rejects

A Clash of Visions: North Western State of Somalia's Struggle and the Emergence of a New Northeastern State Hargeisa, North Western State of Somalia — The air in Hargeisa was thick with tension as North Western State of Somalia’s government convened an extraordinary meeting to address an unsettling development. A new administration claiming governance from Lasanod announced itself as the Northeastern State, challenging the very heart of North Western State of Somalia's territorial integrity. For those versed in the…

Over the years, the United States has been on a quest to reform its immigration policies, exploring various strategies for managing undocumented migrants. Among these strategies is the controversial consideration of deporting individuals, including convicted criminals and those with unresolved immigration statuses, to various African nations—an initiative that gained traction during President Donald Trump’s administration. This has sparked debates and raised critical questions about the responsibilities and challenges…

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…

In a significant legal setback, the African Union Court on Human and Peoples' Rights has dismissed a petition from former president Laurent Gbagbo and ex-prime minister Guillaume Soro. They sought to annul a ban preventing them from participating in Côte d’Ivoire's imminent election, a crucial political event. Both Gbagbo and Soro contended that the Ivoirian judicial system infringed upon their rights, a claim that they believed warranted the court’s urgent attention. However, the court’s ruling on Thursday underscored a…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a decisive statement that resonates with both urgency and hope, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has categorically dismissed any notion of reverting to Somalia’s former system of indirect elections. He underscores a fundamental principle: that political power should always reside with the people. As we stand on the precipice of a new democratic era, this declaration is a clarion call to engage in the governance process that directly affects every Somali citizen. During a dinner event held in Mogadishu,…

In a firm stance, Iran has communicated its unwillingness to engage in discussions regarding its nuclear program while facing military aggression from Israel. This comes amid efforts from European nations to encourage Tehran to return to negotiations, and as the United States contemplates its involvement in the escalating conflict. Israel, now a week into its military campaign, has reported targeting multiple military sites during an overnight operation. According to statements from the Israel Defense Forces, these strikes…

Opposition Leaders Critique Federal Government's Decision on C6+ Cooperation Framework Mogadishu (AX) — In a striking demonstration of discontent, Somalia’s leading opposition figures have openly criticized the federal government for its recent decision to dissolve the C6+ international cooperation framework. This move comes across as both unilateral and politically motivated, raising serious concerns about the potential isolation of the country and the jeopardization of hard-fought diplomatic and governance achievements.…

An Australian woman, Erin Patterson, has been accused of a tragic crime involving the alleged murder of three individuals using death cap mushrooms. Under intense scrutiny, she firmly denies having transformed the fungi into a dry powder for what would become a fatal meal. At the heart of this case is the accusation that the 50-year-old Patterson, a mother of two, deliberately spiked a beef Wellington lunch with the lethal mushrooms. This alleged incident took place in July 2023, claiming the lives of her estranged…

A U.S. judge has dismissed actor Justin Baldoni's substantial $400 million defamation lawsuit against actress Blake Lively. The suit arose from Lively's allegations of sexual harassment against Baldoni during the filming of the 2024 film It Ends With Us. In a ruling delivered by U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in Manhattan, it was determined that Lively's statements made to a California state agency regarding Baldoni’s alleged misconduct were protected by privilege, which means they cannot serve as the basis for a…

FILE - U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks during a press briefing in Washington, D.C., defending sweeping cuts to foreign aid programs. Mogadishu (AX) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has recently found himself at the center of a storm, facing increasing backlash from health experts and humanitarian organizations over his defense of substantial reductions in foreign aid. During a congressional hearing on May 21, Rubio made a contentious claim: “No one has died because of USAID”— a statement quickly challenged…