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Showing posts from February, 2024

Ghana Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQ

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In a move that has generated significant international attention and condemnation, Ghana's parliament has passed a controversial bill that criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities and imposes strict penalties for those involved.  The bill, which received support from both major political parties, is now awaiting the signature of President Nana Akufo-Addo to become law. Under this new legislation, individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ can face imprisonment for up to three years, while forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups can result in a maximum five-year jail term. The bill also criminalizes the promotion, sponsorship, or support of LGBTQ+ activities, potentially leading to a prison sentence of up to five years. The passing of this anti-LGBTQ+ bill has sparked widespread criticism from human rights activists, who argue that it further marginalizes and endangers LGBTQ+ individuals in Ghana. International organizations and governments have expressed concerns about the potential violation of human right

US Service Member Sets Himself on Fire in Protest Against the War in Gaza

In a shocking act of protest against the ongoing conflict in Gaza, an active-duty member of the United States military set himself on fire outside the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. The incident occurred on Sunday, and the airman later succumbed to his injuries, as confirmed by the U.S. Air Force. The act of self-immolation was captured on video and livestreamed on social media platform Twitch before the tragic event took place. The airman's protest was an apparent act of dissent against Israel's military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in a significant loss of life and displacement of people. The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began after Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, has been marked by intense violence and humanitarian concerns. The airman's extreme act of protest highlights the deep emotions and concerns surrounding the conflict and its impact on the Palestinian population. It is important to note that self-harm or violence is not a

ECOWAS Lifts Ban on Niger: A Positive Step Towards Stability

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In a significant move towards regional stability, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has decided to lift the ban imposed on Niger. This decision comes after careful consideration of the progress made by Niger in areas such as democratic governance, human rights, and economic development.  In recent years, Niger has faced numerous challenges, including political instability, security threats, and economic hardships. The ECOWAS ban, imposed in response to a political crisis, aimed to pressure Niger's government to address concerns related to democratic principles and the rule of law. However, with the recent positive developments in the country, ECOWAS has recognized the efforts made by Niger to address these concerns, leading to the lifting of the ban. The lifting of the ban on Niger holds significant implications for the country's future. It serves as a recognition of the progress made by Niger in various aspects, particularly in strengthening democratic ins

THE AFRICAN UNION IGNORED DISCUSSING CRETICAL ISSUES ON THE CONTINENT AT THE 37TH ORDINARY SUMMIT

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The 37th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), held in Addis Ababa, was firmly dedicated to addressing the continent's challenges, prioritizing key areas, and bolstering international diplomacy. Here's a breakdown of the summit's main points: Agenda 2063: President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, who led the AU in 2024, underscored the significance of Agenda 2063, signaling the start of its second phase. Education emerged as a central focus, aligned with the year's "Educating for the 21st Century" theme, emphasizing inclusive, quality, and relevant learning in Africa. with the fast-changing world, Africa needs to change its system of education so that young Africans can be able to have jobs on the continent and not move out of the continent.   Peace and Security: President Ghazouani committed to intensifying efforts to resolve conflicts continent-wide, stressing the need for a stronger African voice on the global sta

UNVEILING THE UNUSUAL: BUEA YOUTHS' PLEA FOR A 91-YEAR-OLD PRESIDENT'S CANDIDACY AND ITS RIPPLE EFFECTS IN CAMEROON

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A video has surfaced online, featuring youths and taxi drivers in Buea urging the 91-year-old president of Cameroon, who has held power for over four decades, to stand for the 2025 presidential elections. President Biya, barely able to walk, is seldom seen in public except for his annual addresses on December 31st and February 10th. Cameroon has been embroiled in a war for over 7 years, with the president unable to address or resolve the conflict. Many question the motives of the Buea youths, speculating whether the move was sponsored by politicians seeking personal gains. Notably, the youth in Buea has never protested calling for an end to the ongoing war. Since President Biya assumed power, inflation has more than doubled, causing significant hardship for most Cameroonians. Meanwhile, top government officials enjoy a lavish lifestyle funded by state resources. Despite allegations of embezzlement by state ministers, no legal actions have been taken, even for funds intended to fight CO

M.P CORRUPTING THE PEOPLE OF NKAMBE TO GO OUT AND MATCH

A video of a Member of Parliament Ngala Gerald moving on the streets with military forces and sharing money to the youths of Nkambe to come out on the 11th of February and take part in the youth day match past celebration has surfaced online.  It's a shame for the government not to solve a problem but instead endanger the lives of its citizens on a day that is supposed to be a youth day. Youth Day celebrations ended abruptly in Nkambe,  Donga mantung Division of the Northwest Region of Cameroon after a bomb blast reportedly occurred at the grandstand. Many students could be seen running back home while others were seriously injured. one question we must ask is why he should be giving money before people can come out to take part in the February 11th celebration. Before now, youths used to go out gladly and celebrate this day. what has happened out of a sudden, why does the government have to force people and even bribe some to come out and match. Poverty is being used as a weapon t

PAUL BIYA SPEECH; DISCONNECTING FROM THE REALITIES OF THE YOUTHS

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President  Paul Biya  addressed the Cameroonian youth in a speech that resonated with a lot of mixed feelings owning to the current realities the youths are going through on a day-to-day bases in Cameroon. The speech was not any different from what he has been telling Cameroonians for more than 40 years in power.  The speech given to young Cameroonians, while addressing some pressing issues and trying to provide reassurances, also carries several negative aspects: The tone of Dismissal : The speech seems to downplay the gravity of certain concerns, such as the disappointment of the Indomitable Lions' early elimination from the Africa Cup Nations. While acknowledging the disappointment, the tone quickly shifts to a call for continued perseverance without addressing the underlying issues causing concern. Minimization of Concerns : The speech touches upon the recent fuel price hikes which have left many young Cameroonians unable to go about their businesses and also fails to acknowled

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF ACCESS BANK PERISHED IN AN HELICOPTER CRASH

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On the evening of February 10, 2024, in the Mojave Desert, California, the world was shaken by the loss of a visionary leader. Herbert Wigwe, the Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc and co-founder of Access Bank Nigeria, tragically perished in a helicopter crash, leaving an irreplaceable void in the financial world and sending shockwaves throughout the African business community. Herbert Wigwe Wigwe, aged 57, had guided Access Bank's trajectory since 2014, spearheading an ambitious expansion drive that propelled the bank to become Nigeria's largest by total assets. His leadership was characterized by innovation, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to revolutionizing the banking landscape across the continent. The ill-fated helicopter not only carried Wigwe but also his wife, Dame Chizoba Wigwe, their eldest son, and a close friend, Abimbola Ogunbanjo. Regrettably, there were no survivors from the crash, which occurred near Nipton, California. The National Transpor

UNCERTAINTY LOOMS: INTEGRITY OF THE ELECTORAL SYSTEM IN SENEGAL QUESTIONED

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In the vibrant political landscape of Senegal, where dynamism is the norm, the eagerly anticipated 2024 presidential election was poised to be a pivotal moment for the country. However, a sudden twist has left citizens and observers alike in a state of uncertainty. Originally scheduled for February 25, 2024, the 2024 Senegalese presidential election was eagerly awaited. Political parties mobilized their supporters, candidates crisscrossed the country, and citizens engaged in spirited discussions about the future. Candidate registrations opened in October 2023 and closed on December 26, 2023, setting the stage for a democratic showdown. Yet, on February 3, 2024, outgoing President Macky Sall shocked the nation by indefinitely postponing the election. The decision came amid controversies surrounding the disqualification of certain candidates and allegations of corruption within the electoral process, which had cast a shadow over the election. President Sall's decision was prompted by

SEPARATIST FIGHTERS REINFORCED GHOST TOWN IN BUEA

More lives continue to be lost in war thorn south west region of Cameroon as separatist fighters storm the city of Buea on Monday and several cars where burn and many civilians, military as well as a Divisional officer where killed in the attack.  Mondays have been impose by the separatist as a day for civil disobedience and civilians are always expected to stay home, businesses are also close as well as schools. In recent times the City of Buea have been disrespecting this  order and the government on the other hand has also described Buea as a town were life is normal.  The attack took place for more than one hour yet the military was no were to be found. It should be noted that Buea is highly militarise since the war started and it remains a mystery why the military didn't show up. The city of Buea has numerous check points mounted by the military with some of them less than two kilometers apart. These check points have rather been use to extort money from taxi drivers as well a