A counter-demonstration organised by Southampton Stand Up Against Racism also took place. Police maintained a separation between the two groups before the counter-protest dispersed.

The demonstrations followed the sentencing of 23-year-old Vickrum Digwa to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 21 years, for the murder of Henry Nowak in Southampton last December.

The case drew national attention after police bodycam footage emerged showing Nowak telling officers he had been stabbed while being detained at the scene. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has since called for an urgent review of laws governing the carrying of bladed articles for religious and ceremonial purposes, saying mistakes made during the incident should be examined.

Tensions were further heightened by a knife attack in Belfast on Monday in which a man was seriously injured after being slashed in the head and neck. Video of the incident circulated widely on social media .

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the attack as “sickening.” Police arrested a 30-year-old Sudanese national in connection with the Belfast attack and said there was currently no evidence to suggest it was terrorism-related.

According to police, the suspect travelled from Sudan to Paris before entering Ireland through Dublin and later moving to Belfast, where he sought asylum and was granted permission to remain.

Ayrton Condorhuayra, president of the National Multisectoral Committee of Bolivia, urged President Rodrigo Paz to use emergency powers to address the crisis.

“To the president, I say: Rodrigo, you have the people's approval. Declare a state of emergency,” Condorhuayra told the crowd.

He also called for the resignation of Vice President Edman Lara and demanded the arrest of former president Evo Morales, accusing him of being behind the protests and road blockades that have disrupted transport and supply chains across the country.

Participants at the rally said the blockades were causing shortages of food, medicine , oxygen and other essential goods.

“As a citizen of La Paz, we are not willing to continue with these critical days,” said Eva Oporto. “We cannot continue with this lack of food, health supplies and oxygen.”

Another resident appealed to authorities to act, citing growing hardship among families and concerns over access to healthcare.

The demonstration came a day after President Paz signed legislation regulating states of emergency, granting authorities powers that include deploying the military to clear blocked transport routes.

Bolivia has faced weeks of protests and road blockades that have disrupted the movement of goods and fuel in several regions. Despite mounting pressure, Paz has reaffirmed his intention to remain in office until the end of his term in 2030.

At the same time, another group of demonstrators, including farmers, miners and workers linked to trade union organisations, marched through the streets of La Paz demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz.

Protesters also criticised remarks made by Rodrigo Paz during the 217th anniversary of Sucre’s liberation movement on Monday, where he said that “a minority” cannot govern, referring to groups calling for his removal.

The protests against Rodrigo Paz’s government have entered their fourth week and have resulted in blockades on major roads, disrupting the supply of fuel, food and medical supplies in several cities across Bolivia.

Speaking from the historic Palacio Quemado in La Paz, Paz said the government needed to improve its ability to respond to public concerns during Bolivia’s worsening economic and social crisis.

The announcement came as demonstrations and transport blockades continued in La Paz, El Alto, and other regions. Protesters are demanding action over shortages of fuel and food, rising living costs, and the broader economic situation.

Paz appealed to demonstrators to allow humanitarian corridors for the delivery of essential supplies to hospitals and markets.

“To ask those who are at the blockades that this humanitarian corridor is oxygen in hospitals, it is food in our cities, they do not deserve this punishment,” he stated.

The president also criticised what he described as false information circulating online and among opposition groups regarding alleged government plans to impose new taxes and privatisations.

He also referred to deaths reported during the unrest and warned that those responsible for violence would face legal action.

“There are three dead because of the blockades. They are not from the national government; they are blockades. And the government is extending diverse options in order to generate dialogue. Vandals and those who have debts with justice , sooner or later, will have to face justice,” he said.

The speech took place under heavy security, with police and military personnel guarding key government buildings and diplomatic offices in central La Paz, including the Legislative Palace.

Bolivian truck driver Miguel Mamani said he had been stranded for ten days because of the ongoing unrest.

Mamani added that many drivers were facing shortages of food, water , medicine, and sanitary facilities while waiting at the border.

Bolivian trader Maciel Herrera also said she had been stranded for ten days and criticised those organising the protests.

“We want to work. We need to earn a living. Many people live day to day, and many families have been sleeping on the street with their children ,” she said.

The Departmental Chamber of Transport of La Paz said earlier this week that around 5,000 heavy trucks remained stranded on Bolivian roads because of protests and roadblocks that have continued for more than a week.

Demonstrators have blocked several key transport routes, including international corridors linking Bolivia with Peru and Chile, as part of growing protests demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. The demonstrations were triggered by opposition to the government’s economic reform measures.

May Day rallies are held every year on May 1 in France and across the world , with workers and unions using the occasion to demand better wages, improved working conditions, and expanded social protections. In Paris, this year’s inter-union march was expected to move from Place de la République to Place de la Nation.

The demonstrations come amid renewed tensions over workers’ rights in France, including opposition from unions to proposed changes affecting work rules on the May 1 public holiday.

SAFTU National Spokesperson Newton Masuku said the mobilisation was held under the theme: “Unite the employed and the unemployed, fight the jobs bloodbath, fight austerity, and fight illicit trading.”

“This is a call that we are making to the government , that it must intervene against this unemployment,” Masuku told Viory.

He said that although the union had submitted formal memorandums, the march was also aimed at strengthening internal mobilisation among workers.

“The petitioning of the government is merely a formality,” Masuku said. “But in actual fact, it provides us with an opportunity to speak to our membership and therefore to disseminate our ideas on how we think the economy should be sorted out.”

Masuku added that the May Day activities were intended to raise awareness among union members about what he called the “misery of the system.”

Protesters also raised concerns about recent amendments to labour laws, which they said were weakening protections originally designed to safeguard workers.

“We decided to celebrate May Day since last year when we were fighting against the amendments of the labour laws, which is a direct attack on workers,” one protester said.

The protester added that while unions were becoming weaker, capital was becoming more organised.

Footage from the capital showed groups of protesters marching through central Nairobi as police vehicles moved in and several people were detained. Residents said the anger was being driven by record pump prices and the wider cost-of-living squeeze, with transport costs rising sharply for ordinary Kenyans.

Many businesses remained open, but there were reports of blockades and clashes in parts of the central business district before police dispersed the crowds. The demonstrations came despite President William Ruto’s recent insistence that protests would not lower prices and that the focus should be on finding practical solutions.

The protests unfolded against the backdrop of a wider global energy shock linked to the war in the Middle East and restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The International Energy Agency has described the disruption as “the greatest threat to global energy security in history,” with oil supply and tanker movements severely affected.

Demonstrators gathered across Imphal West chanting for justice and calling on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene, restore stability and address their grievances. Many also demanded stronger action against armed groups and criticised the role of central security forces, as anger grows over repeated incidents of violence.

Lebanese officials have signalled openness to a pause in military activity—if not a full ceasefire—ahead of planned talks with Israel. The initiative reflects growing pressure to contain escalating violence along the border, as diplomatic efforts intensify. Authorities stressed that halting hostilities could create conditions for meaningful negotiations, although divisions remain internally over how to approach Israel. The talks are seen as a rare opportunity to de-escalate a conflict that has rapidly worsened in recent weeks. However, the absence of consensus within Lebanon complicates the government’s position. The outcome will likely depend on both regional dynamics and international mediation efforts.

Marco Rubio to join historic Lebanon–Israel talks

Senior US officials, including Marco Rubio, are set to participate in high-level talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington. The meeting marks the first direct engagement between the two sides in decades, underscoring the urgency of the crisis. According to reports, discussions will focus on securing a ceasefire and addressing broader security concerns, particularly the role of armed groups. Washington’s involvement highlights the international dimension of the conflict and efforts to broker stability. However, expectations remain cautious given entrenched positions on both sides. The talks come amid ongoing violence and humanitarian concerns.

Government bans non-state weapons in Beirut

The Lebanese government has moved to ban the presence of non-state weapons in Beirut, reinforcing its authority over security matters. The decision forms part of broader efforts to assert state control and limit the influence of armed groups such as Hezbollah. Officials emphasised that all military activity must fall under state institutions, signalling a significant policy shift. The measure follows escalating tensions and internal criticism over the role of militias in dragging Lebanon into conflict. Analysts warn that enforcing the ban could prove challenging given Hezbollah’s entrenched position. Nonetheless, the move reflects increasing pressure for centralised control

Civilian toll mounts as Israeli airstrikes continue

The number of casualties in Lebanon has surpassed 1,900 as Israeli airstrikes continue across the country, according to media reports. The bombardment has caused widespread destruction in urban and rural areas, displacing large numbers of civilians. Hospitals and emergency services are under severe strain as they respond to the growing humanitarian crisis. The escalation follows renewed hostilities linked to the broader regional conflict involving Iran and allied groups. International actors have raised concerns over the scale of the violence and its impact on civilians. Despite diplomatic efforts, there are few signs of an immediate de-escalation.

Hezbollah tensions rise amid protests and army warnings

Tensions within Lebanon are intensifying as Hezbollah faces growing opposition and protests. Demonstrations have erupted against the group’s actions, which many blame for drawing the country deeper into conflict. In response, the Lebanese army has warned it may intervene firmly to maintain order and uphold state authority. The standoff highlights deep divisions within Lebanese society over Hezbollah’s role and influence. Political leaders are increasingly under pressure to balance internal stability with external threats. The situation remains volatile as both political and security tensions continue to escalate.

Sadrist Movement official Sabah al-Saadi said the demonstrations reflected Iraqis’ desire for peace, freedom and dignity, while rejecting aggression, colonialism and foreign domination in the region. Another protester, Sheikh Muhammad al-Atwani, denounced attacks on what he described as safe areas, including schools sheltering families and children, and reaffirmed opposition to occupation.

The protests followed a statement issued by al-Sadr earlier in the week urging Iraqis to take to the streets to condemn what he called “Zionist-American aggression” and to call for peace . Demonstrators said Iraq and the wider region wanted stability, but rejected what they described as U.S.-Israeli hegemony against Arab and Muslim peoples.

Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters later praised Iraq’s position, thanking in particular the Popular Mobilisation forces, resistance factions and the Shiite community for their support. It also said Iraq would be exempt from any Iranian transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional tensions have soared since the United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran on February 28, amid diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear and missile programmes.

The Gezi protests began in June 2013 as a small environmental sit-in against plans to redevelop Istanbul’s Gezi Park. The movement quickly grew into nationwide demonstrations against then-prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his government, drawing hundreds of thousands of people into the streets.

At the time, the government described the protests as an attempt to destabilise the state. Critics, however, saw them as a largely peaceful expression of public frustration over governance and civil liberties 

In Barim’s case, prosecutors accused her of encouraging actors she managed to join the protests, alleging she played a role in efforts to undermine the government . She was briefly released in October due to health concerns, but was re-arrested the following day.

Turkey’s continued prosecutions linked to the Gezi protests reflect the government’s long-standing position that the events were not spontaneous demonstrations but part of a coordinated effort to challenge state authority and consequently overthrow the government.

Police confronted protesters, leading to multiple arrests and others being affected by the use of pepper spray. 

President Herzog’s visit to Australia includes commemorations for the victims of last year’s Bondi Beach mass shooting and a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. He is scheduled to return to Israel on Thursday, February 12.

According to multiple timelines and analyses , the clash between state forces and demonstrators after the High Court reinstated controversial job quota rules widened public anger. Clashes escalated into what many have described as a mass, pro-democracy movement that ultimately pushed Hasina out of power in August 2024.

The protests did not just shake the streets, they reshaped the state. Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country in August 2024, ending her fifteen-year rule, and an interim government under Muhammad Yunus was formed.

This shift was in large part due to sustained public pressure, especially from youth and student networks, that exposed deep distrust in the status quo and ignited demands for democratic reform and government accountability.

The February 12, 2026, general election is seen not as a routine democratic exercise but as a key step in responding to those demands.

Bangladeshis widely regard this vote as a chance to reset the political process after years marked by contested elections, allegations of authoritarianism, and political repression under Hasina’s government. Many citizens hope the polls will restore civil liberties, strengthen institutions, and respond to calls for accountability raised during the protests.

The interim administration, under intense pressure to deliver a credible electoral timeline, has moved the election up as part of responding to public expectations that political change should culminate in a legitimate parliamentary mandate.

The protests have reshaped the political landscape in ways that will influence voter behaviour and party positioning:

For many voters, the upcoming election is not simply a choice between candidates; it is a referendum on change itself: whether Bangladesh’s democratic institutions can be strengthened to reflect the demands that first propelled thousands into the streets.

Protesters held Iraqi flags, setting fire to images of Trump and the US flag. The demonstration took place under heightened security measures.

The protest followed Trump’s comments on his Truth Social platform, where he warned that “Iraq could make a grave mistake by re-electing Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister.” He also threatened to withdraw US aid to Iraq, adding that without it “there will be no chance for success, prosperity, or freedom.”

In response, al-Maliki stated on Wednesday evening through his official X account. “We categorically reject the blatant American interference in Iraq's internal affairs,” he wrote.

The 75-year-old Nouri al-Maliki, a senior Iraqi political figure, served as Prime Minister from 2006 to 2014 and Vice President twice, from 2014 to 2015 and from 2016 to 2018.

Three years after the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq that resulted in the execution of long‑time leader Saddam Hussein, al‑Maliki became the country’s first full‑term prime minister in the post‑Saddam era. 

The demonstration reflected ongoing anger over Bolsonaro’s recent conviction and a broader backlash against Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Protest imagery included symbolic representations criticising the judiciary and government, underscoring persistent political polarisation in Brazil since Bolsonaro left office in 2023.

As if the so-called “towel-gate” scandal during the final game hadn’t generated enough tension between the two teams, coach Pape Thiaw’s decision to have Senegal’s players walk off the field in protest of a contentious Video Assisted Referee (VAR) awarded penalty has left fans divided.

Across social media, many who support Senegal’s walk-off believe it is justified as they point to moments throughout the tournament when they felt Morocco had been given undue advantage by referees and being spared punishment even for fouls they committed.

The fans have criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for poor officiating and criticised FIFA president Gianni Infantino for taking sides by calling out Senegal for their walkout, but not the Moroccan fans.

“Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands,” Infantino wrote on Instagram as part of his message congratulating Senegal for their win and Morocco’s hosting of the tournament. “We strongly condemn the behaviour of some 'supporters' as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right.”

Since the tournament wrapped, Pape Thiaw has apologised for calling on his players to walk off. The Moroccan football federation, on the other hand, has hinted at its plans to pursue legal action over their final match with Senegal, indicating that the 15-minute delay in play impacted the result.

While CAF has condemned the “unacceptable behaviour from some players and officials” in a statement, it has not stated what form of punishment, if any, Senegal would face. CAF’s statement noted that it was “reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”

The question on many minds, therefore, is what kind of punishment Senegal is likely to face.

Many commentators have pointed to FIFA regulations that call for a docking of 3 points from the team that walks off during a match. That rule references when a team walks off the pitch and decides not to continue the game. In this case, Senegal returned to finish the game. So do they lose three points?

Sports journalist Benedict Owusu says it is not likely, as this was the final match of the tournament.

But will there be punishment? It is highly likely that there would be some form of punishment based on CAF’s review of footage from the match, and those who are identified as culprits. Benedict explains that punishment in this case could be monetary .

“Potential punishments from CAF could be heavy financial fines, long-term suspensions for coaching staff, and key players who disrupted the game. It could be 4–6 matches and potential disqualification from future tournaments.”

That is likely to be the extent of the punishment, as this was a CAF-related event and not FIFA. “The only time a punishment from a CAF tournament is carried over to a FIFA tournament is for player sanctions. So, for instance, if a player was red-carded in the final or in the qualifiers, that player will serve the ban should their team qualify for the World Cup,” Benedict adds.

While CAF pores over video footage of the final match before reaching a decision, the Teranga Lions of Senegal can focus their energies on the upcoming World Cup this summer. The only worry they may have would be about the ever-changing and expanding US immigration policy. Senegal and the Ivory Coast, which have both qualified for the World Cup, were among the 15 African nations slapped with partial bans from entering the United States in December.

It is highly unlikely that Senegal will play their World Cup matches in half-empty stadiums as there is a sizeable Senegalese population in the United States. That aside, the large Senegalese diaspora in France, especially those with French passports, will be able to travel to the US, probably with less scrutiny than those with Senegalese passports.

In African football, the fans have always been the 12 th player on the team. For many fans, being able to watch their national team play in person is akin to a religious experience that is miles away from the television experience. It is why, despite the many challenges with air travel in Africa, thousands of fans still found their way to Morocco to support their national teams.

Unfortunately, that may not be the case this summer as nearly 30 African countries face full or partial travel bans to the US. But whether at the stadium or on television, the one thing that is certain for now is that the Teranga Lions are the new champions of African football, and many would look up to them for a repeat of what happened in Rabat. Not the walkout, but victory in all their matches and possibly best Morocco’s 2022 semi-final finish at the global tournament.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Nii Akrofi Smart-Abbey is an award-winning international journalist, writer, and host of the A55 Podcast. Nii Akrofi has worked with local and international media in Ghana, Congo and the United States. He has contributed to news platforms like Zenger News, Africanews, W42ndST, and foreignpresscorrespondents.com.

According to Al-Ansari, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, has been in touch with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi. He also referred to “the call reported by the media between the US envoy and the Iranian Foreign Minister.”

Just days ago, US President Donald Trump , during a press briefing, disclosed that he had been contacted by Tehran; however, he has subsequently posted on his social media platform Truth Social, encouraging Iranian protesters to "take over your institutions" and promising that "help is on its way." Coining a new acronym "MIGA!!" which means Make Iran Great Again.

What began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar has quickly expanded far beyond the capital. Demonstrations are now reported in major cities, including Mashhad, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Kerman, with unrest affecting nearly all 31 provinces.

People from across Iranian society have joined the protests. Shopkeepers, students, oil workers, retirees and low-income families are taking to the streets, driven by anger over soaring prices, a collapsing currency and long-standing political failures.

Iran’s economy is at the centre of the crisis. Inflation has surged, the rial has fallen to historic lows, and the cost of essentials such as food and medicine has risen sharply. For many households, wages have failed to keep pace, turning daily life into a struggle for affordability.

As the rial continues to lose value and budget pressures deepen, unrest has spread beyond traditional economic centres. Protests have reached university campuses, suburban neighbourhoods and rural towns.

Student demonstrators are no longer chanting only about prices, but also demanding greater freedom and political change, signalling a shift from economic protest to broader opposition to the state.

Unlike previous uprisings, this movement has no single leader. It is decentralised, drawing support from a wide cross-section of society, and has been amplified in part by calls for mass action from figures outside Iran, including members of the diaspora.

Human rights organisations and international observers report hundreds of arrests and about 62 deaths, including children in some documented cases.

As demonstrations intensify, the government has moved to restrict information. Internet and mobile phone services have been disrupted or shut down in multiple regions, limiting communication among protesters and making independent reporting increasingly difficult.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Friday, January 9, condemned the protests and accused protesters of acting on behalf of U.S. President Donald Trump during a televised broadcast.

Trump has, in turn threathened to have Iran pay dearly if more civilians or protesters are killed during the demonstrations.

He shared with a reporter that Iran has “been told very strongly … that if they do that, they’re going to have to pay hell.”

What happens next will depend on whether the state can contain the unrest or whether economic pressure and public anger continue to push Iran toward deeper instability.

Chile has launched its largest-ever public–private partnership to exploit lithium, a critical mineral central to electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy tech, potentially surpassing Argentina’s production footprint. The initiative, backed by state and private capital, seeks to attract long-term investment and strengthen Chile’s position in global supply chains, especially amid surging demand from China. Officials argue the country’s abundant lithium reserves and improved regulatory framework make it an ideal candidate for large-scale development. The project aligns with national economic diversification goals while prompting discussions on environmental safeguards and community consultation. Chile’s move reflects broader competition among South American lithium producers for foreign partnerships and market leadership.

Wildfires scorch over 800 hectares; 158 communes on high alert

A wave of wildfires in central and southern Chile has burned more than 800 hectares, including significant forest areas in Las Condes and surrounding regions. The National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) and emergency services report that fires are active across 158 communes, triggering widespread deployment of firefighters, aircraft and community evacuation warnings. Extreme heat and dry conditions have exacerbated fire behaviour, complicating containment efforts. Local authorities activated the “Red Button” emergency alert in multiple municipalities to coordinate rapid response and resource mobilisation. Residents have been urged to follow safety protocols and stay informed on closures and air quality updates. The government has also appealed for inter-regional assistance as the season’s fire risk peaks.

Education regulator mandates “safe classroom” procedures for private schools

Chile’s Superintendency of Education has ordered private schools to adopt “aula segura” (safe classroom) procedures to address incidents of violence , bullying and disruptive behaviour. The directive requires institutions to establish clear protocols for identifying and managing safety risks, protecting students and staff, and reporting serious cases to authorities. The move comes amid rising public concern over school safety and disciplinary consistency across educational settings. Regulators emphasised that safe classroom measures must align with national education standards and child protection norms. Schools must now review internal policies and train personnel to meet the new requirements. Advocates say the policy will create more structured, equitable and enforceable safeguards, while some private school associations seek clarity on implementation timelines and resource support.

Johannes Kaiser outlines “red lines” for potential role in Kast’s government

Johannes Kaiser, leader of Chile’s National Libertarian Party (PNL) and former presidential candidate, met with representatives linked to president‑elect José Antonio Kast to present a set of “red lines”, non‑negotiable conditions for his party’s cooperation with the incoming administration. Kaiser said his group is available to be part of the future government if the conditions that protect its identity and core principles are accepted, framing the lines as a framework for operational cooperation rather than personal appointments. He emphasised that discussions will continue soon to define the scope of possible collaboration, including policy priorities that must be respected. The stipulations reportedly include opposition to the continuation of certain gender and sexual education programmes, reflecting ideological priorities of his libertarian platform. The deliberations are ongoing as both sides gauge how the PNL might support Kast’s agenda without compromising its political identity.

PS and FA defend Communist Party’s mobilisation call against Kast

Chile’s Socialist Party (PS) and Broad Front (FA) have publicly defended a call by the Communist Party (PC) to mobilise against presidential candidate José Antonio Kast, framing protests as a legitimate democratic expression. Facing criticism from opponents who labelled the mobilisation incitement, PS and FA leaders argued that peaceful citizen action addresses deep political divisions and responds to concerns over Kast’s policy agenda on social rights and inequalities. The debate has intensified in public discourse, with voices on both sides warning about polarisation and the tone of campaign rhetoric. PS and FA officials stressed the importance of respecting collective mobilisation within constitutional bounds, while urging all political actors to avoid incitement to violence. The episode reflects broader ideological battles shaping Chile’s electoral environment.

“You can hide bodies, but you cannot hide funerals,” Dr Nchemba said, adding that it would be impossible for thousands of people to die in Dar es Salaam within a few days without leaving visible traces.

The Prime Minister also criticised what he described as attempts to sensationalise the unrest, saying some images shared online were taken from conflict zones outside Tanzania and falsely presented as evidence of events inside the country. He warned that spreading unverified information about loss of life was dangerous and could fuel further tension.

According to Dr Nchemba, the government has established a presidential committee to investigate what happened during and after the protests. He said families who are still searching for missing relatives will have their cases reviewed as part of that process.

Despite the government’s rejection of the 10,000-death claim, authorities have not yet released an official death toll. A full account of casualties and damage is expected once the special investigation commission completes its work.

The protests erupted after the October 29 elections and were followed by a heavy security response. While the government maintains that order was restored lawfully, opposition groups and rights activists continue to raise concerns about the use of force and the lack of transparent information on casualties.

As unrest intensified, CNE councillor Cossette López warned that the situation at the Electoral Logistics Centre had become “critical”. The protest formed part of a broader wave of demonstrations in the capital, with tyres also set alight earlier on Monday along a key road linking Tegucigalpa to northern Honduras. Similar scenes were reported last week outside CNE headquarters.

The protests come amid repeated delays in the vote count, which has been halted several times and accompanied by accusations of irregularities. With 99.80 per cent of polling stations counted, National Party candidate Nasry Asfura, backed by Donald Trump , is leading with 40.54 per cent of the vote, followed by Liberal Party candidate Salvador Nasralla on 39.19 per cent, and Libre’s Rixi Moncada on 19.29 per cent.

An independent cleaning worker told Viory reporters, “They have to fulfil the union and labour agreements and mainly respect the work being done, but well, we already did our part, it has to be respected, and they have to give us our place.” The protest disrupted the city’s normal routines, with more than a dozen trucks unloading waste onto sidewalks, fires prompting a response from firefighters, and demonstrators damaging government property. Local medical teams treated several people at the scene, though no serious injuries were reported.

Residents described the event as alarming. Juan Castillo, a neighbour: “There is a message for the government to adjust to their petitions, to reach a common agreement and avoid all these kinds of jokes, it is ugly.” The protest reflects broader tensions in Mexico over labour rights and union representation, highlighting how workers’ demands can escalate into public demonstrations when official channels stall.

Footage from Sunday shows crowds gathering to watch the torching of the Trump-themed effigy, accompanied by fireworks as part of the celebration. For many participants, the act carries symbolic meaning. With many participants viewing the burning of a small devil figure as a way to cast out misfortune and start the year renewed, a sentiment often expressed by regular piñata buyers who take part in the tradition.

For artisan families, the event is also a vital economic moment. Among them is Marco Antonio González, owner of ‘Piñatas Tom y Jerry’, known for crafting multiple versions of Trump piñatas, including models dressed as ICE and FBI agents. González said he began producing Trump figures at the start of the president’s term “because of the disastrous policies he carries out,” describing the effigy as a portrayal of “the highest disastrous authority of deportations”.

Although rooted in Catholic tradition, the Burning of the Devil has evolved into a cultural space where creativity, political expression and craftsmanship converge. The ritual continues to serve both as a symbolic cleansing ceremony and as a platform for social commentary within Guatemala’s end-of-year celebrations.

Article 143 of Kenya’s constitution states that neither civil nor criminal proceedings can be “instituted in any court against the President or the person performing the functions of that office during their tenure of office in respect of anything done or not done in the exercise of their powers under this Constitution.”

The case was filed in 2024 by 13 activists and the Kenya Bora Tuitakayo Citizens Association, who want the electoral commission compelled to hold a referendum on whether Ruto should be removed for alleged incompetence, abuse of power and violations of the Constitution. They accuse the president of more than 30 breaches, including ethnically skewed appointments, misuse of executive authority and the controversial deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces during the June 2024 Gen-Z protests .

Ruto’s legal team, led by Senior Counsel Fred Ngatia, argued that the petition was unconstitutional because a sitting president cannot be sued directly. The court agreed, striking out Ruto as a respondent and transferring his representation to the Attorney General. Ngatia also insisted that the Constitution provides only one legal route for removing a president, impeachment by Parliament and warned against what he called attempts to “bypass structured constitutional processes”.

The petitioners dispute that view, saying the Constitution also grants citizens sovereign power to seek political accountability through direct democratic means, including a referendum. Their lawyer, Kibe Mungai, said the activists were not asking the court to oust the president but to declare whether he violated the Constitution, a finding they argue could justify a public vote.

The judge declined to stop the case, leaving open the question of whether a popular referendum can supplement or override parliamentary impeachment procedures. The petitioners now plan to request a larger bench to hear the matter, citing its constitutional relevance.

The protest highlighted growing concern among environmental groups and civil society organisations, who argue the changes significantly weaken safeguards designed to protect forests, rivers and Indigenous territories. One demonstrator captured the sentiment of the rally, saying to Viory: “We are here today in the hot sun, always remembering that we are in a climate crisis and we cannot let vetoes as important as Lula's be overturned. We cannot let bills like this pass. We cannot let laws that make environmental law more flexible.”

At the heart of the dispute is Congress’s decision on Thursday to cancel 52 vetoes that Lula had applied to the 2025 Environmental Licensing Law . The vetoes were intended to maintain strict requirements obliging companies to prove that proposed projects would not cause environmental harm before receiving authorisation. Environmental advocates warn that removing these provisions amounts to a sweeping rollback of protections and reduces mandatory consultations with Indigenous and Afro-Brazilian communities.

Supporters of the new law, however, argue that it streamlines bureaucracy, accelerates infrastructure and development projects, and strengthens Brazil’s competitiveness. They insist the updated framework maintains a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility, a claim strongly rejected by protesters, who say the decision represents a profound step backwards for climate and environmental governance in Brazil.

Speaking at the event, Pañuelos Negros founder Asuncion Benedict defended the group’s demands. "The three causes are the moral and economic recognition of the veterans, of all the veterans, of the war against subversion, the moral and economic recognition of the civilian victims and of the armed forces, of the war against subversion. And especially in this event, we ask for the release and vindication of the political prisoners or captive patriots or prisoners of war, prisoners of subversion, as we call them," she said.

Their march, however, drew swift condemnation from human rights organisations, social movements, and citizens who mobilised to reject any attempt to legitimise figures associated with state violence during the dictatorship. Many of those opposing the protest described it as a direct affront to the memory of the victims, emphasising that they would not tolerate what they see as efforts to rehabilitate perpetrators.

The counter-demonstrators invoked the memory of the disappeared and victims of torture, framing their presence as a defence of historical truth and justice . Tension rose at several points as chants and banners from both sides confronted each other across the plaza.

Security forces remained deployed throughout the afternoon to prevent clashes, while traffic around the area was partially restricted as the demonstrations unfolded.

“After hearing the government’s announcement that we could resume work today, we thanked God that we’re back to our jobs, even though things aren’t quite the same yet," said Emmanuel Adenia, a motorcycle taxi driver. " People are still a bit fearful here and there, but it’s not too bad because we’ve been sitting at home for nearly a week without work,” he told Viory.

“Customers are still a bit fearful, coming one by one, but we are satisfied because that’s just the reality of things right now," said Ester Joel Shangarai, a local vegetable seller.

The government lifted curfews and partially restored internet access this week, easing restrictions imposed during a period of nationwide shutdown. The unrest erupted following the announcement by Tanzania’s electoral commission that President Samia had secured 98 percent of the vote, a result widely rejected by opposition groups as fraudulent.

Despite a heavy security presence, Samia was sworn in for a second term on Monday. Opposition leaders claim that more than 800 people have died in clashes related to the election.

Footage by Viory from the scene showed elderly protesters waving banners denouncing Milei and accusing the government of stripping away hard-earned rights. “They want to take it all, all the rights. The rights we've fought for so many years,” said one protester. “I'm 67 years old and I've been through it all, and we keep fighting in the streets just the same,” he added.

Tensions have continued to rise since Milei’s La Libertad Avanza coalition secured victory in last week’s elections . Many demonstrators voiced concern that the government’s response to social unrest had grown increasingly repressive. “Now that he won, it’s going to get worse. But why do they repress us?” asked another retiree at the scene.

The protest was the latest in a growing wave of opposition to the president’s economic policies, which include major public spending cuts aimed at controlling inflation and addressing Argentina’s long-standing debt crisis. However, critics argue these measures disproportionately impact the country’s most vulnerable populations, including pensioners.

Organisers have called for a nationwide mobilisation next week, hoping to rally more than 100,000 people across multiple cities to demand the restoration of pensions and essential services.

A video by Viory showed a column of smoke rising over the city. The protests, led by opposition supporters, called for political reforms and transparency in the electoral process.

Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, and authorities have imposed a curfew. Internet disruptions were also reported nationwide.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, expected to secure re-election, has faced accusations of stifling dissent after key opposition candidates were disqualified. Human rights groups have condemned recent crackdowns on free speech and political activity.

Several political parties and civil society groups in Tunisia have publicly condemned what they describe as an “attack” on the headquarters of the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT). The incident has intensified existing tensions between the government and the country’s largest trade union, which has historically been a pillar of Tunisia’s social dialogue. The condemnation reflects growing concern over the government’s treatment of organised labour and its potential impact on Tunisia’s fragile political stability.

Political parties and organisations say they are fully supportive of Gabes' protests

Political and civic organisations have voiced strong support for ongoing protests in Gabes, a southern industrial city plagued by pollution and unemployment. Demonstrators have demanded urgent government intervention to address the environmental and economic crises in the region. The solidarity statements from political parties underline the national significance of the movement, as Gabes continues to symbolise broader frustrations over inequality and governance failures.

Parties and organisations denounce one-month suspension of ATFD activities

Women’s rights organisations and political parties have denounced the one-month suspension of the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women (ATFD). The suspension, ordered by authorities, has been criticised as part of a wider crackdown on civil society and gender rights activism. The ATFD, known for its decades-long advocacy for gender equality, has pledged to challenge the suspension and continue defending democratic freedoms.

Political parties and NGOs call on Tunisian diplomacy to act immediately regarding the Sumud Flotilla

In response to developments surrounding the Sumud Flotilla, Tunisian political parties and NGOs have urged the government to take swift diplomatic action . The flotilla, organised in solidarity with Palestinians, has reignited Tunisia’s long-standing commitment to the Palestinian cause. Activists argue that the Tunisian government must take a more assertive stance on international platforms to support humanitarian efforts and peace initiatives in Gaza.

Now there are widespread demonstrations across the country following the close of polls.

President Samia, who took office in 2021 following the death of former leader John Magufuli, is seeking her first full term. Since then, she has positioned herself as a reformer and bridge-builder, especially in international circles, but at home, her government has been criticised for systematically sidelining opposition figures and dissent.

The main opposition party, CHADEMA, has seen its most prominent leaders, including Tundu Lissu, being disqualified or detained in the run-up to the polls. The party’s vice chairperson, Tanzania Halima Mdee, has also faced legal pressure, while opposition rallies and media coverage have reportedly been restricted. These moves have left voters with limited choice and undermined the credibility of the democratic process.

United Nations Human Rights experts have expressed concern over “enforced disappearances, harassment of critics, and shrinking civic space,” warning that the political environment is becoming increasingly intolerant of dissent. In this context, the CCM’s overwhelming dominance - having been in power since independence in 1961 – appears set to continue largely unchallenged.

Despite these concerns, Samia has made new promises to address economic challenges, including youth unemployment, infrastructure development, and regional trade integration. Her administration has also pushed for reforms to attract foreign investment, framing the election as a mandate for stability and growth.

Meanwhile, as polls have closed, several hundred youth have begun demonstrations across the country, decrying the alleged lack of transparency in the voting process, internet shutdown across the country, among others.

Myriam Bregman, a prominent Left Front candidate for Buenos Aires, said the location was chosen as a deliberate “anti-imperialist gesture”. “We do not want to be another star on the Yankee flag,” she told supporters. “That is what Javier Milei is proposing, that Argentina becomes a colony of the United States , where the most important decisions are made abroad.”

Bregman accused Milei of prioritising US approval and International Monetary Fund support over national sovereignty, arguing that his economic policies deepen Argentina’s dependency on foreign capital. She also claimed that Washington’s influence aims to “sink the country for its own gain,” particularly amid Argentina’s ongoing struggle with inflation and debt.

The rally marked the close of campaigning ahead of Argentina’s legislative elections on October 26, in which half the seats in the Chamber of Deputies and a third of the Senate will be up for renewal. More than 36 million Argentines are eligible to vote, both at home and overseas, in an election that could reshape the balance of power in a deeply polarised political landscape.

The protests, organised largely through social media and supported by labour unions, have become the latest chapter in Peru’s cycle of political instability. Demonstrators carried banners reading “Fuera Jeri” (“Jeri Out”) and “Marcha por el Futuro” (“March for the Future”), accusing the political class of operating as a “mafia pact” disconnected from ordinary citizens. “We are marching because there is a corrupt and criminal system", said one protester to Viory.

The unrest follows the impeachment of former president Dina Boluarte last week, after Congress declared her “morally unfit” to govern. Her removal paved the way for Jeri, then head of Congress, to assume the presidency — a move that many Peruvians see as unconstitutional and emblematic of a system resistant to reform. Critics argue that the new administration offers no real change from the entrenched political elite that has dominated Peru for years.

The death of 32-year-old rapper Eduardo Ruiz, known artistically as Trvko, has added urgency and outrage to the protests. Ruiz was shot during the clashes in Plaza Francia, allegedly by a police officer. His killing has turned him into a symbol for a generation demanding justice , transparency, and a new political order.

As anger simmers, Peru’s Generation Z appears to be stepping into a leadership role in the country’s political awakening. For many of them, the fight is not only against corruption but also against a sense of hopelessness that has taken root after years of failed governments. Whether their movement can translate protest into lasting political change remains an open question — but the message from Lima’s streets is clear: the country’s youth are no longer willing to stay silent.

Viory reports that shortly after the vote, Colonel Michael Randrianirina of an elite military unit appeared on national television to proclaim that the armed forces had assumed control of the state. He announced the suspension of key constitutional institutions, including the Senate and the Constitutional Court, while installing a transitional authority expected to govern for up to two years before a national referendum and elections . The National Assembly, however, will remain in place during the transition. 

Earlier in the day, President Rajoelina condemned the developments as an attempted coup, urging calm in a televised address. Reports later emerged that he had fled the country aboard a French military aircraft, though his whereabouts remain unconfirmed.

The move comes amid weeks of widespread unrest across Madagascar, driven largely by young protesters angry over corruption, rising living costs, unemployment, and chronic shortages of power and water. The United Nations estimates that at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in recent clashes, although government officials dispute these figures.

Rajoelina, a former DJ-turned-politician, first came to power in 2009 after mass protests led to the ousting of then-President Marc Ravalomanana. He was re-elected in 2018 and again in 2023.

“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.

From Venezuela to Guatemala, Chile, and Ecuador, the date revealed the region’s shared struggle for identity, sovereignty, and cultural survival.

In Caracas, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro joined the “Great March for Peace and Sovereignty,” led by Indigenous communities in support of what he called the country’s fight against “imperialism.” Wearing a traditional headdress and addressing thousands in Plaza Venezuela, Maduro declared that Venezuela would never submit to foreign powers.

In Guatemala, the celebration took a different form — one of art and tradition. The capital hosted the ‘Encuentro de Conviteros’, a massive cultural parade that drew more than 3,000 dancers and musicians from 14 departments. Participants wore colourful Mayan dresses, feathered headdresses, and handcrafted armour inspired by pre-Hispanic iconography. Ana Stephany López López, one of the participants, said wearing traditional dress was an act of “resistance and empowerment.”

Meanwhile, in Santiago, Chile, the day was marked by tension. Demonstrations in support of Mapuche rights turned violent as police clashed with protesters near the University of Chile. The Mapuche, Chile’s largest Indigenous group, demanded the restitution of ancestral lands, an end to mining and forestry activities in their territories, and greater political autonomy.

Meanwhile, in Ecuador, the day coincided with massive protests against the government’s decision to eliminate the diesel subsidy. Thousands took to the streets of Quito, where police and military forces clashed with demonstrators led by Indigenous groups.

While the commemorations differed from country to country — the message was shared: Latin America ’s Indigenous peoples continue to stand against dispossession, cultural erasure, and external domination, asserting that their resistance is far from over.

“We are here repudiating the anti-health and anti-education policies of these disastrous government s of Milei and Cornejo,” said protester Celia, one of many who took to the streets in Mendoza to voice frustration over the government’s economic agenda.

But amid the tension, others expressed strong support for the president’s reforms. “Tired of all the people who have received things from above without working, and tired of the country we have, of how our children have been indoctrinated,” said Meliza Quiroga, a Milei supporter. “I think Milei is doing very well; that’s why I come to support him. We need more people in Congress who back his decisions.”

Both Celia and Meliza spoke to Viory, highlighting the stark divide that continues to define Argentina’s political landscape. While opponents denounce Milei’s cuts as destructive, his supporters see them as long-overdue corrections to years of mismanagement.

The president’s visit also included private meetings with business leaders and Governor Cornejo, who avoided commenting on the unrest. The clashes in Mendoza came just a day after similar incidents in Lomas de Zamora, where Milei was forced to leave an event amid violent protests — underscoring the volatility ahead of Argentina’s midterm elections scheduled for October 2025.

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.