmese Americans protest Chinese interference in Myanmar outside Washington embassy

Burmese Americans protested outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington on October 24, 2024, demanding that Beijing cease its backing of Myanmar's military regime. Protesters called for an end to the supply of military equipment, including fighter jets, and condemned China's extraction of natural gas from Arakan State, an act seen as benefiting the junta at the expense of local communities.

Indonesia rescues over 150 Rohingya refugees

After being trapped at sea for many days, Indonesia has rescued more than 150 Rohingya refugees, including women and children, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reported on October 25. A persecuted ethnic community in Myanmar, the Rohingya frequently travel by sea in perilous conditions to flee poverty in nations like Malaysia or Indonesia. The 152-refugee boat was anchored off Indonesia’s South Aceh district's coast. "UNHCR thanks the local authorities and communities for their humanitarian response and granting permission for the landing of around 152 refugees," said UNHCR’s Faisal Rahman. Indonesia has welcomed Rohingya migrants despite not being a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, although it encourages its neighbours to help with relocation efforts.

The UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), which is managed by the WFP, has been instrumental in reaching isolated communities. Between January and September 2024, UNHAS transported nearly 15,000 humanitarian workers and delivered over 500 tonnes of relief supplies.

“This unwavering support has been instrumental in enabling WFP to reach populations in need in Burkina Faso’s hard-to-reach locations,” said Sory Ouane, WFP’s Country Director and Representative in Burkina Faso.

Burkina Faso is facing a severe food crisis. Recent data from the "Cadre Harmonisé" Food Security analysis reveals that approximately 2.7 million people in the country required urgent food assistance during the June to August lean season.

Ouane acknowledged the progress made but highlighted the ongoing challenges. “With the continued support of our partners, including BHA, we can ensure that the most vulnerable – particularly displaced women and children – receive the assistance they need to survive and rebuild their lives,” he added.

The humanitarian efforts come at a crucial time for Burkina Faso, which has been grappling with political instability, security challenges, and humanitarian needs. Following military coups in 2022, the country has struggled to maintain control over vast regions. More than half of Burkina Faso is reportedly under the influence of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

Earlier this month, tens of thousands of Burkinabe were reported to have fled to northern Ivory Coast to escape violence from extremist attacks and military abuses.

The junta had initially promised to restore civilian rule by the end of 2024 but has since signalled a potential backtrack.

In a recent interview, Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah mentioned plans for a referendum on a new constitution by the end of the year, though no firm commitments were made.

General Doumbouya is currently in China attending a summit with other African leaders, and no official events were scheduled to mark the third anniversary of the coup that ousted civilian president Alpha Conde, according to AFP reports.

Eyewitnesses report that black smoke could be seen rising from the area near the Bamako airport.

The airport has since been closed temporarily as investigations continue to identify the culprits involved.

The Security and Protection Ministry has meanwhile, allayed fears, assuring that the situation is under control.

Mali has seen several jihadist activities over the years involving rebel groups including separatists linked to Al-Quada and the Islamic State group.

The country is currently under a junta led by Colonel Assimi Goita after it broke off from its European partners and France.

The three Alliance of Sahel States will be launching the new passport in the coming days as part of their withdrawal from the wider regional bloc Ecowas.

The three indicated plans to exit Ecowas after a series of coups between 2020 and 2023 earned them sanctions from Ecowas.

Goita who is also acting president of the Sahel alliance revealed plans to launch a joint service that will promote information between all three states.

"In the coming days, a new biometric passport of the [alliance] will be put into circulation with the aim of harmonising travel documents in our common area," Malian junta leader Col Assimi Goïta was quoted .

Prior to this, Burkina Faso had revealed plans to launch a new biometric passport without the Ecowas logo.

It remains unclear how the new passports will affect travelling within Ecowas states where nationals of these countries enjoyed visa-free movement using the Ecowas passport.

Meanwhile, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) said in July that the region risked disintegration and worsening insecurity after junta-led Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger made clear their intentions to leave the bloc by signing a confederation treaty.

"We still want him to honour his commitment, otherwise there will be another 28 September," warned Alsény Barry, a Conakry resident, referencing the potential for renewed unrest if the military does not follow through on holding elections.

Zézé Akoï Goepogui, another resident, called for patience and peace, acknowledging that change takes time. "You can't make things evolve in a state of disorder," he told AFP, urging Guineans to allow time for progress under military rule.

However, others, like Barry, expressed doubt over the junta's intentions. "Honestly, at the rate things are going, it seems they don't want to leave," he said, noting the lack of a clear roadmap for the transition. "They promised three years, but today marks the end of that timeline, and we don't have hope that elections will be held."

Since the coup, the junta has cracked down on dissent, with at least 47 people killed between September 2021 and April 2024, according to Amnesty International. 

Myanmar has a long history of military rule, civil conflict, and political instability. The Tatmadaw seized power in a coup in February 2021, overthrowing the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

In recent months, the Tatmadaw has suffered significant defeats at the hands of ethnic armed groups and the People's Defence Force (PDF), a coalition of pro-democracy fighters. These groups have launched coordinated attacks, capturing military posts and strategic locations, particularly in Shan State. The losses have been described as the most serious setbacks for the junta since the coup.

According to the Myanmar Country Director at the United States Institute of Peace, Jason Tower, "What's clear is that the Chinese side wants the Myanmar military to come to the table, it wants to bring the EAOs to the table to try to de-escalate, but the Myanmar military is refusing to do that. And so that actually plays to the hand of the EAOs that see that this military is historically at a weak point."

Reuters also adds that Myanmar's junta has admitted to losing communications with senior officers at a major military base near the Chinese border, following rebels' claims of capturing the key regional army headquarters.

On July 25, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) claimed to have taken over a major military base and continued fighting to secure full control. On Saturday, August 3, the group posted photographs of its troops at the military stronghold in Lashio.

“It has been found that senior officials were arrested,” military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said on Monday, August 5.

Jason also suggested that the fall of the key regional army headquarters near the Chinese border "could mark the beginning of the end" for the junta that has been in power since the 2021 coup.

Rohingya minority face danger as rebels attack Maungdaw town in western Myanmar. Residents report armed drones, injuries, and worsening conditions. Thousands of Rohingya are trapped in the town with limited access to food and healthcare. The ongoing conflict has forced some Rohingya to flee to refugee camps in Bangladesh, according to the Indian Express . Myanmar's military junta and armed rebel groups have been clashing in the area, leaving the local population in fear for their lives.

Floods force thousands to flee homes

Floods in northern Myanmar have displaced 10,000 people, with many trapped on their roofs as rivers burst their banks. Heavy rain in Kachin state has caused widespread flooding, forcing residents to seek shelter in monasteries and evacuation facilities. The flooding has also affected camps for people displaced by fighting between insurgent groups and junta forces. According to reports , there are concerns that the flood will reach other river-side communities in the region.

Surge in violence in Shan state

Myanmar's Shan state has seen a surge in violence over 10 days, resulting in casualties and displacement. Rebels attacked military battalions, and airstrikes have caused extensive damage. The fighting has affected the operations of humanitarian groups. The upsurge has also led to unrest in other regions, including Rakhine and Chin states, UCA News reports.

Japanese leader arrested for price inflation

Myanmar's military junta has arrested a Japanese supermarket executive for allegedly inflating prices of basic necessities in response to public discontent over rising prices. The arrest comes amid a deepening economic crisis, with the World Bank forecasting minimal economic growth and persistent inflation due to civil conflicts and supply chain disruptions. The country's economy remains smaller than before the military coup, with shortages of essential imported components and electricity supply disruptions posing significant challenges for businesses, Agenzia Nova reports

Central command chief sacked after shooting monk

Myanmar junta has replaced its Central Command chief Major General Kyi Khaing after the shooting of  78-year-old Buddhist monk Sayadaw Bhaddanta Munindabhivamsa. Kyi Khaing was replaced by Major General Aung Khaing Win. The regime's forces were responsible for the killing of the senior monk. Aung Khaing Win previously led the Triangle Region Command. His transfer comes amid fighting with armed groups in the Mandalay Region. Kyi Khaing is the first Central Command chief to be dismissed since the 2021 coup, local media The Irrawaddy reported.

The foreign minister referred to the media coverage of the shooting incident as a “media offensive,” reflecting the press's expectations.

According to him, the media has been used “purposefully to overshadow the concrete results being achieved” in Burkina Faso and the remaining two Sahel states Mali and Niger.

"We were surprised to see such violence in publications, whereas when we present the concrete results that have been achieved on the ground in terms of security, people don't share that as much," he said.

Burkina Faso's junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré extended its rule for another five years, breaking its initial promise to restore civilian rule by July 1.

Captain Traoré has been in power since September 2022 after he seized power from Paul Henri Damiba who had also served as interim president after he removed former President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré in a coup in January 2022.

Augustin Senghor, the president of the Senegalese Football Federation, has expressed disapproval of remarks made by Sadio Mané, a two-time recipient of the African Player of the Year award. Mané's comments critiqued the national team's strategy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Although he was out of play due to an injury and did not participate in the games against DR Congo and Mauritania, Mané's critique came during the international break. His statements led to considerable controversy, especially as Senegal experienced a challenging 1-1 tie with DR Congo but clinched a narrow 1-0 win against Mauritania, sustaining their course in the qualifying rounds, Pulse Kenya reports. "In my opinion, I think we need to review our system. We tried to play with more combinations, but overall, it didn't work as it should. So to be formidable, I think we must, as I said, review the system," said Mane

Lesbian activists being abused

Senegal lesbian activists are facing abuse and hostility in a nation where homosexuality is already criminalized. In an interview with 76 Crimes , a lesbian with the pseudonym, Awa shared that lesbians in Senegal are often exposed to corrective rape at an early age. "Very often, when a family suspects that a young girl is a lesbian, she is taken by force to a marabout who, far from giving her a religious education, will rape her. This does not happen all the time, or in all social contexts, but in rural Senegal it is far from rare," she said.

Call for media protection

Over 60 journalists have faced arrest, assault, or detention amid Senegal's political turmoil over the last three years. The watchdog organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF), which has been tracking these incidents, views the ascent of new leadership as a chance for journalistic healing and a revival of Senegal's role as a champion for information rights in the region. RSF's findings indicate that since March 2021, numerous journalists have suffered mistreatment, media polarization has intensified, social media disruptions have occurred, and media permits have been revoked, this period of instability overlapped with doubts about whether the former president, Macky Sall, would pursue an unconstitutional third term. Ultimately, Sall abandoned such intentions, and Bassirou Diomaye Faye was elected in March of the current year, reports CAJ News .

Visa-free policy boosts tourism

Senegal has introduced a visa exemption for travellers from 50 countries, encompassing Schengen area members, France, Spain, and Turkey, enhancing its attractiveness as a travel destination. The nation is celebrated for its abundant historical sites, varied terrains, and dynamic urban centres, catering to vacationers and increasingly drawing business and corporate visitors. With its advanced infrastructure, flourishing hospitality sector, and lively events industry, Senegal continues to strengthen its position as a favoured travel spot. In 2022, the country welcomed upwards of 1.38 million international visitors, a testament to its growing popularity, as reported by TTW .

Support for Burkina junta

Even though a protest took place in Dakar on 21 June, opposing the military regime in Ouagadougou, the Senegalese government continues to support its counterpart in Burkina Faso. Following an assault by Burkinabe officials on the organisers of the Dakar protest against Ouagadougou's junta, Senegalese diplomats promptly issued a response. The demonstration, orchestrated by the Senegalese Coalition of Human Rights Defenders (COSEDDH) and Amnesty International (AI), sought to call out the suppression of media and speech freedoms, along with the widespread detention of civil society figures, such as the esteemed attorney Guy Herve Kam, under Captain Ibrahim Traore's administration, reports APA News .

What they said

The 5-year extension will begin on July 2, 2024, according to the charter. "The elections marking the end of the transition may be organised before this deadline if the security situation so permits," the Reuters news agency quoted the charter as saying.

Despite public outcry and condemnation from international communities amid sanctions, some coup leaders insist that they are only trying to right the wrongs of failed elected African leaders.

Mali

In Mali , the military junta has been in power since 2020 and has suffered two coups. On August 18, 2020, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was ousted by the military, leading to the establishment of a transitional government in October. However, on May 24, 2021, the military detained both the president and the prime minister.

In June, Colonel Assimi Goïta was unveiled as the transitional president. Despite the promise by Goïta to maintain military rule for just two years, a national dialogue on Friday, May 10, resulted in the extension of the junta leadership for the next three years as well as pushing for Assimi Goïta to stand in the eventual election.

Guinea

September 5, 2021, similarly saw the overthrow of the elected president of Guinea, Alpha Condé, by military powers. Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who led the coup, subsequently became the country's president on October 1, 2021. The military government, however, promised to return things to civilian rule by the end of 2024. The military government is yet to show any signs of the country joining the democratic path again despite calls by opposition leaders to provide an election timetable for the 'November-December elections'.

Sudan

Just when the world was recovering from the military overthrows in Mali and Guinea, Sudan slammed the world with another coup d'état led by Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Hemedti on October 25, 2021. This was after the country's president Omar al-Bashir was deposed in 2019 to form a transitional civilian government. Since April 15, 2023, a power struggle between General Burhane and his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdane Daglo, has resulted in the deaths of at least 15,000 people. The conflict has displaced over 8.2 million individuals, creating the world's worst displacement crisis.

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso followed suit with two putsches in eight months. On January 24, 2022, President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré was ousted by the military, and Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was inaugurated as president in February. However, on September 30, Damiba was also dismissed by the military, and Captain Ibrahim Traoré was appointed as transitional president, with a presidential election scheduled for July 2024. It is, however, unclear if Captain Ibrahim Traoré is ready to end his regime.

Niger

Niger also experienced one of the most recent coups in Africa when, on July 26, 2023, the military declared they had overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum , with General Abdourahamane Tiani emerging as the new leader of the country. On August 10, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced plans to deploy a regional force to "restore constitutional order" while favouring diplomatic solutions. Meanwhile, the military proposed a transition period of up to three years before returning power to civilians.

Gabon

Gabon's president at the time, Ali Bongo, was ousted after his family had ruled the country for five decades. Coup leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema was sworn in just a week after the ousting and has been the country's head of state till today. Surprisingly, Gabon citizens stormed the streets of the country to jubilate over the military takeover.

Despite the reasons for the military takeover being to alleviate poverty and hardship, most of these nations still suffer from economic hardships .

He is facing charges of defamation and damaging of state reputation. The 41-year-old is also required to pay a fine of 3m CFA francs ($4,900; £3,900), BBC reports.

His lawyer Ibrahim Marhouf Sacko has announced plans to appeal the court’s verdict while maintaining he was “not surprised”.

In his defence in court earlier, Sissoko indicated that his book titled, “Propaganda, Agitation, and Harassment – government communication during the transition in Mali” was factual.

The book labels allegations of manipulation and lies to sway public opinion against the junta.

Human rights groups say Sissoko’s arrest is the latest case in a widespread crackdown on critics and political opponents of the military rulers.

The military junta banned media coverage of politics and suspended political party activities in April 2024, arresting persons who defied the orders.

Junta leader Assimi Goïta came to power in a coup in 2020 following anti-government protests.

Southern African Development Community (SADC) has condemned the attempted coup in the Democratic Republic of Congo and commended the DRC army for foiling the insurgency. They called for adherence to the Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and encouraged international support for the DRC people. According to the Chronicle , the leader of the attempted coup in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Sunday has been killed, and around 50 people, have been arrested, according to a spokesperson for the country's army. Gunfire erupted around 4 a.m. in the capital, Kinshasa. Armed men attacked the presidential residence in the city centre, stated spokesperson Sylvain Ekenge.

Coup leader a former captain

A former Congolese military captain led armed mutineers in a failed attempt to take over the president's residence and offices. Congolese forces are on high alert following the coup attempt. A former Congolese military captain, Malanga founded the opposition United Congolese Party (UCP) and spent a significant portion of his life in the US. Okay Africa reports that his family obtained political asylum when he was a child, and after many years in the DRC, he returned to the U.S. Before this, he ran for a parliamentary seat and was imprisoned by the administration of former President Joseph Kabila.

Biden-DR Congo flag controversy explained

A professor at Morehouse College unfurled a Democratic Republic of Congo flag behind President Joe Biden during his commencement address. The flag was a show of solidarity as security forces thwarted a coup attempt in the DRC. The United Nations reported a record high of 6.9 million internally displaced people in the DRC in October 2023 due to escalated violence. USA Today also added that Biden's address at the historically Black men's college was also partially overshadowed by pro-Palestinian protesters holding a rally organised under the banner of "Say No to Genocide Joe Speaking at Morehouse" about a mile away.

Americans identified as part of coup plotters

Two US citizens have been arrested for leading a failed coup to overthrow the government of Congo. The coup, led by opposition leader Christian Malanga, resulted in at least three deaths and dozens of arrests. The Independent adds that the US has vowed to cooperate in the investigation and the country's ambassador to Congo has expressed concern about the involvement of US citizens. The attackers targeted the country’s presidential palace and the residence of politician Vital Kamerhe.

Drones to fight rebel attacks

The Democratic Republic of Congo has received three new CH-4 Rainbow drones from China to use in the fight against rebels in the east of the country. This is part of a larger effort to enhance the capabilities of the Congolese military. Other African countries will also import Chinese military drones for defence. According to Military Africa , the affordability of Chinese drones, coupled with the less stringent conditions for their purchase, makes them an appealing choice for countries looking to enhance their defence capabilities.

The ministers agreed on a text establishing the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a plan that was initially disclosed in February .

"The objective was to finalise the draft text relating to the institutionalization and operationalization of the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)," stated Niger Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare.

Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop, following a meeting with the head of the Nigerien junta, General Abdourahamane Tiani, declared, "We can consider very clearly, today, that the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has been born."

The heads of state from the three countries are set to formally adopt the text at an upcoming summit, although the exact date is yet to be specified, according to reports by Punch Nigeria .

The three military-ruled West African nations announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in a joint statement on January 28. This decision followed sanctions from the regional bloc aimed at pressuring their military leaders to revert to democratic governance.

The three states have also ended their ties with former colonial ruler France . This move followed a series of events beginning with Mali expelling French soldiers in 2022, followed by Niger in early 2023, and Burkina Faso in late 2023. These actions were taken amid accusations that France had failed to curb jihadist violence in the region.