governance

Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar recently articulated a growing tension between Nigeria and the United States regarding the repatriation of Venezuelan migrants. He emphasized that the Nigerian government is feeling substantial pressure from Washington to accept these deportees. “Our refusal to comply might very well have influenced the U.S. decision to impose a 10% tariff on our exports,” Tuggar remarked, alluding to an intricate geopolitical dance that impacts both nations. In an era where international…

In a significant turn of events, Uganda has officially reopened its border points with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), specifically at Bunagana and Mupaka. This development comes after a troubling four-year hiatus imposed by geopolitical tensions. The closing of these vital passageways in late January followed the M23 rebel group’s takeover of Goma, the heart of North Kivu Province. Such a disruption cast a long shadow over the region. Bunagana stands at the frontline of economic interaction, resting cheek-by-jowl…

During a recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump commended Liberian President Joseph Boakai for his remarkable command of the English language. This encounter, which also included leaders from five other African nations, showcased a moment of genuine appreciation. Trump expressed admiration, even inquiring about how Boakai honed his impressive language skills. Yet, beneath this seemingly innocent praise lies a deeper narrative that deserves scrutiny. Critics swiftly seized upon this incident, interpreting…

In a recent turn of events, opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi was handed a new sentence, compounding the over two decades of imprisonment he has already endured due to previous convictions, including money laundering. At the age of 84, Ghannouchi, along with 17 co-defendants, faced charges of "conspiring against state security." His legal team has vehemently contested these allegations, arguing that the trial lacked fundamental fairness. Since his detention in 2023, Ghannouchi has steadfastly refused to attend court…

Caster Semenya, South Africa's double Olympic champion in the 800 meters, has recently achieved a notable, if partial, legal victory. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that the Swiss Federal Supreme Court infringed upon her right to a fair hearing back in 2020. It’s a ruling that resonates deeply, not just in the realm of sports, but also within wider discussions about equity and the treatment of athletes. To put this into context, Semenya's fight isn't just about one race or one title; it's a quest for…

The Nigerian federal government has recently instituted a pivotal change in its education system by establishing the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions at 16. This significant development was announced by Education Minister Tunji Alausa during the 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) meeting, a gathering that underscored the government's commitment to fostering educational access. Prior to this decision, the threshold was set at 18 years, a policy introduced by former minister Tahir…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a firm stance against the recently imposed 30% tariff by U.S. President Donald Trump. He characterizes this decision as a "unilateral" action that lacks solid backing from trade data. Announced to take effect on August 1, this tariff highlights a peculiar dynamic, as South Africa is the only sub-Saharan nation singled out in Trump's proclamation. This distinction underscores a complicated and often strained relationship between the two leaders. In a letter addressed to Ramaphosa, Trump…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has affirmed that the Government of National Unity's National Dialogue will indeed move forward, despite the Democratic Alliance's (DA) recent withdrawal. In his remarks, he criticized this decision, labeling it a sign of a "poverty of good principles." Zukile Majova, writing for Scrolla in his column "Real Politics," characterized the DA's exit as a significant misstep. He argued that this choice showcases a disconnect from the everyday South African populace, especially among Black voters. Majova…

In the midst of a turbulent political climate, President Cyril Ramaphosa has labeled the recent allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu as a "grave national security concern." This statement came in light of serious accusations made by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a leading police official, who has stirred the waters by alleging that there has been interference in investigations into political assassinations. These revelations emerged while Ramaphosa was attending the BRICS summit, a critical platform for international…

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko for defamation, a verdict first delivered in January 2024. This decision pertains to accusations against him for attempting to tarnish the reputation of former tourism minister Mame Mbaye Niang. The ramifications extend far beyond the courtroom, playing a pivotal role in the political landscape of the nation. As the Supreme Court dismissed Sonko’s appeal for a reversal, the implications for his political career became…