Legal and Judicial Affairs

In an unsettling chapter of international diplomacy, two South African engineers, Frik Potgieter and Peter Huxham, have finally returned home after enduring over two years of confinement in an Equatorial Guinea prison. Their ordeal stemmed from what the United Nations described as arbitrary and illegal drug charges, raising serious questions about the integrity of the judicial process in that country. The engineers were apprehended in February 2023 when authorities allegedly discovered illicit substances in their luggage.…

Julius Malema, a figure whose turbulent career often stirs both passion and controversy, has once again been denied entry to the United Kingdom. This is the second instance in just two months that the outspoken leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has faced such a setback. The UK Home Office has cited multiple reasons for this decision. Most notably, they highlighted his vocal support for Hamas, incendiary remarks directed at the white population of South Africa, and ultimately described his potential presence in…

The Chairperson of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), Gift Trapence, has expressed deep concerns regarding the Malawi Police Service's sluggish response in addressing escalating political violence. He is calling for prompt action and accountability, highlighting a disturbing pattern of inaction. In a pointed critique, Trapence questioned the integrity of the police force, suggesting that their failure to act betrays the public trust. “How can citizens feel secure when those sworn to protect them remain idle?” he…

Recently, a troubling video from Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State ignited a wave of indignation across social media platforms. The footage depicted women students subjected to unwarranted physical contact from female staff members tasked with checking for bras prior to an examination. This incident raises several uncomfortable yet crucial questions about conduct, authority, and the rights of students in educational settings. The university, thus far, has opted to remain silent, not providing any immediate…

Victoire Ingabire, a prominent figure in the Rwandan opposition, recently made headlines by revealing that she has been summoned by a High Court judge. This summons is tied to a trial concerning nine individuals accused of treason—a matter that has stirred significant debate within both political and social spheres. Ingabire shared this development on X (formerly Twitter), expressing her anticipation for further details about the proceedings. The judge’s interest in Ingabire appears to stem from the numerous references to…

In a surprising turn of events, the Togolese government has decided to suspend the operations of Radio France Internationale (RFI) and France 24. They assert that these networks have engaged in "inaccurate and biased" reporting, a claim that, according to officials, threatens to tarnish the country’s reputation on the global stage. “Freedom of the press cannot be synonymous with disinformation or interference,” stated a representative from the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication, a phrase that resonates deeply in…

The administration of President Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating a travel ban affecting nationals from an additional 36 countries. Alarmingly, 25 of these nations are located in Africa, as detailed in recent communications from the State Department. These outlines enumerate a multitude of concerns, urging the involved countries to implement corrective measures within a stipulated timeframe. Earlier this month, the president enacted a proclamation that barred citizens from 12 specific countries from entering the…

In a tragic turn of events, the quiet night in Benue State was shattered as violence erupted, claiming the lives of at least 100 individuals. This horrific incident is merely a continuation of the long-standing conflict between herders and farmers over vital resources such as land and water—issues that resonate deeply across Nigeria. Families have been torn apart, and many have been forced from their homes, leaving communities vulnerable and food security in peril. Amnesty International has verified the details of this…

The Media Foundation for West Africa has applauded President John Dramani Mahama's timely move to prevent the closure of several radio stations, labeling it both "refreshing and commendable." This decisive action resonates with the essence of democratic values, where the airwaves serve as an essential tool for public dialogue and the free exchange of ideas. In a landscape often fraught with tension regarding free speech, one might question: what does it mean for a leader to prioritize communication? In a country where…

In a dramatic culmination of Burundi's recent parliamentary election, the ruling CNDD-FDD party has captured all 100 seats, boasting an overwhelming 96% of the total votes across the nation. This undeniable triumph, however, hasn’t come without controversy. While the electoral commission has reported only minor irregularities, opposition parties and various human rights organizations have voiced serious concerns regarding the integrity of the process. As we navigate the complexities of this electoral outcome, it prompts us…