Legal and Judicial Affairs

The government of Liberia is dialing up its fight against illegal drug use by enforcing a sweeping ban on hookah in both public and private spaces. Alongside this, the authorities have placed strict limitations on the use of Tramadol, allowing it solely in "licensed hospital settings" under the watchful eye of qualified medical professionals. "Liberia is grappling with a significant drug crisis," emphasized Health Minister Louise Kpoto. She pointed out that the government is ramping up efforts to implement the nation’s…

The Nigerian armed forces, as part of Operation Hadin Kai, recently dealt a significant blow to terrorist factions, obliterating over 35 militants in a series of precision airstrikes. This decisive action came on the heels of an attempted assault near the Nigeria-Cameroon border, where insurgents had convened in Kumshe, Borno State, ostensibly gearing up to target a Forward Operating Base manned by the elite 21 Special Armoured Brigade. According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the militants had organized themselves into…

The recent arrest of five individuals in Lesotho for the illegal trade of pelargonium has revealed significant flaws in the government's capacity to safeguard endangered plant species, as reported by Sechaba Mokhethi for GroundUp. Back in 2004, the government classified Pelargonium sidoides—often called African geranium—as a protected species. This plant has gained global recognition for its medicinal properties, being a key ingredient in various herbal remedies, including some cough syrups. Yet, despite these protective…

In a recent address, President Filipe Nyusi, who is nearing the end of his current term, urged for a constructive dialogue aimed at resolving the unrest that has swept through the nation over the past few weeks. These protests erupted following the October 9 elections, during which Daniel Chapo, the candidate for the ruling Frelimo party, was announced as the victor. Nyusi expressed his concerns, noting that the ongoing violence is detrimental to Mozambique's economy, stating that it “restricts business operations and port…

Archbishop Thabo Makgoba, the Anglican Primate of Southern Africa, has issued a cautionary note suggesting that we may see an uptick in reports of misconduct involving church officials, especially following the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby. Welby's departure came on the heels of an investigation that unveiled his failure to report allegations of abuse perpetrated by John Smyth—a barrister, educator, and director of Christian camps—during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Smyth was a prominent figure…

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…

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a powerful global campaign held every year from November 25 to December 10. During this time, people and organizations worldwide unite to advocate for the prevention and eradication of violence against women and girls. So, what exactly do we mean by “gender-based violence”? It encompasses harmful actions directed at someone because of their gender identity. Although men and boys can certainly be victims, the stark reality is that women and girls bear the brunt of this…

In a significant move, Resolute Mining, an Australian-based company, has agreed to pay a hefty sum of $160 million to the Malian government in a bid to settle an ongoing tax dispute. This decision comes on the heels of a troubling incident where Mali's authorities detained the company’s CEO, Terence Holohan, along with two other staff members during their trip to Bamako for what was supposed to be routine negotiations with the current regime. As tensions rise, the spotlight on foreign mining operations in Mali grows ever…

The task force known as Operation Vala Umgodi, part of the South African Police Service operating in the North West province, has reiterated its plea for illegal miners who remain underground to resurface. Currently, law enforcement is engaged in a tense standoff with a significant number of illegal miners who find themselves stuck in an abandoned mining shaft. In response to the situation, police have effectively sealed off the entry points that these miners use to bring in supplies. As a result, these individuals are now…

This weekend, a significant face-off is set to take place in Senegal’s parliamentary elections, pitting former President Macky Sall against Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. Both leaders are at the helm of separate coalitions, each vying for control of the parliamentary majority. Expecting a turnout of over seven million voters, Senegalese citizens will cast their ballots for new members of Parliament. This election comes on the heels of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's decision to dissolve the previous Parliament, which he…