governance

The recent passing of Edgar Lungu, former president of Zambia, at the age of 68, has ignited a tumult of emotions and disagreements regarding his funeral arrangements. This multifaceted situation has left many baffled, particularly as it highlights a broader narrative of division between his family, political party—the Patriotic Front (PF)—and the current government. At the core of the controversy is the location and nature of Lungu's final send-off. The government, seeking to honor his legacy with a state funeral at an…

The ongoing strike by nurses and midwives has effectively paralyzed the country's healthcare system, prompting urgent calls from the government for the striking professionals to "reconsider" their actions. This drastic move is not just about wages; it embodies deeper systemic frustrations that have simmered for years. Imagine waking up in an emergency room, only to find minimal staff and a mountain of unattended patients. Such is the reality now faced by many hospitals, where the very individuals who dedicate their lives…

In the vibrant heart of Douala, Cameroon, the air buzzed with anticipation as the local police concluded a two-day surveillance of an apartment block where the prominent opposition leader, Maurice Kamto, had been residing. Having just returned from a politically charged rally in France, Kamto’s presence in the city ignited tensions with the ruling party. Was it a simple visit, or was he a looming threat to their political foundation? The stakes felt alarmingly high. As you weave through the bustling streets of Douala, a…

In a decisive moment for Gabon’s economic future, President Brice Oligui Nguema has put forth an ambitious initiative aimed at industrializing the nation’s economy. This initiative isn’t just a flash in the pan; it is a calculated effort to harness Gabon's vast natural resources, transforming them into high-value goods that can benefit the entire population. As he articulated during his announcement, Oligui envisions a Gabon that thrives on its own merits, moving beyond mere extraction and embarking on a journey of true…

In a surprising turn of events, the Wagner Group, a paramilitary organization known for its ties to the Kremlin, has announced its withdrawal from Mali. After more than three years of operations in the West African nation, the paramilitary firm claims to have fulfilled its mission. However, this departure raises a myriad of questions regarding the future of Russian military influence in the region. In a statement, Wagner declared its objectives “accomplished,” emphasizing its role in assisting the Malian military junta in…

On a pivotal day, Burundians cast their votes to shape the future of their parliament. With the ruling party positioned to secure a dominant victory, the political landscape appears decidedly lopsided. This comes on the heels of a notable development: the main opposition party, the National Freedom Council (CNL), was effectively barred from participating in this electoral process. How does one reconcile democracy with such blatant exclusion? The CNL, which emerged as the runner-up in the contentious 2020 elections, had its…

The Liberia National Police has taken a significant step in the investigation surrounding the devastating fire that engulfed the Capitol Building—the heart of the Liberian Legislature—in December 2024. Several members of the House of Representatives have been summoned as persons of interest, raising eyebrows and questions about the implications of this inquiry. A communication sent directly to Speaker of the House Richard Koon outlines the police's request for a meeting with specific lawmakers. This unexpected development…

In a significant turn of events, Chad’s President Mahamat Déby has taken a bold step by suspending all visas for U.S. citizens. This decision, framed as a matter of "reciprocity," follows the revelation that the United States has blacklisted Chad and eleven other nations, barring their citizens from entry. The context is critical: in a sweeping travel ban recently enacted by former President Donald Trump, seven out of the twelve affected countries hail from Africa. This sweeping measure was justified by claims of…

Former President Edgar Lungu has passed away at the age of 68 while receiving medical care in South Africa. His untimely departure has cast a pall over the nation, igniting a flurry of emotions among citizens who once rallied behind his leadership. Lungu ascended to the presidency in 2015, taking the helm as Zambia's sixth head of state. His tenure was characterized by ambitious infrastructure developments, from sweeping road projects to new schools and hospitals. Yet, it was also a time when Zambia's financial burdens…

The recent visit of former President Joseph Kabila to the rebel-occupied eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo has ignited a firestorm of debate. Officials in Kinshasa have leveled serious accusations, suggesting that Kabila may be providing covert support to the M23 rebel coalition. A high-ranking member of the ruling party recently remarked that Kabila's "unexpected" alliance with a group he once opposed raises eyebrows, hinting that there is "an underlying agenda" at play. This has left the government on…