Celebrating with supporters in San José, Fernández framed her victory as a decisive break with the political order established after the 1948 civil war. A close ally of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, she campaigned on a platform focused on public security and economic pressures, as Costa Rica faces rising homicides linked to organised crime alongside high living costs, unemployment and inflation.

Yet, Liberia and Georgia are countries where former international football stars became heads of state.

In Liberia, George Weah stands as the most iconic example; not just a sports legend, but a trailblazer whose journey from the dusty streets of Monrovia to the global football elite and, ultimately, the presidency, captured worldwide attention.

After an 18-year professional football career that saw him star for giants like AS Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, Chelsea, and Manchester City, Weah achieved an unprecedented milestone in 1995 by becoming the only African winner of both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year.

Transitioning from sport to politics is seldom straightforward, yet Weah embraced that challenge. After serving as a senator, he successfully campaigned for the Liberian presidency, taking office on January 22, 2018 .

His leadership marked a historic first: Liberia’s first former professional footballer to become a head of state, and a symbol of hope for many Liberians navigating persistent economic and social recovery.

While Liberia’s football-turned-politician narrative is inspiring, a less familiar but contemporarily critical chapter unfolded in Georgia. Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former professional striker who once played for Manchester City, emerged as Georgia’s president as of December 29, 2024.

Kavelashvili’s elevation is distinctive for several reasons. Unlike Weah, who built his political career over years of local campaigns and legislative service, his ascent has been tightly interwoven with ongoing political turmoil in Georgia.

Reports describe a fraught transition marked by protests and allegations of democratic backsliding after the October 2024 elections, as well as geopolitical tensions resulting from strained relations between Tbilisi and Western partners amid disputes over EU accession and democratic norms.

The country decided to put EU accession talks on hold till 2028, even though it is drafted in the constitution.

This dual narrative, a celebrated African football legend turned president, alongside a former European league professional now at the helm of a Eurasian state, highlights the surprising and sometimes controversial intersections between sport, politics, and national identity.

The contrasting trajectories of Weah and Kavelashvili also mirror broader global trends where public fame, whether on a football pitch or in any popular arena, can become potent political capital. Yet the outcomes differ: Weah’s tenure was born from democratic elections and wide public support, while Kavelashvili’s rise is unfolding amidst constitutional contention and mass demonstrations.

“Our debt service is exploding. This means money that could have gone to basic social sectors is instead being used to pay off the debt,” economist Mor Gassama said.

Residents in local markets report increasing living costs, but officials from the ruling Pastef party reject claims that internal disagreements are fuelling the crisis.

“To say there is a crisis is an exaggeration,” said party official Babacar Ndiaye. “There are two men at the head of state entrusted with leading the country. They may differ in their approach, but they share the same ideal: to pull Senegal out of the abyss into which the previous regime plunged it.”

Ndiaye insisted the government is taking steps to revive the economy and urged patience. He cautioned that expectations of rapid recovery are unrealistic.

“Before discussing takeoff, the country must first be on the path to emergence. We can’t expect a takeoff in the short term. To revive our economy, the government has already taken several steps, but economic sovereignty is a long value chain,” he said.

Opposition figures argue that internal strain within the leadership is delaying urgent action and worsening public frustration.

“They’ve been in power for almost two years, and they haven’t accomplished anything. They haven’t reduced government spending, they haven’t reduced the cost of basic necessities,” said Babacar Justin Mbengue of Geum Sa Bopp.

The debate over Senegal’s economic trajectory comes amid rising debt service obligations, increased cost of living, and heightened public scrutiny of the young administration’s policy direction.

However, 47-year-old Fernando Dias also seems to be in a comfortable lead.

After being disqualified from standing as a candidate, opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira has thrown his weight and support behind the Party for Social Renewal (PRS), a party headed by political newcomer Fernando Dias.

Expectations of the citizenry

During a conversation with Abigail Johnson Boakye, a journalist with Global South World, Samba M. Baldé, a Bissau-Guinean journalist, shared that despite the hype surrounding the upcoming elections, electorates seem to be less engaged, as they are tired of slogans and manifestos and want real solutions.

"Engagement exists, but it's uneven because voters react to something that has certain benefits than to only promises because for voters, when candidates fail to translate their proposals into real impact or how they can really impact society, public interest quickly drops. ...But people are, for example, no longer satisfied with slogans. They want clear plans and measurable results in Guinea-Bissau," Samba said.

On November 23, 860,000 voters head to the polls to decide whether their country can finally break free from decades of political turbulence.

Who is Fernando Dias?

Although new to the political spotlight, Dias is not entirely new to public life. His journey reflects a careful mix of academic training, political apprenticeship and a recent surge in national prominence.

He is a trained lawyer, holding both a Bachelor's degree in Law and a postgraduate qualification in Criminal Law from the Bissau Faculty of Law.

Before emerging as a presidential contender, he had built a steady career within state institutions, serving as the first Vice-President of the National People’s Assembly during the 11th legislature.

His roots in party politics run deeper than his “newcomer” label suggests.

He once served as Secretary-General of the youth wing of the Party for Social Renewal (PRS), eventually becoming its interim leader following a leadership vacancy. In June 2024, he was elected as president of the PRS.

He promises security for the people and desires to ensure the military does not interfere in the West African country's politics again.

"Our mission is clear: free Guinea-Bissau from the shackles of dictatorship and return power to the people. With faith, unity and courage, we will win the polls and build a new time for our nation," he wrote on his Facebook wall.

Background

Guinea-Bissau’s presidential and legislative races come at a moment when institutions are strained, and trust is fragile.

Umaro Sissoco Embaló's bid is seen as controversial because he has strategically reshaped the political arena through sudden dismissals and the appointment of a new prime minister ahead of the vote.

Heavyweight Domingos Simões Pereira and the historic PAIGC party-led coalition, PAI-Terra Ranka, were barred from contesting after the Supreme Court ruled their paperwork incomplete in October. This marks the first time the PAIGC party will be absent on a ballot paper.

Coups d'états, dissolved parliaments, and stalled reforms have marked Guinea-Bissau’s history. Embaló dissolved the National Assembly in December 2023, claiming an attempted coup, and left the country with no operational parliament for nearly two years.

Although his tenure ended in February 2025, Embaló stayed in the seat of power.

However, the most recent controversy does not concern small-time users or street-level peddlers. Instead, it erupted at the highest levels of government and within the Marcos family itself.

On Monday, Senator Imee Marcos publicly accused her brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and their children of being drug addicts. 

“Ever since Bongbong and I were kids, the family already knew about him,” she said at a rally organized by the religious group Iglesia ni Cristo.

“I knew that he was using drugs,” she added, claiming the President’s alleged addiction worsened after marrying Liza, whom she also accused of drug use.

Imee further alleged that the First Family encouraged her own children and other relatives to take illegal drugs. 

She said she had kept her distance from the First Family since 2022 due to what she described as “blatant drinking and use of cocaine and other illegal drugs.”

Malacañang was quick to refute the allegations. 

Citing the President’s negative drug tests, Palace undersecretary Claire Castro said Imee was only “tarnishing” her brother’s name and questioned her motives.

Representative Sandro Marcos also rejected the claims as “not only false, but dangerously irresponsible,” accusing his aunt of spreading a “web of lies” for political gain.

The allegations follow earlier attempts by pro-Duterte groups to link Marcos to illegal drugs, including a fake viral video in July 2024 and Duterte’s own accusations in a January rally.

The remarks came during a stop at Yokosuka Naval Base as part of Trump’s ongoing Asia tour. Earlier in the day, he held bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, focusing on regional security, defence cooperation, and trade ties.

The visit to Japan follows Trump’s attendance at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur over the weekend. The president is expected to continue his trip with a visit to South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in what is anticipated to be one of the most closely watched encounters of his tour.

“From the perspective of progressive movements in Latin America , it’s a shame they became divided today in Bolivia”, Sheinbaum said during a press briefing in Mexico City. “Sometimes that is trivialised, but politically speaking, for transformation movements it’s very important to remain united".

Her remarks came a day after centrist candidate Rodrigo Paz Pereira of the Christian Democratic Party won Bolivia’s presidential runoff with 54.5% of the vote, defeating former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga of the LIBRE Alliance, who secured 45.5%, according to preliminary results from Bolivia’s electoral tribunal.

Sheinbaum’s comments reflect growing concern among regional leaders that ideological fragmentation could weaken the broader leftist wave that has defined Latin American politics over the past decade.

Despite his annual presidential salary being declared at G. 37.9 million, the latest figures show monthly expenditures averaging G. 73.7 million, nearly double his official income, according to his own declaration.

Among the more pointed entries is the G. 52 million monthly spend on education , along with G. 2.5 million claimed for clothing, a figure contradicted by internal communications showing single-month expenditures exceeding G. 51 million.

Critics, including Senator Yolanda Paredes, argue that the paperwork does not reconcile with the high-value property and investment disclosures linked to the president’s family and business ties. “The numbers simply don’t add up,” she commented.

With a backdrop of the ongoing “los sobres del poder” corruption scandal, the declaration has triggered calls for an independent audit of Peña’s assets and expenditures. For international observers, the case underlines the persistent challenge of transparency in Latin America ’s executive branches.

“A well-founded request has been made for preventive detention for the maximum period of 180 days,” Zeballos said. “As this is a case of gender-based violence , it is important to fully preserve and protect the rights of women, especially those in situations of vulnerability,” he added.

Authorities had activated an Interpol red notice to locate and apprehend Marcelo Arce before he voluntarily appeared at the Prosecutor’s Office to give a statement.

“Red notices have been activated to carry out geolocation, identification, and arrest for extradition purposes,” Zeballos confirmed, adding that Arce’s appearance came “thanks to the thorough and diligent work of the Prosecutor’s Office.”

Prosecutors say the case is supported by forensic medical reports indicating the victim suffered 12 days of medical incapacity, along with psychological evaluations showing emotional harm.

While a conciliation agreement has reportedly been submitted, prosecutors stressed that any settlement will be evaluated carefully but does not nullify the criminal process.

“I swear to God, for my country, for all Peruvians, I will faithfully exercise the office of President of the Republic,” Jeri declared during his oath ceremony, before delivering his first address as head of state.

In his speech, Jeri placed citizen security at the centre of his administration’s priorities, vowing to take immediate action against the surge in organised crime . “The evil that afflicts us at this moment is citizen insecurity,” he said. “Criminal gangs, criminal organisations — they are our enemies, and we must declare war on crime.”

He also called for unity and renewal, appealing to Peruvians across generations. “From now on, we build the country we should be — the Peru of our dreams, the dreams of our parents and grandparents, and the dreams of our children , of Generation Z, which is rightfully demanding change,” he said.

Jeri’s rise to power followed a Congress vote of 124 in favour of removing Boluarte for “permanent moral incapacity”, a constitutional term frequently invoked in Peru’s recent political crises. Boluarte, who did not attend the session to present her defence, was ousted less than two years after assuming office in December 2022, when she replaced former president Pedro Castillo following his failed attempt to dissolve Congress.

Peru has now seen six presidents in less than a decade, underscoring the deep political instability that has plagued the Andean nation. Jeri, stepping into the presidency amid widespread frustration and insecurity, faces the daunting task of restoring both public trust and political order.

Boluarte’s downfall came after months of mounting outrage over rising criminal violence and deepening corruption scandals. The trigger was a shooting at a cumbia concert in Lima, which left several musicians injured and symbolised her government’s failure to control extortion networks and contract killings that have terrorised Peruvians.

In the past year alone, extortion cases have soared to over 2,000 a month, with dozens of bus drivers and small business owners killed in attacks linked to organised crime. Boluarte’s repeated declarations of emergency and police crackdowns failed to stem the violence — or restore public trust.

Her approval rating had collapsed from 21 per cent to as low as 2 per cent, alienating even the conservative and centrist parties that once backed her coalition. “This session is a mere formality,” said Popular Renewal congresswoman Patricia Chirinos during the debate. “Dina Boluarte is leaving. The countdown has begun.”

As pressure grew, Boluarte faced accusations ranging from accepting luxury Rolex watches as bribes to abandoning her duties for cosmetic surgery. She denied all wrongdoing, but the scandals fed perceptions of arrogance and detachment in a country struggling with hunger, unemployment and insecurity.

When invited to appear before Congress to defend herself, Boluarte failed to attend. Lawmakers proceeded without her, voting unanimously to remove her from office. With no vice president in place, Congress President José Jeri was sworn in as interim head of state until elections scheduled for April 2026 — unless Parliament chooses a new leader beforehand.

Boluarte’s presidency began in 2022 after the ousting of Pedro Castillo, her leftist predecessor, who was arrested for attempting to dissolve Congress. Her decision to remain in power rather than call early elections , as she once promised, sparked deadly protests that left 49 civilians dead — a tragedy that continues to haunt her administration.

Analysts say her removal reflects not just public anger at crime and corruption, but a systemic collapse of political credibility. Peru’s recent history reads like a cycle of collapse: six former presidents have been jailed in the past two decades, and nearly every living ex-president has faced charges of corruption or abuse of power.

Sheinbaum framed her government’s achievements in security, social welfare, health , and energy independence within this context of defending Mexico’s autonomy. She emphasised that recent constitutional reforms reinforce protection against any attempts to compromise the nation’s independence.

Economic stability also featured in her address, with Sheinbaum noting a 12% increase in the minimum wage for 2025 and highlighting strong macroeconomic indicators, including controlled inflation, record foreign investment, and a stable peso.

She contrasted her administration’s approach with past governments, arguing that previous neoliberal policies exacerbated inequality, while her model — focused on social justice, state intervention, and wealth redistribution — aims to strengthen the nation both economically and politically.

Concluding her report, Sheinbaum reaffirmed Mexico’s democratic principles, stating that the country remains a free and sovereign state, where citizens’ voices determine government power and foreign influence will not dictate domestic affairs.

The death of 27-year-old Omar Badjie in Mandinaring has triggered nationwide outrage, with conflicting accounts deepening public mistrust of the authorities. Police said Badjie collapsed while fleeing a patrol. However, eyewitnesses allege he was beaten while in handcuffs. His family has rejected the official explanation, demanding accountability. The Gambia Police Force has issued a statement expressing condolences and pledging an investigation.

The Gambia auditor flags unreported funds in Mega Bank sale

The Auditor General’s 2023 financial report has revealed discrepancies in the sale of Mega Bank, noting that while the bank was sold for D921.2 million, only D896.8 million was recorded in government financial statements, leaving D24.4 million unreported. Of this amount, D23 million was disbursed by the Central Bank directly to Guarantee Trust Bank accounts without passing through the Consolidated Fund or Treasury Main Account. The sale of Mega Bank to KM Holdings for US$15.25 million in December 2024 drew widespread criticism, with lawmakers and civil society raising concerns over transparency.

Audit reveals $520,000 in undocumented spending by presidency

The 2023 Audit Report on The Gambia’s government accounts has found that the Office of the President disbursed over $520,000 to suppliers without the required procurement documents. This included a $14,000 business-class ticket for First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow’s travel to New York. The report also noted that in November 2023, the presidency extended a soft loan of $520,000 to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Secretariat to cover staff salaries.

Audit finds $10.2 million discrepancy in government accounts

The National Audit Office has reported discrepancies of more than $10.2 million in The Gambia’s 2022 government financial statements. According to the audit, closing balances from 2021 were not accurately carried forward as opening balances in 2022, resulting in variances totalling $10.2 million across several government accounts.

Autopsy conducted on Omar Badjie amid disputed accounts of his death

A post-mortem examination has been carried out at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital on the body of Omar Badjie, whose death has drawn conflicting accounts from his family, eyewitnesses, and the police. The examination was conducted by Dr. Leigh in the presence of Dr. Daffeh, representing the family, and the family’s legal counsel, Ayub Johnny Njie of AJ Njie & Associates Law Chambers, to determine the official cause of death. Badjie’s family and eyewitnesses allege he was assaulted by security officers after being found with a cannabis joint, while police claim he died after falling during a “hot pursuit” and was later pronounced dead.

What they said

“In applying article 7 of the military penal code, the court imposes a single sentence, namely the most severe one, which is the death penalty,” Lt Gen Mutombo Katalayi said in court. “This is a vast joke. We have always said this is a political trial,” Kabila's party’s permanent secretary, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, said after the verdict. “Instead of seeking cohesion and national reconciliation, this trial will further divide Congolese.” However, victims’ lawyers hailed the outcome. “Victims finally appear and the suffering they live in anonymity now has an author,” said Kasongo Mayombo, who represented several NGOs in eastern Congo.

The arrest comes amid weeks of protests that have shaken the West African nation. Demonstrators have called for Gnassingbé, in power since 2005 after succeeding his father’s 38-year rule, to step down. Anger intensified earlier this year after a controversial constitutional change allowed Gnassingbé to transition into a new role as President of the Council of Ministers — the most powerful office in the executive branch, with no term limits.

Gnakadé, widow of the president’s late elder brother Ernest Gnassingbé, served as defence minister between 2020 and 2022, one of the first women to hold the post. In recent months, she had published scathing articles urging the president to resign in favour of what she called a “peaceful, inclusive, and national transition.” Her outspoken stance marked a rare public break within the ruling family.

News of her detention quickly went viral on social media, with opposition parties and civil society groups denouncing what they described as a politically motivated crackdown. The coalition Touche Pas A Ma Constitution (“Don’t Touch My Constitution”) accused security forces of arresting her without a warrant. “Once again, this is an abuse of power that characterises the regime’s retrograde practices. The aim is to silence a dissenting voice,” the group said in a statement, demanding her unconditional release.

A youth-led movement known as M66 also issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the authorities, threatening nationwide demonstrations if Gnakadé is not freed.

Judiciary sources said she is being questioned over alleged ties to exiled opposition figures and claims she sought to incite disobedience within the armed forces. If convicted, she could face between 10 and 20 years in prison.

In June, civil rights groups reported at least seven deaths during a crackdown on anti-government protests, with bodies recovered from rivers in Lomé. The government denied the fatalities were linked to demonstrations.

The coming days are expected to bring clarity on the charges against Gnakadé, but her arrest has already deepened tensions in a country grappling with protests, political repression, and anger at a regime that has ruled for nearly 60 years.

Who’s behind bars?

In recent years, Barbadillo has housed four former presidents in all. Alberto Fujimori (president 1990–2000) was its first occupant. Extradited from Chile, Fujimori was convicted in 2009 of authorising death-squad killings and other abuses and sentenced to 25 years. He then spent 16 years at Barbadillo. As he aged and fell ill, critics fought his 2017 pardon, but a 2023 court ultimately ordered his release on humanitarian grounds. On December 7, 2023, Barbadillo’s gates opened for Fujimori – now 85 – when Peru’s highest court restored his pardon.

Ollanta Humala (2011–2016) was also jailed at Barbadillo, but only briefly. In 2017, Peru built the facility for Fujimori, then transferred Humala there under guard when he faced a money-laundering probe tied to Odebrecht. Humala’s cell was kept separate from Fujimori’s, but both had similar quarters – a bedroom, office and a courtyard for gardening. (Humala and his wife were later freed on appeal.) Martín Vizcarra (2018–2020) spent just 22 days in Barbadillo in 2022 under pre-trial detention on graft allegations as a regional governor before a court ordered his release.

Pedro Castillo was whisked to Barbadillo immediately after his dramatic ouster and arrest in December 2022. Castillo, a former schoolteacher, had declared a self-coup attempt by announcing the dissolution of Congress, triggering his impeachment on charges of “rebellion and conspiracy”. He has been held on a preventive detention order – initially seven days, later extended to 36 months – while facing a trial for these charges. (He also faces separate graft investigations from his time in office.)

Alejandro Toledo arrived at Barbadillo in April 2023 after a lengthy extradition from the U.S. Reuters reports note he was ordered to serve 18 months of pre-trial detention in the Lima police base. Toledo is accused of taking up to $35 million in bribes from Brazil’s Odebrecht for public works (Interoceanica Sur highway). He has denied wrongdoing, but in October 2024, a court convicted him of accepting bribes and sentenced him to 20.5 years, and in September 2025, a second conviction (money laundering) added 13 years. He is now formally serving those terms concurrently in Barbadillo’s Lima police-base prison .

What life inside looks like

Compared to overcrowded Peruvian prisons, Barbadillo offers relatively privileged conditions: a small number of cells, personal bathrooms, study areas, and even garden access. While these amenities have raised debates about whether ex-presidents are being treated too leniently, the facility remains far from luxurious.

Built originally for former President Alberto Fujimori upon his 2007 extradition, Barbadillo sits inside a fenced special-operations police base, and its official capacity is only two (later expanded to three) inmates

In practice , it has become Peru’s “presidential prison,” quietly holding a parade of ex-leaders. Despite its upgraded quarters, Barbadillo is not gilded: authorities stress it has no secret luxuries, only slightly roomier cells than the country’s overcrowded jails.

Each bedroom in Barbadillo is roughly 4×4 meters and comes with basic furniture, including a bed, a couch, and a table, but no bars on the windows.

Wilfredo Pedraza, former head of Peru’s National Penitentiary Institute and now Ollanta Humala’s lawyer, described Barbadillo as “a prison without the usual barred windows.”

For many Peruvians, Barbadillo is both a symbol of justice catching up with corrupt leaders and a reminder of the country’s ongoing governance crisis.

Unfortunately, this trend has led to increased coups, further fueled by widespread corruption and poverty plaguing the continent. For instance, in Guinea, a staggering 55 per cent of the population lived below the poverty line in 2019, while in Congo, the figure stood at an estimated 47 per cent.

Despite calls for democratic reforms, the continent continues to grapple with the repercussions of prolonged leadership, undermining efforts towards democracy and stability.

In 2023, the prolonged tenure of African leaders became evident, with five sitting heads of state having ruled for over three decades each. Notable among them were Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, Paul Biya of Cameroon, Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda , Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, and José Eduardo dos Santos of Angola

Gabon and Togo had witnessed a dynastic rule spanning more than fifty years. For instance, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa extended his family's influence by appointing close relatives to his cabinet following his reelection in 2023.

Here are highlights of some leaders who have made staying longer in power a norm.

Teodoro Obiang Nguema of Guinea

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has ruled Equatorial Guinea since 1979, making him the world's longest-standing president. His rise to power through a military coup ousted his uncle, Francisco Macias Nguema, the country's first leader. However, his regime has been heavily criticised for its repressive and authoritarian rule, leading some to label Equatorial Guinea as the "North Korea of Africa." He has also appointed his son, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, as vice president.

Paul Biya of Cameroon

President Paul Biya of Cameroon follows closely, serving as the second-longest-serving leader since 1982. Despite surviving a coup attempt in 1984, Biya's presidency has faced scrutiny for its longevity and governance issues.

President Omar Bongo of Gabon

President Omar Bongo Ondimba of Gabon held power for nearly forty-two years, from 1967 until his passing in 2009. Following his demise, his son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, continued the family's rule for another fourteen years until August 2023. Amid corruption scandals conflict in the country's east under his presidency is considered one of the deadliest conflicts since World War II.

Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo

Denis Sassou Nguesso has been a fixture in Congolese politics for over thirty-seven years, amending the constitution in 2015 to remove term limits, allowing him to maintain his grip on power.

Yoweri Museveni of Uganda

Yoweri Museveni is the only president a quarter of Uganda’s population under the age of 35 years has known. He has been Uganda's president since 1986, during which he has overseen a period of peace and significant developmental progress. However, his prolonged stay in power, marked by manipulation of institutions, has drawn criticism. Recent changes removing the age limit for the presidency suggest he could remain in power for life.

Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea

Isaias Afwerki has been the only President of Eritrea since the country gained independence in April 1993, making him the only leader Eritreans have known during their independent history. With three decades in power, Afwerki has never faced an election and is known for stifling dissent and arbitrarily arresting opponents without due process of law. Additionally, Eritreans under his presidency are expected to serve a mandatory 18-month military service which often extends indefinitely.

The issue persists because leaders are utilising tactics such as "constitutional coups" to secure longer terms in office. Many African countries have resorted to tactics such as amending constitutions to reset term limits, removing age restrictions, or creatively reinterpreting constitutional provisions. These measures, often controversial, perpetuate authoritarian regimes in a region where poverty remains pervasive.

Jorine Najjemba, a 20-year-old senior six graduate from Nkowe, has formally entered Uganda’s 2026 presidential race. On August 11, she picked nomination forms, declaring herself a fresh alternative to the current leadership under the slogan Open Door, New Uganda for Everyone . Najjemba said she developed her political ambition in 2016 while in primary six and expressed confidence in her ability to bring change despite her age and gender.

Government targets $500bn GDP by 2040 through agriculture

Uganda aims to grow its GDP from $50 billion to $500 billion by 2040, with agricultural financing at the core of its strategy. Bank of Uganda Governor Michael Atingi-Ego told the Propagate Summit in Munyonyo that private sector credit, currently at UGX 26 trillion, must rise to UGX 260 trillion to meet the goal. He emphasised the importance of digital tools like financial passports to unlock funding and transform farmers’ livelihoods.

UK export agency backs quarry and asphalt project

UK Export Finance has guaranteed a £5.29 million loan to Ugandan firm IBBI from the London Forfaiting Company, enabling the purchase of UK-made machinery for a granite quarry and asphalt plant. The project, supported by Rainbo and Neba Freight Ltd, is expected to boost infrastructure development and build on IBBI’s engineering work across East and Central Africa.

Museveni discusses Nile link with Egypt

Speaking in Cairo on August 12, President Yoweri Museveni said meeting the electricity, irrigation, and water needs of all Nile Basin countries is key to regional prosperity. He revealed discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on linking Uganda to the Mediterranean via the River Nile, potentially connecting Kampala to Alexandria.

MTN Uganda posts strong revenue growth despite profit dip

MTN Uganda reported a 13.1% rise in total revenue to UGX 1.722 trillion ($483.68mn) for the first half of 2025, driven by growth in data and fintech services. Data revenue rose 31.3% to UGX 490.2bn, while fintech revenue climbed 18.6% to UGX 524.6bn. Profit after tax fell 9.7% to UGX 267bn due to a one-off tax settlement, but underlying profit increased 27.8%. Subscriber numbers grew 10.2% to 22.8 million, with significant gains in data usage.

Officials have warned that the flag, viewed by some as a protest against President Prabowo Subianto’s policies , must not be flown alongside the red-and-white Merah Putih national flag.

Bengawan Aryanto, a 58-year-old entrepreneur, voiced support for the movement.

“I actually wanted to join in. But I had a lot to think about. Still, I think it’s good, it’s creative. And if I get the chance, I’ll wear a One Piece t-shirt, drink One Piece coffee, and even raise the One Piece flag as a form of protest against the government, which isn’t doing well right now,” he said.

Amnesty International Indonesia has questioned the legal basis for banning the flag.

“Has he incited hatred based on religion , ethnicity, race, intergroup relations, national origin or sexual orientation? Is he inciting discrimination on these grounds? Is he propagating a war? For example, of a state or an armed group? If not, then it cannot be banned,” said Usman Hamid, its executive director.

Hamid also noted symbolic parallels between the One Piece flag and Indonesia’s own.

“If we connect it with Indonesia’s independence, on August 17, the spirit of One Piece is the same as that of the Merah Putih : fighting oppression, declaring independence and freedom, and striving for justice and the removal of all restraints,” he said.

The One Piece manga, created by Eiichiro Oda in 1997, follows the adventures of a band of pirates in search of a legendary treasure. It has become one of the best-selling comics of all time and has a massive global fan base, with its Jolly Roger emblem recognised worldwide.

The two Southeast Asian nations agreed to a ceasefire on Tuesday, July 29, after five days of deadly clashes along their shared border, which left at least 43 people dead on both sides and displaced hundreds.

The breakthrough came during high-level talks brokered in Malaysia, where President Trump reportedly played a central mediating role. Both Thailand and Cambodia had been actively courting the U.S. leader as they sought to secure favourable trade agreements and avoid steep tariffs threatened by Washington.

The truce marks a significant de-escalation in a conflict that had threatened to spiral into a wider regional crisis. Details of the ceasefire agreement have not been fully disclosed, but observers say it includes a withdrawal of troops from contested areas and the establishment of a joint monitoring mechanism.

The president said he was responding to calls from citizens across the country. “Women and young people from all regions of Côte d’Ivoire, and countless anonymous voices from our neighbourhoods, towns, and villages have reached out,” he said. “I have made this decision guided solely by the best interest of the nation.”

In Abidjan, many residents appeared unsurprised by the move.

“In any case, they’re all old,” said Eddy Battan, who sells household goods at a roadside stall. “We just have to do things right. So, he decides to run—okay, there’s no problem.”

With several prominent opposition figures disqualified from running, Ouattara is the clear frontrunner ahead of the October 25 vote. His critics argue that the playing field is neither fair nor inclusive.

Ouattara has led the Ivory Coast since 2011. In 2020, he won a controversial third term after a constitutional change reset term limits. At the time, he had promised to step aside, but reversed his position following the death of Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly, his chosen successor.

In the days following his latest announcement, there have been no major protests or rallies in Abidjan. Public reaction has remained muted, with many Ivorians expressing resignation about the country’s political direction.

“It’s the same people, the same speeches,” said a teacher who declined to give her name. “Young people talk about change, but the reality is different.”

At 92, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has announced his bid for an eighth term in the October 12 election, aiming to extend his 43-year rule. In a post on X, Biya cited “insistent calls” from citizens to run again. In power since 1982, he scrapped term limits in 2008 and has never lost an election. His bid comes amid growing criticism over alleged corruption, embezzlement, and poor governance. If re-elected, Biya would remain in office until nearly 100.

Cameroon’s economic update: Harnessing forests and natural wealth for sustainable growth

The World Bank has released its 2025 Cameroon Economic Update, titled “Cameroon’s Green Gold: Unlocking the Value of Forests and Natural Capital.” The report emphasises sustainable forest and resource management as drivers of inclusive, resilient growth, while offering a detailed analysis of recent economic trends and outlook. In 2024, Cameroon’s GDP grew by 3.5% (up from 3.2% in 2023), boosted by cocoa prices, cotton yields, and power supply improvements. Inflation dropped sharply from 7.4% to 4.5%, aided by tighter monetary policy and price controls. The current account deficit narrowed to 3.4% of GDP, though the fiscal deficit widened to 1.5% due to rising expenditures and weaker revenues. Public debt inched up to 46.8%, mainly from external borrowing.

Société Générale signs agreement with Cameroon to sell Société Générale Cameroun

Société Générale has agreed to sell its 58.08% stake in Société Générale Cameroun to the State of Cameroon, which would raise its ownership to 83.68%. The state will assume all operations, clients, and employees of the subsidiary. The deal, pending regulatory approval, is expected to close by end-2025 and boost Societe Generale’s CET1 ratio by about 6 basis points.

Cameroon LGBTQI groups host "impactful" cultural event

On July 3, Yaoundé’s Kyriakides Park came alive with “Spectacle Culturel,” a vibrant event celebrating diversity in the arts under the theme “For an inclusive and non-discriminatory artistic environment.” Organised by the Unity platform, a coalition of 39 civil society groups, and coordinated by CAMFAIDS, the show featured theatre, music, slam, and dance to highlight LGBTQI rights and fight stigma in the cultural sector. Unity president Michel Engama stressed the event’s goal to amplify silenced voices, while CAMFAIDS' Ebenezer Munkam called it a vital step toward building a more inclusive and equitable artistic world in Cameroon.

Cameroon priest says synodality counters ‘nauseating’ politics

In sharp contrast to the “nauseating” and divisive nature of Cameroon’s electoral politics, Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy is calling for a renewed focus on synodality, a path rooted in unity, listening, and inclusion, as the nation prepares for its 2025 elections and Jubilee Year of Hope. Mbuy described synodality as a “spiritual renewal” that prioritises truth, honesty, and fraternity, unlike election tactics marked by manipulation and exclusion. He noted the challenge facing Christian politicians caught between political strategy and the Church’s call for inclusive, Christ-centred leadership. As both politics and the Church demand action in 2025, Mbuy stressed that synodality offers a hopeful alternative where “no one is left behind” in building a unified people of God.

It is the latest in a series of cost-cutting steps aimed at redirecting public funds toward health, education, and infrastructure.

Presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said in a statement that the decision fits into a broader plan to ensure fiscal discipline and rebuild public trust in government spending.

“This is part of efforts to streamline governance and ensure that resources are focused on national development priorities,” he was quoted by state media .

The president’s directive follows earlier ones, including a reduction in the number of ministers, tighter travel rules for officials, and a ban on luxury services such as satellite television in public offices.

Just days earlier, the government also announced plans to install prepaid electricity meters in all state offices to cut waste.

Officials say removing fuel perks alone is expected to save millions of cedis each year.

Those savings will now be used to support basic services, especially in communities where access to education and healthcare remains limited.

While some Ghanaians have praised the move as necessary, critics are urging the government to go further by cutting other benefits given to public officeholders.

According to Federal Oral Court 2, Kirchner and eight other officials were found guilty in 2022 of steering 51 infrastructure contracts in Santa Cruz province to a businessman, who is a close associate of the Kirchner family. The contracts were characterised by inflated costs and collusion, resulting in an estimated loss of about $500 million.

If the convicted parties do not repay their share within ten days of the final calculation, the court will begin asset seizures. Kirchner’s holdings include two properties in Buenos Aires, 24 in Santa Cruz, and stakes in three family firms, which have all been frozen, though many were transferred to her children, Máximo and Florencia Kirchner.

Prosecutors maintain that these assets remain subject to confiscation if proven to be illicitly acquired.

The case is being closely watched across Latin America as a major test of judicial independence and accountability in high-level corruption.

Kirchner, a prominent Peronist and critic of current President Javier Milei, is currently under house arrest, a measure facing legal challenges from both prosecutors and her own lawyers.

Federal prosecutors argue she should be imprisoned due to her good health and lack of age-related vulnerability.

The final ruling on her detention, expected soon from the Cámara de Casación Penal, and the enforcement of asset confiscation could set a precedent for political accountability in Argentina.

Across the globe, a number of former presidents are being held accountable for corruption, with legal proceedings highlighting a growing push for transparency and justice.

In South Africa, former president Jacob Zuma is currently standing trial over his alleged involvement in a $2.5 billion arms deal. Prosecutors accuse Zuma of accepting bribes and engaging in fraud during his time in office, in what has become one of the country’s most closely watched legal battles.

In Peru, former president Ollanta Humala is facing charges of money laundering and embezzlement after allegedly receiving illicit campaign funds from the Brazilian construction giant, Odebrecht.

Meanwhile, in South Korea, former president Park Geun-hye was convicted in a wide-ranging corruption case involving major conglomerates, including Samsung. She was sentenced to 22 years in prison before receiving a presidential pardon in 2021 on health grounds.

What they said

Former presidential candidate, Ricardo Lombana, stated that, “the unilateral decision to cancel visas is a sovereign power of each state. Today I was informed of the revocation of my US visa, as they have done with other political leaders.”

Investigations have been repeatedly derailed by gang violence, death threats to judges, and the resignation of court officials fearing for their lives. To date, not one of the 20 suspects imprisoned in Haiti has faced trial, despite charges being filed.

Several key suspects, including former National Palace security chief Dimitri Hérard, escaped in a mass prison break last year after gangs stormed Haiti’s main jails. Court proceedings now take place in private residences under armed guard, after the capital’s courthouse was seized by criminal groups controlling over 85% of Port-au-Prince, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) .

The case implicates 51 suspects, including 17 former Colombian soldiers, three Haitian officials, and figures linked to a Miami-based security firm. Some detainees maintain they were contracted for infrastructure security and had no role in the murder.

Allegations of torture, forced confessions, and denial of legal rights have been raised by defence lawyers. One Colombian, Jheyner Alberto Carmona Flores, testified that he suffered “psychological and physical torture,” claiming he had no knowledge of Moïse’s whereabouts during the attack.

Despite chaos in Haiti, the United States has prosecuted 11 individuals connected to the plot, with five pleading guilty. Court documents from the U.S. Department of Justice allege that the original plan was to detain Moïse, but it shifted to assassination after logistical failures. The U.S. trial is set for March 2026.

The revived Haitian probe, now overseen by six judges including Claude Jean and Phemond Damicy, is seen as a critical step toward accountability, though many remain sceptical.

“The local investigation has exposed the systemic collapse of justice in Haiti,” said Bruner Ulysse, a Haitian lawyer and historian. “International efforts may help, but true justice still feels out of reach.”

The case has significant global implications, as it reveals the fragility of governance in Haiti, a nation already overwhelmed by criminal networks and political vacuums.

  What they said

“Doña Violeta died peacefully, surrounded by the affection and love of her children and those who had provided her with extraordinary care, and now she finds herself in the peace of the Lord,” the Chamorro family said in a statement. They added that she will be temporarily buried in Costa Rica "until Nicaragua once again becomes a republic.”

The Philippines is now experiencing the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Western Pacific, with a 500% surge in new daily cases. From January to March 2025, the Department of Health (DOH) recorded 57 new HIV cases daily, totalling 5,101, including a 12-year-old from Palawan. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has urged President Marcos to declare a national public health emergency, warning the HIV crisis is a “bigger” problem than mpox. He stressed that a nationwide emergency would enable a whole-of-society response. Surveillance data shows a troubling trend: younger Filipinos are increasingly affected. The predominant age group shifted from 35–49 in the early 2000s to 25–34 starting in 2006. Cases among those under 15 surged by 133%, and among 15–24-year-olds by 106%.

Philippines' unemployment rises to 4.1% in April from 3.9% in March

The Philippine job market saw a modest dip in April as the unemployment rate rose to 4.1%, up from 3.9% in March, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). This translates to about 2.06 million Filipinos out of work, slightly higher than the 2.04 million reported in April 2024, PSA Chief Dennis Mapa confirmed. The uptick comes amid ongoing economic challenges, including global trade disruptions, high inflation, corruption, and climate-related issues, which could further strain the country’s economy. Despite this, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development remains optimistic. Acting head Rosemarie Edillon said the labour market continues to show resilience and that the country is still on track to meet its 2023–2028 unemployment target of 4.4% to 4.7%.

Public sentiment sours on the state of the economy

Filipino consumers grew more pessimistic about the economy in the first quarter of 2025, driven by rising inflation, declining incomes, and limited job opportunities, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The BSP’s latest consumer sentiment survey showed the overall confidence index (CI) dropped to -13%, down from -11.1% in the previous quarter. While the index remains above the pandemic low in Q3 2020, it has yet to return to the positive sentiment recorded in late 2019 and early 2020. The BSP reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a manageable inflation, projecting a 2% – 4% target range from 2025 to 2027 to help foster investment and job creation.

Philippine embassy officially opens consulate in Botswana

The Philippines formally reopened its consular mission in Gaborone , Botswana, on 2 June 2025, after a temporary closure in March 2022. The inauguration was led by Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja, with Ms. Annelin Vista, a Botswana citizen of Filipino descent, appointed as Honorary Consul. Vista will assist Filipino nationals, promote Philippine trade and cultural ties, and provide consular services. Ambassador Baja emphasised the government’s commitment to serving the Filipino community and strengthening Philippines-Botswana relations, which date back to 1967. The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, local government, and the Filipino diaspora. The ambassador also held a meet-and-greet with the Filipino community later that day.

Sweden, Philippines boost defence ties

Sweden has named Lt. Col. Anders Nikanorsson as its new non-resident defence attaché to the Philippines, following Manila’s recent appointment of a counterpart to Stockholm. Based in Bangkok, Nikanorsson will help advance Sweden’s strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific. Calling the Philippines a key maritime partner, Nikanorsson emphasised its role in promoting a rules-based global order. Ambassador Anna Ferry welcomed his appointment, noting it will enhance Sweden’s ability to engage on regional security issues. The move reflects Sweden’s growing defence focus on the Indo-Pacific, amid the region's rising geopolitical significance.

What they said

An official with the Malawian Coalition for Aviation Reform, speaking anonymously, said, “This is not just about a faulty aircraft. This is about a failed system that allowed this to happen. If the investigations are true, then the blood of Vice President Saulos Chilima and the eight others is on the hands of those who chose to ignore the risks.” Shadreck Namalomba, Publicity Secretary of Malawi's main opposition, the Democratic Progressive Party, told Anadolu Agency , “The report doesn’t satisfy the curiosity of Malawians who want to know the truth. It’s very technical and falls short of quenching our hunger for truth.”

South African firm Grindrod will invest $80 million over two years to expand the Matola Coal Terminal at Maputo Port from 8 million to 12 million tonnes annually. President Daniel Chapo, at the launch of new administrative facilities, emphasised prioritising rail over road to boost efficiency and regional competitiveness. The investment aims to create 800 direct jobs by 2027 and enhance sustainable development through integrated logistics.

Jihadist attacks in Mozambique as Total plans gas project restart

Islamic State-linked militants have renewed attacks in northern Mozambique, including deadly raids on military posts and a wildlife reserve, as TotalEnergies prepares to restart its major gas project. Analysts link the violence to recent announcements, including $4.7 billion in new funding from the US.

Mozambique keeps key interest rate steady at 18% in June

Mozambique’s benchmark interest rate for credit will remain at 18% in June, according to the Mozambican Banking Association (AMB). The rate has fallen steadily from 24.1% in January 2024, with a 0.5 percentage point cut in May and earlier in March. The AMB kept it steady at 19% in February and April. This decline follows reductions in the central bank’s monetary policy interest rate (MIMO rate), which dropped from 12.25% in January to 11.75% in March, reflecting continued low inflation expectations despite fiscal risks. Meanwhile, credit to the economy rose slightly in March to nearly 285 billion meticais (€3.99 billion), after a notable drop in February.

Government settles all unpaid debt service from 2024

Mozambique fully cleared its 2024 external debt arrears in Q1 2025 , paying $210.34 million (€185.6 million) in principal and interest, according to a Ministry of Finance report. Over half of the €47.3 million in unpaid debt was owed to Portugal. Payment delays had been blamed on post-election unrest and budget shortfalls. The report warns of added fiscal pressure in 2025 due to residual obligations and debt management system limitations.

Chapo wants fewer trucks, more trains to the port of Maputo

Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo has called the growing use of road transport for coal and magnetite to the Matola Coal Terminal “unacceptable,” urging a return to boost efficiency and competitiveness. Speaking at the inauguration of Grindrod’s new office and the launch of an $80 million expansion, Chapo stressed that Matola’s infrastructure was built for rail. He also highlighted the $160 million container terminal project and the broader port expansion under the 25-year extension of the Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) concession, which includes $600 million in planned investments. MPDC aims to modernise facilities, reduce logistics costs, and create new jobs, reinforcing Mozambique’s role as a logistics hub in southern Africa.

Nicuşor Dan, the current mayor of Bucharest and a former civil society activist, secured 53.6% of the vote in the second round, after a campaign centred on anti-corruption, EU integration, and urban development, defeating George Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), who garnered 46.4%.

The victory has been widely celebrated by pro-democracy advocates, especially among younger and urban voters who view Dan as a symbol of transparency and progressive leadership.

Celebrations broke out in the streets of Bucharest and other major cities late Sunday night, May 18, with crowds waving Romanian and European Union flags, chanting Dan’s name and calling for a “new Romania.” Many supporters see his presidency as a turning point that could reverse years of political stagnation and nationalist rhetoric.

"I am happy, confident and optimistic for the next five years. Romanians have united, mobilised and voted massively in the direction that I consider to be the right one, the direction of the European Union, the direction of freedom, and they have not allowed themselves to be carried away by this sovereigntist wave that has risen in recent months," Maria Achim, a student told AFP during the celebration rally.

The runoff witnessed a historic voter turnout of 64.72%, the highest since 1996, with over 11.6 million votes cast, reflecting the high stakes of a race widely seen as a referendum on Romania’s future on the international stage.

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is widely seen as his father's likely successor, made the remarks in a series of posts on social media on May 17.

He warned that those who do not support the president “wholeheartedly” should be “very careful” and went on to say that “traitors” would be deported “in public view.”

The comments come just months before Uganda’s general election, set for January, and as the government intensifies its clampdown on opposition voices.

Earlier this month, Kainerugaba claimed he was responsible for the capture and beating of Eddie Mutwe, the bodyguard of opposition leader Bobi Wine.

Mutwe later appeared in court with visible injuries. Uganda’s Justice Minister Norbert Mao confirmed the incident, saying Mutwe had been tortured.

Kainerugaba also wrote online that he took “full responsibility” for the actions of his soldiers, calling the assault on Mutwe “an appetiser.”

In another post, the general ordered that female soldiers must now wear skirts instead of trousers during parades.

“Trousers are for men, not for women,” he said. “Anyone who forces our sisters to put on trousers on parade again will have a very bad day.”

The Uganda People ’s Defence Force includes a small number of female soldiers. While skirts are worn on ceremonial occasions, they are normally given the same uniform as men.

The general’s remarks have raised concerns both in Uganda and abroad, with critics accusing him of abusing his power and undermining democratic values.

“Thank you for everything you gave us and for your deep love for the people,”  he wrote on X .

The cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but Mujica had been living with esophageal cancer.

Who was he?

Mujica served as president of Uruguay from 2010 to 2015.

Known affectionately as “Pepe,” he gained international recognition not just for leading a small South American country, but for living like an ordinary citizen.

He donated most of his salary, drove an old Volkswagen Beetle, and lived in a modest house outside the capital, Montevideo.

While in office, Mujica led Uruguay through a series of progressive reforms.

Under him, the country became the first in the world to legalise the production and sale of marijuana.

Abortion was also legalised, and same-sex marriage was approved during his term.

His plain speech and simple lifestyle made him one of Latin America’s most admired leaders, even beyond the region.

Before entering politics, Mujica was a leftist guerrilla and a founding member of the Tupamaros National Liberation Movement.

In the 1960s and 70s, the group carried out armed resistance against what it saw as an unjust system. Mujica was imprisoned multiple times, shot, tortured, and kept in solitary confinement for long periods.

He spent a total of 14 years behind bars, much of it during Uruguay’s military dictatorship.

He once said that the happiest day of his life was not when he became president, but when he was freed from prison.

The years in jail left deep marks on him, but they also shaped his thinking and his commitment to a simpler, more equal society.

José Mujica leaves behind a political legacy that made Uruguay known around the world for its progressive policies and a leader who proved that power does not need luxury.

His sudden departure, which took place under the radar, has drawn attention because it happened amid tight airport security and ongoing political unrest.

The 80-year-old was accompanied by his wife, brother, and brother-in-law. A viral image of him at the airport has since intensified public interest and debate.

The interim government, now led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, was reportedly caught off guard.

Authorities say Hamid left legally and that no court order had barred him from travelling.

“There was no request or application from the police to detain or arrest him in any case,” an airport official who spoke to Dhaka Post was quoted by the Times of India .

Hamid, who served two terms as president, is reported to be facing a murder charge.

 His escape has sparked criticism from student activists, who are demanding that officials responsible for allowing his departure be held accountable within 24 hours.

The political climate in Bangladesh has been tense since August, when former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India following a student-led uprising.

Many top leaders from the Awami League party have since been jailed or gone missing.

It included short breaks for prayers, but Muizzu continued answering questions throughout.

The president responded to reporters and also took questions sent in by members of the public. His office said the long press session was held to mark World Press Freedom Day and to show support for journalists.

“He acknowledged the crucial role of the press in society and emphasised the importance of factual, balanced, and impartial reporting,” the president’s office told Agence France-Presse.

Around two dozen journalists attended the marathon briefing and were served food during the session.

Muizzu, 46, came to power in 2023.

According to his team, the nearly 15-hour press talk beats the previous record of 14 hours held by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky since 2019.

Before that, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko had set a record with a press conference that lasted more than seven hours.

The Maldives government also used the event to highlight that the country had moved up two places in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders. It now ranks 104 out of 180 countries globally.

The Maldives, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for drawing attention to global issues in unusual ways.

In 2009, former president Mohamed Nasheed held the world’s first underwater cabinet meeting to warn about rising sea levels caused by climate change .

Following the announcement of a 32% tariff on Indonesian exports by the US, up to 50,000 Indonesian workers may face layoffs, prompting President Prabowo to instruct cabinet members to explore employment measures urgently. According to VN Express , this assessment was shared by Vice Chair of Indonesia’s National Economic Council, Mari Elka Pangestu, highlighting ongoing negotiations and various initiatives to mitigate impacts on the labour-intensive textile and shrimp processing industries.

Concerns over military role in governance

Amid concerns about Indonesia regressing to authoritarianism reminiscent of Suharto's regime, critics are alarmed at President Prabowo's moves to expand the military's role in governance. Human rights advocates emphasise a collective trauma over past abuses as public protests arise against new legislation, as reported by the Economic Times . Despite this, Prabowo maintains that limitations are in place, while fears of media suppression and intimidation grow due to recent incidents involving local journalists.

Withdrawal from $7.7 billion EV battery project

A South Korean consortium led by LG has decided to withdraw its $7.7 billion electric vehicle battery supply chain project in Indonesia, citing changes in the industrial landscape and reduced global EV demand. Despite this exit, LG Energy Solution plans to maintain its existing operations in Indonesia, including a joint venture with Hyundai for battery production, reports Social News XYZ .

Rising cocaine use reported in Indonesia

Tempo reports that the Indonesian National Police reported a rising trend in cocaine use, evidenced by a recent seizure of 25 kilogrammes of cocaine in Aceh and North Sumatra. The increase reflects the activity of an international drug distribution network. Despite cocaine's limited distribution due to high costs, arrests in this case indicate growing concerns regarding drug abuse in the country.

First ministerial ‘2+2’ dialogue between Indonesia and China

Indonesia and China are set to hold their first-ever 2+2 ministerial dialogue on April 21 in Beijing, marking a significant step in bilateral relations. This dialogue, which underscores strategic cooperation, follows previous meetings between President Xi Jinping and President Prabowo. The meeting aims to discuss security, political cooperation, and regional collaboration, further solidifying the nations' 75-year diplomatic relationship, reports Antara .

A senior official from his Liberal Party said Bolsonaro experienced "unbearable abdominal pain."

Medical Director of the Rio Grande Hospital, Luiz Roberto Leite Fonseca, told the media that "Mr. Jair Bolsonaro is hospitalised with stable vital signs, receiving intravenous hydration, antibacterial prophylaxis, and undergoing additional laboratory tests. Imaging tests with contrast are scheduled for a better assessment of his clinical condition. These tests are currently being conducted."

The incident comes six years after he was seriously injured in a stabbing attack during his 2018 presidential campaign.

He also revealed his net worth as $128,566, a decision that is different from those of past leaders.

The president also ordered all government officials to declare their assets by March 24, 2025. Those who fail to comply will face legal action.

He also banned officials from doing business with the state to stop corruption.

He promised to improve healthcare in the country to deter people from travelling abroad for treatment.

His actions have earned him praise from many for his stance against corruption and his commitment to serving Burkina Faso’s citizens.

Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as president on March 21, following the passing of former leader Hage Geingob. Her appointment not only breaks new ground for Namibia but also reflects a growing push for gender equality in leadership across Africa.

More than 60% of the ministers in Nandi-Ndaitwah’s new government are women, holding key positions in finance, foreign affairs, health, education, and gender equality. This marks the first time a female-led administration in Namibia has also had a majority female cabinet.

The shift has been widely seen as a step forward for women in leadership. In an interview with BBC Africa, Nandi-Ndaitwah spoke about the challenges women face in politics, stating, "Women can also hold authority.”

"I was not elected because I am a woman, but on merit," she declared in her speech in the capital, Windhoek, as she took office in a ceremony attended by several African heads of state, including leaders from Angola, South Africa , and Tanzania.

The 72-year-old veteran politician succeeds outgoing president Nangolo Mbumba, 83, extending the rule of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which has governed Namibia since gaining independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. Nandi-Ndaitwah, who previously served as vice president, has been a key figure in Namibia’s politics and a long-time member of SWAPO.

Her inauguration, coinciding with Namibia’s 35th Independence Day celebrations, had to be moved from the Independence Stadium to the State House due to rare heavy rains, the AFP reports. The ceremony was marked by applause and ululations as Nandi-Ndaitwah, popularly known as "NNN," took the oath of office.

In a powerful moment before her speech, she called on past and present women leaders in the audience to stand, including Liberia’s Nobel Peace laureate and former president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Tanzania ’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan—the only other woman currently leading an African nation.

Namibia, a country rich in uranium and diamonds, is one of the world ’s leading producers of these valuable resources.

A High Court judge in Zimbabwe on Wednesday, March 12 adjourned the case of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who has been in custody since Feb. 24 over alleged incitement linked to interviews with a war veteran-turned-politician critical of the president. According to VOA , Mhlanga’s lawyers requested bail, but Justice Gibson Mandaza said more time was needed to review the case. His lawyer, Chris Mhike, said they await the court's next move, adding it would be “improper” to comment while proceedings are ongoing.

Hanke ranks Zimbabwe’s ZIG second worst in the world

Renowned economist Steve Hanke has ranked Zimbabwe’s ZiG currency as the second worst after Venezuela’s Bolivar. His analysis shows the ZiG lost 50% of its value against the US dollar over the past 10 months, largely due to inflation and lack of public trust. As reported by the New Zimbabwe , Though initially pegged at US$1: ZiG2.50, it now trades between ZiG33 and ZiG40 on the black market, far from the official US$1: ZiG26 rate. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe insists the currency remains viable, despite limited use in key sectors like fuel and passport payments.

Thousands jobless as Trump cuts $522 million aid to Zimbabwe

Thousands of Zimbabwean NGO and civil society workers have lost their jobs after major U.S. funding cuts under the Trump administration. Key sectors affected include HIV programmes, the arts, and humanitarian aid. The U.S. slashed 83% of USAID’s global budget, ending around 5,200 projects. In Zimbabwe alone, $388 million in ongoing USAID-funded initiatives have been abruptly halted, excluding indirect support from agencies like the World Food Programme, Zimeye reports.

Zimbabwe supply chain compromised by coerced cross-border drivers

Zimbabwean authorities are cracking down on truck drivers coerced by smugglers to transport contraband inland, putting transporters at risk of being penalized for carrying illegal goods. Freight News reports Mike Fitzmaurice of the Transit Assistance Bureau said smuggling often occurs at border points like Beitbridge, where drivers are bribed, and goods are sometimes brought in by people crossing the river on foot. He noted that while buses were once used for smuggling, authorities have since tightened controls.

Zimbabwe records 49 human-crocodile conflicts in two months, 9 killed, 11 injured

At least nine people have died and 11 others were injured in a surge of crocodile attacks over the past two months, according to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). The agency also reported the loss of 44 cattle and 60 goats in 49 cases of human-crocodile conflict. ZimParks has urged communities to stay vigilant near water bodies, especially during the rainy season, reports the New Zimbabwe .

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.

Investigators say the men were hired by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of former independent lawmaker Emmanuel Banda who allegedly paid them to harm the president using traditional charms and spells.

Local reports indicate that during a court session in Lusaka, four witnesses testified that the men had charms in a rented house.

Immigration officer George Mwale said Candunde admitted that Banda had hired them.

“He said he was recruited through Banda’s brother to use witchcraft against the president,” Mwale told the court .

Police say they found a live chameleon in a sealed bottle, 14 empty bottles with traditional medicine , an animal tail, and unknown powdered substances. Phiri admitted that some of the items belonged to him but denied using them for witchcraft. The suspects insisted they had legal documents allowing them to possess the items.

Authorities initially said the men were promised 2 million Zambian kwacha ($7,000) for the job, but the court later heard the real offer was 43 million kwacha.

Phiri and Candunde face charges of claiming to have knowledge of witchcraft, possessing charms, and cruelty to wild animals. The trial will continue on February 26.

On January 9, 2025, the Lebanese parliament elected General Joseph Aoun, the head of the army, as the country's 14th president. This election is seen as a significant step towards stabilising the nation, which has been grappling with economic and political crises.

General Aoun's election is notable for several reasons. Firstly, he is the first president since the 1990s not to be pre-approved by Tehran and Damascus, signalling a shift in Lebanon's political landscape and a weakening of Hezbollah's influence.

Secondly, his presidency is expected to focus on regaining the state's monopoly on the use of force and pursuing accountability and reforms.

His presidency has also been widely welcomed, ending a more than two-year vacancy that left the nation in a state of uncertainty.

However, if she fails to secure more than 50 per cent of the vote once all results are in later this week, she could be forced into a run-off election.

The election, held on November 27, faced significant delays due to technical difficulties and ballot paper shortages, with voting extended by three days at several polling stations.

These issues have led to disputes over the legitimacy of the election, with the main opposition party, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), rejecting the process as a "sham."

IPC’s candidate, Panduleni Itula, trails with 28 per cent of the vote, and the opposition has already announced plans to challenge the election results in court, citing numerous irregularities.

So far, results have been released for 79 of the 121 constituencies, with SWAPO also leading the National Assembly vote, holding 56.38 per cent of the vote against IPC’s 19.23 per cent. Namibia’s electoral commission reported a high voter turnout, with 73 per cent of the nearly 1.5 million registered voters casting their ballots.

The electoral commission has faced criticism for logistical issues such as ballot shortages and extended voting periods, which some opposition leaders claim undermined the electoral integrity.

Despite SWAPO’s long-standing governance since Namibia’s independence in 1990, dissatisfaction over high youth unemployment and social inequalities is driving a challenge to its political dominance.

The controversy surrounding the election's validity may lead to legal battles as opposition factions prepare to contest the results, fuelling a critical discourse regarding democracy in Namibia.

In a competitive election, Sandu defeated Alexandr Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor supported by the pro-Russian Socialists.

Moldovans in Chisinau reacted to pro-European President Maia Sandu winning the elections.

"I am very happy because I consider Maia Sandu to be our only chance for the youth to have a future and to remain here, a Moldovan student said.

Since applying for EU membership in 2022, Sandu has actively sought Western support, proposing extensive reforms aimed at combating corruption and attracting investment. She has framed EU accession as Moldova's "Marshall Plan," emphasizing its potential for economic recovery.

In her victory speech, Sandu hailed the election as a "lesson in democracy," asserting that "freedom, truth, and justice have prevailed." She thanked her supporters for their "honest vote," emphasising the importance of Moldova's European aspirations.

The election followed a narrow referendum that saw just over 50% of voters support EU membership, a move Sandu has pursued more aggressively since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The EU's Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Sandu on her re-election, praising her resilience against external challenges. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed her, noting that democracy had triumphed over attempts at interference.

The election process was marred by allegations of Russian meddling. Moldovan authorities reported various attempts to destabilise the electoral process, including accusations of vote-buying schemes targeting expatriates in countries like Belarus and Turkey. Cyberattacks and bomb threats also disrupted out-of-country voting.

Turnout for the runoff was notably higher than in the first round held on October 20, where Sandu led with 42.5% compared to Stoianoglo’s 26%. However, despite her overall win, Sandu faced challenges in the territories of Moldova, particularly in pro-Russian regions like Transnistria, where discontent with the ruling party remains strong.