Global Affairs

Cameroon election complaints dismissed as opposition rejects results

The Constitutional Council rejected eight appeals, citing either insufficient proof or a lack of jurisdiction to nullify the election. Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 76, who once served as a government spokesperson, has proclaimed himself the winner, a claim dismissed by allies of President Paul Biya, 92, who is seeking a seventh term.

Cape Town school assault leaves eight pupils suspended amid public outrage

A video circulating online shows several boys repeatedly attacking a fellow student using a hockey stick, hose pipe, and a belt. Reports indicate that the victim was among nine pupils targeted in the assault.

New sanctions aim to pressure Russia as peace talks remain deadlocked

The sanctions were announced a day after Trump postponed a planned meeting with Putin in Budapest. Meanwhile, Russia launched intense attacks across Ukraine, resulting in at least seven deaths, including children.

Second night of unrest in Dublin leaves two officers hurt, 23 arrested

The unrest follows violent scenes on Tuesday, when a Garda vehicle was set on fire amid hours of chaos. The demonstration initially began as a peaceful response to an alleged sexual assault of a young girl early Monday, but quickly escalated into disorder.

Uganda schedules January 15 polls as Museveni seeks another term

Museveni, 80, who has led Uganda since 1986, aims to extend his presidency toward nearly 50 years. His administration has amended the constitution twice, first eliminating term limits and later removing the age ceiling for presidents, allowing him to continue his tenure.

Key Tanzanian opposition figure Heche arrested, claims Chadema

On Wednesday, John Heche, deputy chairperson of opposition party Chadema, became the latest member of his party to be arrested after officers detained him outside the High Court in economic capital Dar es Salaam.

Ugandan police lower death toll from major bus crash to 46

The crash happened just after midnight on the highway between the capital Kampala and the northern city of Gulu.

Stolen Louvre jewellery worth €88m, prosecutor says

Laure Beccuau told RTL radio the sum was "extraordinary" but said the greater loss was to France's historical heritage. Crown jewels and pieces gifted by two Napoleons to their wives were among the items taken.

Israel receives two bodies Hamas says are dead hostages

The Israeli military said two coffins were handed over to troops in the Palestinian territory by the Red Cross, which had earlier received them from Hamas.

Ruto congratulates Japan’s new PM Sanae Takaichi

In his message on Tuesday, Ruto described Takaichi’s victory as a testament to the confidence of the Japanese people in her leadership, vision, and dedication to their progress and prosperity.

China accuses US of weaponizing visas after restrictions on Central American allies

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing had lodged “serious protests” with Washington, accusing the US of once again putting its domestic laws above international norms.

Diwali’s record-breaking night of light

Along the banks of the Saryu River, the temple town achieved the largest display of oil lamps in a single event, with more than 2.6 million diyas lit in perfect coordination.

Japan elects first female PM as Sanae Takaichi takes office

The vote, held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, ushers in a landmark moment for a traditionally patriarchal society and signals the beginning of a new and potentially defining chapter in Japanese politics.

Bogota recalls US envoy as Trump escalates attacks on Petro

The diplomatic fallout came after Trump accused Petro of being an “illegal drug leader” and announced the suspension of all US aid to Colombia. He also hinted at imposing tariffs on Colombian goods, saying details would follow on Monday.

France intensifies hunt for Louvre raiders

As the museum remained closed for a second day on Monday, October 20, 2025, officials said 60 investigators were working on the theory that an organised crime group was behind the raid in which nine pieces of jewellery were taken.

US, Australia sign rare earths deal to counter China's dominance

The US and Australia have been working on these issues since Trump's first term, but Albanese said the latest agreement would take the partnership to the "next level".

IGAD proposes single digital visa system for member states and third-country nationals

The proposal seeks to create a harmonized, digital platform that will allow non-IGAD citizens, such as tourists, business visitors, and investors, to move more freely within the bloc.

No Kenyan cop killed in Haiti operation, Gang Suppression Force clarifies

The force in a statement confirmed that all officers are safe and accounted for.

US announces attack on Colombia rebel group boat as Trump ends aid

The United States has had warships deployed in the Caribbean off Venezuela since August and has attacked at least six boats it said were running drugs toward the United States, killing at least 27 people so far.

Pope Leo XIV canonises seven new saints at St Peter’s square

Among the newly canonised were Saint Ignatius Maloyan, an Armenian archbishop who died during the 1915 genocide; Saint Peter To Rot, Papua New Guinea’s first saint, killed for defending the sanctity of marriage; and Saint Vincenza Maria Poloni from Italy.

Rafah incident tests Gaza truce as Israel strikes targets after attack on troops

Hospital staff reported heavy casualties across the territory after a series of strikes, and residents described explosions and smoke filling the sky as ambulances raced to hit sites.

Colonel Randrianirina takes office as Madagascar begins transition

The former military commander formally took office at the Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, stepping in after President Andry Rajoelina fled the country and was later removed from office. Crowds, including the young activists who led the protests, attended the ceremony to witness the transfer of power.

China denies allegations of hacking UK government systems

In a statement on Thursday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing “firmly rejects the allegation” and accused the United Kingdom of engaging in political manipulation.

Visionary Pan-Africanist: AU, IGAD pay tribute to Raila Odinga

AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed profound sorrow over Raila’s passing, hailing him as one of Africa’s most distinguished and transformative leaders.

Raila Odinga remembered by world leaders as visionary statesman

French Government faces test after PM calls for pension freeze

Lecornu, reappointed just days after resigning, must win over Socialist MPs to prevent his government from collapsing. Far-left and far-right opposition parties have scheduled censure votes on Thursday, pressing for parliamentary elections to resolve the deadlock.

Six dead as US launches another strike on suspected drug boat near Venezuela

Trump made the announcement on Truth Social, saying intelligence officials had verified that the vessel was operating as part of an illegal trafficking route. He shared an aerial video showing a missile hitting a small boat, which immediately exploded upon impact. The president added that no American troops were injured in the operation.

Hamas hands over four more deceased hostages to Israel

The return follows Israel's warning to Hamas that aid to Gaza could be restricted until all 28 deceased hostages were handed back. On Monday, Hamas returned 20 living and four dead hostages.

Madagascar military takes charge as President Rajoelina flees amid protests

Madagascar, with a population of roughly 30 million and a median age under 20, struggles with poverty, with three-quarters of citizens living in hardship. Between independence in 1960 and 2020, GDP per capita fell by 45%, according to World Bank data, fueling frustration over basic needs and governance failures.

UK introduces visa requirement for Botswana nationals

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of International Relations, the UK Government has revoked the visa-free status previously enjoyed by Botswana nationals.