Africa Local News Ghana Kwame Agbodza Asserts NDC's Majority Position in Parliament Drew Mcgee Nov 6, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Kwame Governs Agbodza Member of the Parliament of Ghana Kwame Governs Agbodza, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Adaklu Constituency in the Volta Region, recently emphasized his position as the Majority Chief Whip in Parliament. He stated that the NDC caucus plans to take the majority side when Parliament resumes on Thursday, November 7. Agbodza referred to Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration on October 17, which left four parliamentary seats vacant after their occupants decided to run as independent candidates. Agbodza confirmed at a rally in Adaklu that, in his view, these MPs had effectively vacated their seats under Article 97 and were no longer considered Members of Parliament. He stated, “I’ll be going to Parliament on Thursday as the Majority Chief Whip and I’ll come back as Majority Chief Whip.” The Speaker’s decision was based on a petition by Tamale South MP Haruna Iddrisu, who invoked Article 97 (1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution. As a result, the NDC lost one seat, bringing their count to 136, while the NPP lost three, leaving them with 135 seats, creating a level of uncertainty in the House. Those impacted included Amenfi Central’s MP, Peter Yaw Kwakye Ackah; Suhum’s Kojo Asante; Agona West’s Cynthia Morrison; and Andrew Amoakoh Asiamah of Fomena, who ran as an independent before aligning with the NPP for the upcoming election. However, on October 18, the Supreme Court paused the Speaker’s ruling. A five-member panel, led by Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, responded to an application by Majority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, arguing that the decision undermined the rights of constituents. The NDC caucus has since expressed its opposition, and Speaker Bagbin is taking steps to challenge the Supreme Court’s ruling. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Elections Edo Election Update: A Snapshot of the 2024 Governorship Race Alison Marsh Sep 21, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The Edo State governorship election on September 21, 2024, saw candidates from various parties, notably Monday Okpebholo (APC), Asue Ighodalo (PDP), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party), vying for office. As of late evening, around 90% of results were uploaded on INEC's IReV portal, indicating a strong process towards transparency. Social media, particularly X, reflected a mix of real-time updates and early indications of leads, with PDP showing a lead in some reports. However, no official winner was declared by the end of the day, with the collation still ongoing at INEC's state collation centre. The election was marked by significant voter turnout despite challenges like weather, showcasing the electorate's commitment to democracy in Edo State. Despite heavy rainfall, voters in Edo State demonstrated a high level of engagement, with Governor Godwin Obaseki commending the turnout as a testament to the people's commitment to democracy. The election saw the deployment of security forces to maintain peace, a move appreciated by observers and participants alike, ensuring that the process was largely peaceful across the state's 18 local government areas, 192 wards, and 4,519 polling units. The main contenders included Monday Okpebholo from APC, Asue Ighodalo representing PDP, and Olumide Akpata from the Labour Party. Voter sentiment, as echoed on platforms like X, seemed divided but with a strong undercurrent of hope for a leader who could foster development, transparency, and good governance. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Domestic Politics Ghana Court Lifts Ban, Allowing Joana Gyan Cudjoe to Run for Amenfi Central in Upcoming Election Alison Marsh Nov 11, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Joana Gyan Cudjoe CEO and Founder of GOLDEN EMPIRE LEGACY LIMITED The Sekondi High Court has lifted an injunction that barred Joana Gyan Cudjoe, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Amenfi Central, from running in the upcoming parliamentary election. This decision, made on November 11, follows a previous adjournment where the NDC requested the court to dismiss the disqualification and allow Ms. Cudjoe to proceed as their candidate. Justice George K. Gyan-Kontoh presided over the case. In an earlier session, Edudzie Tamakloe, one of Ms. Cudjoe's lead attorneys, urged the court to promptly address the disqualification case to prevent disenfranchising his client from the December 7 election. Justice Gyan-Kontoh agreed to review the case and encouraged both parties to consider an out-of-court settlement. However, the parties could not reach an agreement outside of court. With the injunction lifted, Ms. Cudjoe is now clear to contest the December 7 elections as the NDC candidate for Amenfi Central. Expressing her gratitude after the ruling, Ms. Cudjoe thanked her new legal team and the NDC members and executives, saying, “I am very happy.” Previously, the Accra High Court dismissed an NDC application seeking to prevent the Electoral Commission (EC) from printing ballots for Amenfi Central. The NDC argued that the EC should wait until the resolution of their challenge to the commission's decision not to recognize Ms. Cudjoe as the NDC candidate. However, the court ruled that the EC was acting within its mandate, following a Sekondi High Court order that placed an injunction on Ms. Cudjoe’s candidacy. In response, the NDC filed a new motion with the Sekondi High Court, urging it to overturn the injunction, leading to the recent ruling in Ms. Cudjoe’s favor. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Analysis & Opinion Ghana How the IMF is Shaping Ghana's Key Election Issues in December 2024 Agyeman Joshua Nov 25, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link conomy and Resources at the Heart of Ghana's Election Debate Ghana’s upcoming election in December seems heavily influenced by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Regardless of who wins—whether the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) or the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)—economic policies will largely align with IMF directives. Oxford Economics projects a slight difference in budget deficits by the end of the next presidential term: 5.3% of GDP for NPP and 5.1% for NDC. Dr. John Kwakye, Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), highlighted seven key issues that will shape the election results: the economy, corruption, unemployment, infrastructure, education, climate, and cultural values. On his X page, he stated these areas will be pivotal for voters. He also urged Ghanaians to reject leaders who rely on borrowing for development. "We have enough resources here at home. We don’t need to go out and borrow," Dr. Kwakye argued, calling for leaders who can maximize Ghana’s natural resource wealth. As Ghanaians prepare to elect a president and Members of Parliament for the next four years, starting January 2025, the focus is firmly on economic policies and national resource management. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Analysis & Opinion RwandAir's Cape Town Cutback: The Economic Aftershocks Mbeki edmond Sep 19, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The recent announcement by RwandAir to suspend flights to Cape Town starting October 27, 2024, might seem like a minor adjustment in its route network at first glance. However, when viewed through the lens of Rwanda's broader economic and political strategies, this decision could be indicative of significant financial pressures on RwandAir, potentially reflecting the economic ripple effects of Rwanda's geopolitical maneuvers in the region, particularly concerning mineral exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Under President Paul Kagame's leadership, Rwanda has ambitiously positioned itself as an economic and technological hub in Africa, with investments in ICT, infrastructure, and now, aviation. RwandAir's expansion was symbolic of Kagame's vision for Rwanda's integration into global commerce, not just as a participant but as a leader. However, the suspension of flights to Cape Town hints at underlying financial issues, possibly linked to a reduction in lucrative mineral exports from the DRC. Historically, Rwanda's involvement in the DRC, often through support for various militias like the M23, has been criticized for fueling instability for economic gain, particularly in the mineral-rich eastern Congo. These minerals, essential for global tech industries, have been a significant, albeit controversial, revenue source. The international pressure and regional dynamics might have curtailed Rwanda's ability to leverage these resources as freely as before. The reduction in this shadow economy could directly impact state-owned enterprises like RwandAir. President Kagame's strategy of maintaining influence in the DRC through military support and strategic alliances has always been a double-edged sword. While it provided economic benefits through mineral wealth, it also invited international scrutiny and accusations of destabilizing the region for profit. The recent tensions and international calls for peacekeeping interventions might have reduced Rwanda's covert economic activities, leading to a financial shortfall. The airline industry is notoriously capital intensive, requiring continuous investment for fleet maintenance, route development, and operational costs. For a small nation like Rwanda, the viability of an international carrier like RwandAir heavily leans on not just passenger traffic but also on the economic health supported by these less visible revenue streams. The suspension of the Cape Town route could be a cost-saving measure, a red flag for RwandAir's financial sustainability amidst dwindling external funds. This analysis, while speculative, uses the context of known regional dynamics and economic dependencies to suggest that Kagame's approach might need recalibration, not just for peace but for the economic stability of Rwanda itself. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | War & Conflicts U.S. Pledges $414 Million in Humanitarian Aid for Crisis-Stricken Congo louis Buyisiwe Aug 6, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link U.S. Announces $414 Million in Aid for Crisis-Hit Congo, Aims to Address Displacement and Health Crises The U.S. has announced nearly $414 million in humanitarian aid for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where over 25 million people are in dire need of assistance. Jeffrey Prescott, the U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Agencies for Food and Agriculture, revealed that a significant portion of this funding will go to U.N. agencies and aid groups providing food, healthcare, nutrition, shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene services. The aid, which includes direct support for agricultural commodities from American farmers, brings the total U.S. aid for DRC since October to $838 million. Prescott, alongside U.S. Ambassador to the DRC Lucy Tamlyn, will announce the aid in Kinshasa. The DRC's humanitarian crisis is intensified by ongoing conflicts, especially in the east where the army battles M23 insurgents. Renewed fighting has displaced over 1.7 million people , contributing to a record high of 7.2 million displaced individuals nationwide, according to U.N. estimates. A U.N. aid appeal for $2.6 billion for the DRC this year has only met one-third of its goal. The World Health Organization recently warned that over one million Congolese children are at risk of acute malnutrition. Prescott hopes the U.S. aid will encourage other nations to increase their support. Additionally, the U.S. will provide $10 million for health assistance and donate 50,000 mpox vaccines. The viral infection, which has caused around 27,000 cases and over 1,100 deaths in Congo this year, mostly affects children and can be fatal despite typically presenting mild symptoms. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Foreign Relations The Missteps of FIDH and Survie on Human Rights in Côte d'Ivoire, Rwanda, and the DRC Dianna Tran Oct 4, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Recent developments in Paris have brought attention to Charles Onana, a historian and expert on the African Great Lakes region, who faces legal action from France-based NGOs, including the International Federation of Human Rights (FIDH) and Survie. They accuse him of genocide denial regarding his analyses of the Rwandan conflict from 1990 to 1994. Survie has also critiqued Onana's book on the Congolese genocide, titled Holocaust in the Congo, the International Community's Omertà , through a controversial two-part article by its president, Odile Tobner. Tobner's reconstruction of Congolese history overlooks critical geopolitical factors and dismisses the extensive archival research conducted by both Congolese and international scholars. This article cannot tell the tragic story of the Hutu refugees in Zaire, despite the abundant evidence of their plight. Instead, it perpetuates the misleading narrative of the FDLR as a serious threat to Rwanda, while hiding the difficulties of international involvement in the DRC. What is particularly troubling is that Tobner neglects to mention the ongoing genocide in the DRC, which has claimed over 12 million civilian lives and displaced millions more in the past 28 years. Both Survie and FIDH have played roles in downplaying the crimes committed by the Tutsi-led Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and have misled the French public regarding the alleged complicity of the French army in the Rwandan genocide. Survie must address the allegations against its member Jean Carbonare, who was criticized for his pro-Kagame stance, a charge revealed by investigative journalist Pierre Péan in his book Carnages. Carbonare participated in the International Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights Violations in Rwanda in 1993, which was later discredited due to a lack of professionalism and bias. The 1993 report, which immediately denounced Habyarimana's government, was rejected by a Canadian court and criticized for failing to interrogate the accused. FIDH's Eric Gillet recently said he approached the report as an activist rather than a historian, which he admits resulted in a lack of rigor. Alex De Waal, who co-founded African Rights, has reflected on the inadequacies of the evidence available during their reports on Rwanda. He admitted that their narratives often prioritized attention over accuracy, ultimately supporting the RPF’s rise to power and subsequent actions in the DRC, which included the targeting of Hutu refugees and resource exploitation. Judie Rever criticizes De Waal's attempts to shield himself from accountability and notes the troubling relationship between African Rights and the RPF. In her assessment, the organization has acted as a front for the RPF, shaping narratives to portray it favorably. https://www.africageopolitics.com/post/the-international-federation-of-human-rights-fidh-survie-getting-it-wrong-on-c%C3%B4te-d-ivoire Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Protests & Movements Nigeria Cracks Down on 'Hunger' Protests Amid Rising Living Costs: 3 end up dead Ayize claire Jul 31, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Thousands of Nigerians take to the streets, protesting against rising living costs and demanding an end to bad governance Nigerian police have fired live bullets and tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters rallying against the rising cost of living in Kano, the largest northern city. Many businesses across the country have shut down as demonstrators chant slogans like "We are hungry." In Kano, gunshots were fired after protesters set tires ablaze in front of the state governor’s house, resulting in four people being hospitalized. The protests, organized via social media and inspired by recent successful protests in Kenya against tax increases, have seen officers using hot water cannons in Kano to control the crowds. Looters broke into a nearby warehouse, making off with cooking oil and mattresses. In Abuja, a court ordered protesters to remain at the National Stadium , but they moved towards the city center, prompting police to fire tear gas to control the procession, affecting traffic. Security forces are stationed strategically across the capital and surrounding towns, with banks closed in these areas. In Lagos, the economic hub of Nigeria, the protest is gaining momentum as demonstrators converge in Ojota, designated by the government as a protest site, shouting "ole" (thief) in Yoruba in reference to President Bola Tinubu and his administration. The discontent stems from President Tinubu’s removal of a fuel subsidy in May 2023, which aimed to reduce government spending but led to soaring pump prices and subsequent increases in other goods. Protesters demand the reversal of this decision and call for comprehensive reforms in the electoral system and judiciary. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa BRICS Summit Russia BRICS summit: Vladimir Putin announced the emergence of a category of countries Dallas Hughes Oct 24, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link How the BRICS summit in Kazan ended Vladimir Putin announced the emergence of a category of countries - partners of the association The 16th BRICS summit, which Vladimir Putin called "the culmination of Russian representation," has ended in Kazan. The results of the meeting, new partner countries, and Turkey's latest proposal for negotiations with Ukraine are in the RBC article Who and how participated in the meeting in Kazan Russian President Vladimir Putin devoted the first day of the summit, October 22, to bilateral meetings with the leaders of the association's countries in the Kazan Kremlin, and on the second day, he chaired the BRICS summit sessions (first in a narrow format, then in a broad format), which ended with the adoption of the 43-page Kazan Declaration. On the final, third day of the summit, meetings were held in the "outreach"/"BRICS Plus" format, which were also attended by the leaders of states interested in cooperation with the association - Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Bolivia, Venezuela, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mauritania, Palestine, the Republic of Congo, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, as well as UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. After the summit, Putin gave a final press conference. In total, delegations from 35 countries and six international organizations took part in the summit. In the run-up to the event, it became known that two leaders whose participation was expected would not come: Brazilian President Lula da Silva was forced to miss the summit due to an injury sustained after falling in the bathtub, and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic was unable to attend due to schedule conflicts (the Serbian delegation was headed by Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent two days in Kazan, leaving on October 23 due to a planned visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz to his country. Right in the middle of BRICS Plus, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also flew out of Russia. The latter was forced to cut his visit short due to the terrorist attack on the Turkish aerospace company TUSAS in Ankara the day before. The BRICS association was formed in June 2006. At that time, on Moscow's initiative, the foreign ministers of Brazil, India, China and Russia met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. They agreed to hold the first summit in Yekaterinburg in 2009 in 2008 on the sidelines of the G8 in Japan. The first name of the association was an acronym of the first letters of the names of the four countries; after South Africa joined in 2010, the letter C (South Africa) was added to the name. Following the BRICS summit in Johannesburg in 2023, six countries were invited to join the association: Argentina, Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia. On December 10, Argentina took office as its new president, libertarian Javier Miley, one of whose election campaign points was to refuse to join BRICS. The BRICS countries account for 45% of the world's population, and their share in global GDP at purchasing power parity as of the end of 2024 was 36.7%. This year, Russia chairs BRICS under the motto "Strengthening multilateralism for equitable global development and security." In 2025, the chairmanship will pass to Brazil. How the ranks of BRICS partners have expanded Over 30 countries have expressed interest in cooperation with BRICS in one form or another, but the current members of the organization, as expected, decided to hold off on further expansion. Instead, some applicants were offered the status of partner countries, the modalities of which were fixed during the meeting on October 23. As the Sherpa of India, Deputy Minister of External Affairs for Economic Cooperation Dammu Ravi, said in the evening of the same day, in the run-up to the meeting, each of the BRICS member countries submitted its list of preferred candidates, and on this basis a single list was then agreed upon. "Some countries that participated in these events - today's and yesterday's - have conveyed to us their wishes and requests for full-scale participation in the work of the BRICS association. The situation will develop as follows: we will send an invitation and proposal to future partner countries to participate in our work in this capacity and, upon receiving a positive response, we will announce who is on this list," Putin said at the final press conference. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko announced that one of the BRICS partner countries had become one of its partners. According to him, the same status was granted to a total of 12-13 countries. On January 1, 2024, Saudi Arabia was supposed to join the group along with Egypt, Iran, the UAE and Ethiopia, but over the following months, the kingdom's representatives failed to confirm its official membership in BRICS. Ahead of the event, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said that Saudi Arabia's status would become clearer during the summit in Kazan. Even before the event, it became known that the kingdom would be represented by Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. However, he arrived in the capital of Tatarstan only on the evening of October 23 and was absent from the narrow and broad sessions of the BRICS summit. Al Saud only appeared at the meeting in the “outreach”/“BRICS Plus” format, but did not give a speech. During the press conference, Putin did not clearly state the status of Saudi Arabia, but noted his close ties with King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. Putin also said that BRICS is now an organization, not just an association or a club of interests, according to him, "this is an obvious fact." "We now need to structure the work of this organization, and, of course, my colleagues and I will think about this and are working on it," he added. "But at the same time, we would not like to overly bureaucratize the work of this organization, so that we have officials there who will drive luxury cars and have some endless staff, big salaries, and then it will be unclear at all who does what there." What BRICS leaders said about the settlement of the conflict in Ukraine As in the declarations of the two previous summits, the Kazan document devotes only one paragraph to the situation in Ukraine; it states that the parties reminded each other of their national positions on the “situation in and around Ukraine.” “We emphasize that all states should act in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter in their entirety and interrelatedness. We note with satisfaction the relevant offers of mediation and good offices aimed at ensuring a peaceful settlement of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy,” the document says. However, during the summit itself, both at meetings of the participating countries and at the outreach/BRICS Plus meeting, the issue was raised several times. Xi Jinping twice recalled the “Group of Friends of Peace” created by China and Brazil, which also included other countries of the Global South. “It is important to facilitate a rapid de-escalation of the situation based on the principles of preventing the spillover of conflicts, their spread to third countries, and the escalation of hostilities and refraining from adding fuel to the fire,” he said (according to a simultaneous translation). The Brazilian president, who took part in the meeting via video link, spoke of preventing further escalation and the need to begin peace talks. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in turn, expressed support for the peace plan proposed by China and Brazil. The UN Secretary-General, who attended the meeting, called for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine based on the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions. Modi did not address the conflict in Ukraine in his speech, but it was a major topic during his bilateral meeting with Putin on October 22. As India’s First Deputy Foreign Minister Vikram Misri said after the talks, New Delhi is “exploring the possibility of finding a peaceful way to end the conflict and also, perhaps, also looking at alternative approaches that may not be on the table at the moment.” At the opening of the BRICS Plus meeting, Putin said that Ukraine is being used "to create critical threats to Russia's security." At a press conference, he spoke more fully on this matter, noting that he is ready to consider any options for peace agreements, "based on the realities that are developing on the ground, and is not ready for anything else." He also said that recently an aide to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan "called straight from New York" with a proposal for new negotiations with Ukraine. "I agreed. I said: "Okay, we agree." The next day, the head of the Kyiv regime suddenly announced that he was not going to negotiate with us. We told the Turks: "Guys, thank you, of course, for your participation, but first sort things out with your clients, then let them say directly whether they want it or not," he said. According to Putin, even his Turkish interlocutors called Ukraine a "difficult partner." Ukraine's reluctance to launch the negotiation process, the Russian leader believes, is due to the fact that such a step would entail the lifting of martial law and the need to hold elections, while the attack on the Kursk region is an attempt to demonstrate to the current US administration and Democratic Party voters that their investments in Ukraine are "not in vain." What else was agreed in Kazan Another important topic of the summit was the ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip and the spread of the conflict to Lebanon. According to Putin, the current situation in the Middle East resembles a “chain reaction” and puts the entire region on the brink of all-out war. The Russian leader said that the only way to break the “vicious circle of violence” is to create a full-fledged Palestinian state. Other participants in the association also called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East and for Palestine to be admitted to the UN as a full member (all BRICS members also voted “for” the corresponding UN General Assembly resolution of May 10, 2024). The text of the final declaration and the meetings also raised other topics that are already familiar to the association: the need to reform the UN, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the World Trade Organization (WTO); the unacceptability of unilateral sanctions; the importance of implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), combating climate change and countering terrorism. The association's leaders also called for a peaceful settlement in Afghanistan and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which has been hampered by the increasing attacks by the Houthis, and expressed concern about the escalation in Sudan and the unrest in Haiti. What economic initiatives has Russia put forward during BRICS? Speaking at an expanded summit meeting, Vladimir Putin proposed or recalled initiatives to create: BRICS investment platform to support the economies of the participating countries and provide financial resources to countries of the Global South and East; BRICS Arbitration Investment Centre; a special mechanism for consultations between the countries of the association on WTO issues in order to “form fairer rules of the game in the global economy and reform the international financial system”; BRICS grain exchange; Alliance for the unification of artificial intelligence. BRICS platform on precious metals and diamonds; BRICS Carbon Markets Partnership and Climate Research Platform; BRICS logistics platform and electronic communications platform for transport; interstate platform for fair competition; permanent rotating BRICS tax secretariat. The Kazan Declaration notes that the association's participants agreed to study the possibility of creating an independent cross-border settlement and depository infrastructure, BRICS Clear. The document also includes a proposal to create "an independent BRICS reinsurance potential, including the BRICS (Re) Insurance company, with participation on a voluntary basis." Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa War in DRC Paul Kagame: A Criminal Leader Destabilizing the Region Serge Kabongo Sep 18, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Paul Kagame has long been hailed as a visionary leader who lifted Rwanda from the ashes of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. However, beneath the surface of his carefully crafted image lies a much darker reality: a regime marked by oppression, exploitation, and involvement in the destabilization of neighboring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kagame has been implicated in a series of war crimes, human rights abuses, and the plundering of resources from the DRC. As Pan-Africanists, it is our responsibility to expose the truth about his regime and challenge the narrative that portrays him as a hero of Africa. Rwanda’s Role in the Genocide of the DRC Kagame flatly denied Rwanda’s involvement in the crimes committed in the eastern DRC, specifically rejecting allegations of a genocide killed over 12 millions of Congolese . This denial is not only false but also dangerous, as it erases the suffering of millions who have fallen victim to the atrocities committed by Rwandan forces and militias under Kagame’s watch. Eastern Congo is rich in natural resources, including coltan, a mineral critical to the production of electronics. Rwanda, a country that does not produce significant amounts of coltan, has nonetheless emerged as the world’s top exporter of the mineral. How is this possible? The answer is simple: Kagame’s regime has orchestrated a campaign of looting in the DRC, exploiting the chaos in the region to enrich Rwanda at the expense of Congolese lives. Rwanda’s involvement in the plundering of the DRC’s resources has been well-documented, yet Kagame continues to deny it, insisting that his government is innocent of any wrongdoing. Kagame’s denial of Rwanda’s role in the DRC’s genocide ignores the testimonies of thousands of survivors who have witnessed the destruction caused by Rwandan militias. These militias, under Kagame’s direction, have raped, murdered, and pillaged with impunity, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake. The violence in the region is not an isolated incident but part of a broader strategy to destabilize the DRC and maintain control over its resources. Kagame’s government benefits from the chaos, as it allows Rwanda to continue its exploitation of the region without accountability. Dr. Denis Mukwege, the Congolese gynecologist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has been a vocal critic of Rwanda’s role in the violence in eastern Congo. Mukwege’s work with survivors of sexual violence has exposed the horrific reality of the conflict, and his calls for justice have been met with disdain by Kagame, who claims that Mukwege is being manipulated by “invisible forces” to attack his regime. This accusation is not only baseless but also an insult to the millions of people who have suffered as a result of Rwanda’s actions. Kagame’s False Development Narrative Many African leaders and intellectuals have praised Kagame for transforming Rwanda into an economic success story. However, this so-called development is built on a foundation of exploitation and oppression. Rwanda’s economic gains have been fueled, in part, by the wealth stolen from the DRC. The country’s role as a coltan exporter is a glaring example of how Kagame’s regime has profited from the suffering of others. Moreover, Kagame’s domestic policies have been marked by repression. The Rwandan people live under an authoritarian regime where dissent is not tolerated, and political opponents are routinely silenced through imprisonment, exile, or assassination. The image of Rwanda as a thriving, peaceful nation is a facade, hiding the reality of a population that is oppressed and a leader who rules with an iron fist. Kagame Must Face Justice The international community, particularly Western powers, has long supported Kagame’s regime, viewing him as a stabilizing force in the region. However, this support has come at the cost of justice for the people of the DRC. Kagame has not lifted Rwanda out of chaos for free; his rise to power and his continued dominance have been backed by powerful foreign interests. These interests have enabled Kagame to destabilize the sub-region while sharing in the spoils of the conflict. Kagame’s actions are not those of a visionary leader but of a war criminal. He has orchestrated a campaign of violence and exploitation that has left millions dead and displaced in the DRC. The time has come for Kagame to be held accountable for his crimes. The international community must stop turning a blind eye to the atrocities committed by his regime and bring him to justice for his role in the destabilization of the region. Conclusion: Pan-Africanism and True Development As Pan-Africanists, we must reject the false narrative of Kagame’s greatness. Rwanda’s development under his leadership is not the result of hard work and ingenuity but of the exploitation of African lives and resources. Kagame’s regime represents a new form of colonialism, one that preys on its African neighbors for profit and power. True African development cannot be built on the backs of the oppressed. It cannot be achieved through violence, plunder, and the destruction of lives. Kagame’s vision of Africa is one of chaos and exploitation, and it must be rejected if we are to build a continent that is truly free and prosperous. The people of the DRC, and all of Africa, deserve leaders who will work for peace, justice, and equality, not those who will destroy their fellow Africans for personal gain. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Human Rights Ex-Minister Berhane Abrehe Dies in Eritrean Prison After Six Years Without Charge Ayize claire Aug 23, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Berhane Abrehe, Eritrea's former finance minister and prominent critic Berhane Abrehe, Eritrea's former finance minister and prominent critic of President Isaias Afwerki, has died in prison at 79, his family confirmed. He was jailed in 2018 after publishing a book that described Afwerki as a dictator and called for his resignation. Berhane, who had served as finance minister for 12 years, was removed from office in 2012 following disputes with the president over budget transparency. Eritrean authorities, known for their secrecy, informed Berhane’s family of his death but have not yet released his body. Reports suggest plans to bury him in Asmara Patriots Cemetery, reserved for veterans of Eritrea's independence war. Human rights groups, including the UN, have consistently accused Eritrea of gross violations, including arbitrary detention, torture, and enforced disappearances. President Afwerki, in power since the country's independence in 1991, has ruled without national elections, banning political parties and independent media. Berhane’s death brings renewed attention to Eritrea’s ongoing human rights abuses, with many prisoners, including senior officials, detained for decades without trial or contact with the outside world. Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .

Africa | Analysis & Opinion Nigeria Governor Zulum urges Tinubu to pause tax reform bills, arguing they favor only Lagos and Rivers States Chinedu Bruce Dec 1, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has shed light on why Northern governors advised President Bola Tinubu to halt his controversial tax reform bills. Speaking on Channels Television's Sunday Politics , Zulum explained that the proposed changes favor Lagos and Rivers States disproportionately. “Our analysis shows that only Lagos and Rivers would benefit significantly. Northern states would lose out,” he stated, urging the federal government to reconsider and allow more time for broader consultation before passing the law. Related article: Atiku Calls for Transparency in Tinubu's Tax Reform Bill Debate Zulum dismissed claims that the North opposes Tinubu's administration, emphasizing their support. “Over 60% of Tinubu’s votes in the 2023 elections came from the North. I was among the first to publicly advocate for power rotation to the South,” he noted. He stressed the need for balanced policies, stating, “Let’s expunge clauses harmful to all regions, not just the North.” Related Posts Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . DR.Congo President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . South Africa In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues . Ghana DR.Congo Constant Mutamba announces the execution of the death penalty against the Kulunas convicted of terrorism . DR.Congo Lobito Corridor: DRC's Role in Geopolitical Strategy . South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his Cabinet, keeping Thembi Simelane regardless of VBS corruption allegations . Ghana In Ghana's 2024 elections, governance, tribalism, accountability, and corruption are the real issues .