citizens

Rediscovering a National Hero: The Legacy of Herbert Macaulay and the Power of Presidential Mercy in Nigeria In a remarkable gesture aimed at reconciliation and acknowledgement of historical injustices, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has recently granted presidential mercy to 175 individuals. Among those honored is a name that resonates deeply within the annals of Nigeria's fight for independence: Herbert Macaulay. The Weight of History Herbert Macaulay, often hailed as Nigeria's foremost nationalist, played a pivotal…

Lisbon funicular crash kills 16, including three Britons; wreckage removed as probe begins LISBON — A historic funicular that climbs a steep, cobbled street in the heart of Lisbon derailed late Friday, killing 16 people and injuring more than 20 in one of Portugal’s deadliest recent transport disasters. Portuguese authorities and international diplomats said the victims included tourists from at least a half-dozen countries, deepening shock in a city whose identity and economy are closely tied to its vintage attractions.…

Human rights advocates are strongly encouraging the authorities in Mozambique to take decisive action against the ongoing repression and violence directed at protesters challenging the questionable election results. The Committee to Protect Journalists has painted a grim picture of the situation, stating that the nation has "plunged into turmoil as security forces engage in violent confrontations." Disturbingly, they report that at least nine journalists have faced assault or arrest, while two foreign correspondents have…

Recent reports reveal that a significant number of Gabon’s 860,000 registered voters have chosen to support a new Constitution, which might mark an end to military governance, as disclosed by State Television. This important referendum has the potential to dismantle a political dynasty that the Bongo family has held onto for nearly six decades. The proposed Constitution is not just a piece of legislation; it embodies one of the key promises made by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema following his seizure of power during…

North Western State of Somalia Votes: A Crucial Turning Point in Leadership Selection Hargeisa (Axadle) – In a much-talked-about election, citizens of North Western State of Somalia are making their way to the polls today, eager to choose their leader for the next half-decade. The presidential showdown features a trio of heavy hitters: current President Muse Bihi from the Kulmiye Party, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Cirro” representing the Waddani Party, and Faisal Ali Warabe of the UCID Party. In tandem with the…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a shocking incident in Guriel, a town in the Galgaduud region of Somalia, two Ethiopian nationals lost their lives on Monday. It all started with a clash reportedly involving an individual clad in the uniform of the Somali federal forces, which has triggered a wave of fear and prompted many Ethiopian workers to flee the area. Eyewitnesses recounted that one of the Ethiopian men was shot dead on the spot, while the other, severely wounded, succumbed later in the day. This violent episode has stirred…

FILE - At a government assembly in Mogadishu, Somali Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Omar Ali Balcad voices significant national subjects.In a recent announcement, the Somali government cleared the air about the imminent return of a small group of Somali citizens from Germany. These individuals, having been found guilty of severe crimes, are scheduled for repatriation soon, thus sparking conversation about whether this might impact the larger Somali refugee community residing in Germany. Shedding light on the matter, Deputy…

Mogadishu (AX) — Determined to extend a welcoming hand, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud pledged to embrace Somali nationals boomeranging back from Germany. Post a notable meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Wednesday was the day for affirmations. "I'm all in for repatriating any Somali who hasn't snagged a residence permit or settled properly in Germany," Mohamud avouched to the German tabloid BILD. "We’re a changed nation. Safer, past the days of civil unrest," Mohamud stressed to BILD, echoing Somalia's rising…

Human Rights Watch has strongly called on the Burkinabe authorities to carry out a "swift and comprehensive" inquiry into the tragic massacre of civilians in Barsalogho, a town that recently endured a catastrophic event on August 24, 2024. This horrific attack was perpetrated by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimeen (JNIM), leading to the loss of over 130 lives, with countless others left injured. Carine Kaneza Nantulya, the Deputy Director for Africa at Human Rights Watch, articulated the…

 Hargeisa (AX) — The Election Commission of North Western State of Somalia is wrapping up essential preparations for a pivotal election designed to attract the attention of over a million voters. This event is a significant barometer of transparency and impartiality, reflecting the region's growing dedication to democratic principles.Marking the second joint voting event in as many years, this election presents the electorate with a chance to choose from three presidential hopefuls and ten political entities vying for…