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Somalia's Political Conference: A Critical Meeting of Minds in Mogadishu Mogadishu (AX) — On a noteworthy Wednesday in the heart of Somalia, a significant political conference convened, drawing the eyes of the nation and beyond. This gathering brought together influential opposition figures, setting the stage for an important dialogue on Somalia’s political trajectory, security environment, and electoral framework. In many ways, this moment could be pivotal in the ever-evolving landscape of power in Somalia. At…

In a surprising turn of events, a distinguished diplomat has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency ahead of the 2026 elections. Essa Bokarr Sey, a seasoned figure who has represented The Gambia in various capacities—most notably as ambassador to France, Taiwan, and the USA—stands at the forefront of this political endeavor. However, his announcement does not occur in a vacuum. It emerges against a backdrop of significant controversy surrounding the recent revisions to the national constitution. The original…

On the historic occasion marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, King Charles and other prominent royals gathered alongside veterans and enthusiastic crowds to witness a magnificent military parade and flypast. This event kick-starts four days of heartfelt commemorations acknowledging the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945. Events have been meticulously organized by the UK government as the nation reflects on this pivotal moment, recognized not just in the UK, but in countries like…

The trial of a woman accused of murdering three elderly individuals following a lunch of poisonous mushrooms has commenced in Australia. Notably, prosecutors have dropped additional charges of attempted murder against her husband. Erin Patterson faces allegations concerning the tragic deaths of her mother-in-law, Gail Patterson, her father-in-law, Donald Patterson, and Gail's sister, Heather Wilkinson, along with the attempted murder of Heather's husband, Ian Wilkinson. This case has captivated the nation and drawn…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant step towards democratic renewal, Somalia's Independent National Electoral Commission has initiated a new voter registration campaign across six additional districts in Mogadishu. This launch, which occurred on Saturday, marks a pivotal moment in preparations for the country’s first local council elections based on a one-person, one-vote system in nearly fifty years. The districts now included in this registration effort—Hodan, Howlwadaag, Kaaraan, Yaaqshiid, Warta Nabadda, and…

Marking 50 Years of Transformation: ECOWAS Celebrates Its Golden Jubilee On April 22, 2025, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will proudly kick off a series of activities to celebrate its 50th anniversary in the vibrant city of Accra, Ghana. This momentous occasion not only marks a significant milestone but also serves as a poignant reminder of the progress achieved and the challenges that lie ahead. As the distinguished guests gather for the Golden Jubilee launch, Ghana's Minister of Foreign…

In a tense diplomatic showdown, the French government has signaled its intent to respond robustly if Algeria proceeds with its threat to expel twelve officials from the French embassy in Algiers. This escalation follows Algeria's strong reaction to the detention of several embassy staff in Paris. The French authorities contend that these individuals are linked to the abduction of Amir Boukhors, a vocal critic of the Algerian regime, raising questions about the intersection of diplomacy and human rights. Just last weekend,…

The Kumbh Mela, a monumental gathering of Hindu faith, has once again swept through India, drawing an expected 400 million pilgrims over the next six weeks. It's not just another event on the calendar; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of devotion, culture, and sheer human spirit—a congregation unparalleled in size and significance. This ancient festival, which has its roots planted deep in the soil of Hindu mythology, unfolds at the sacred confluence of three rivers: the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the elusive…

Polling places in North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared republic, swung open wide for a crucial presidential election. This slice of the Horn of Africa is making headlines as residents cast their votes to decide who will steer the ship for the next half-decade. The incumbent boss, President Muse Bihi Abdi from the Kulmiye party, hopes to stick around. However, he's got some serious competition breathing down his neck. There's Abdirahman Irro, frontman for the main opposition crew, Waddani, and not to be outdone,…

In the quaint locale of Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, an election observer assists a resident casting her vote for the U.S. presidential election on the early morning of November 5, 2024. It's a scene that's been replayed for years: the tiny northeastern town kicking off Election Day voting at the stroke of midnight, captured in an image by Xinhua photographer Li Rui. Dixville Notch has cultivated a unique tradition over the years, where its modest group of six registered voters dutifully cast their votes as soon as it’s…