release

In a significant turn of events, former President Ali Bongo and his family have arrived in Luanda, the vibrant capital of Angola, following their recent release from Gabonese authorities. This marks a pivotal moment for the Bongo family, who have endured tumultuous times since a coup deposed Ali Bongo and reshaping the political landscape of Gabon. The aftermath of the coup, which took place in August 2023, saw tragic repercussions for many. Among those affected were Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo, Ali's wife and son, who…

IMF Agreement with Somalia: A Step Toward Recovery On a recent Friday evening, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced a significant development in its partnership with Somalia. The institution has reached a staff-level agreement that covers the third review under the Extended Credit Facility arrangement. This is not merely a financial transaction; it represents a crucial lifeline for a nation striving to regain its footing amidst considerable challenges. The details of this agreement are vital. As per…

North Western State of Somalia Government Clarifies Stance on Prisoners from Las Anod Conflict Hargeisa (AX) — In a recent statement that echoes through the heart of North Western State of Somalia's local communities, the government has firmly denied reports suggesting that it plans to release prisoners captured during the tumultuous fighting in Las Anod last year. This follows a wave of public protests that have surged online, fueled by uncertainty and speculation. Interior Minister Abdalle Mohamed Arab,…

Response to Unrest in Burao: A Call for Unity and Clarity In a significant turn of events following the recent protests in Burao, North Western State of Somalia President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro announced the release of at least 150 individuals detained during the demonstrations. This decision comes on the heels of tragic unrest that left two individuals dead and over forty injured, prompting the president to initiate a formal investigation into the violent incidents. These protests, which erupted amid social…

Cliona Ward, an Irish woman previously held in a U.S. immigration facility, has been released, according to her lawyer. Ms. Ward was freed from the Tacoma Detention Center in Washington State last night, following a judge's approval of an application to terminate the immigration proceedings, as confirmed by attorney Erin Hall during an interview with RTÉ's Prime Time. "You guys... CLIONA IS FREE!" shared Ms. Ward's sister, Orla Holladay, in an uplifting update on their Gofundme fundraising page. Orla recounted the…

The Complex Landscape of Somali Politics: A Humanitarian Gesture or Political Strategy? Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of Somali politics, a notable event unfolded earlier this month—a moment that many believe could reshape the future of the region. The SSC-Khaatumo administration recently released 25 prisoners to Somalia's federal government, coinciding with Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s groundbreaking visit to Las Anod. Such a visit had not been made by a sitting Somali prime minister in over 50 years. It is…

Hamas has expressed a willingness to negotiate an agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This plan would involve the release of all hostages and the establishment of a five-year truce, according to a statement from a Hamas official today, prior to talks with mediators. A delegation from Hamas is currently in Cairo engaging with Egyptian intermediaries to explore potential resolutions to the 18-month-long war. Meanwhile, on-the-ground rescuers reported that an Israeli airstrike on a family home in Gaza City…

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has made a heartfelt appeal to Hamas, urging the release of all hostages. He expressed concern that their continued captivity provides Israel with "excuses" to intensify its attacks on Gaza. This statement comes as rescuers recover charred bodies from a recent Israeli airstrike, underscoring the severe human toll of the ongoing conflict. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israeli strikes resulting in the deaths of at least 25 individuals across the territory. Meanwhile,…

In a united stance, more than 100 universities and colleges across the United States, including prestigious Ivy League institutions like Princeton and Brown, have come together to express their disapproval of President Donald Trump's perceived "political interference" in higher education. As articulated in their joint letter, "We speak with one voice against the unprecedented government overreach and political interference now endangering American higher education." This collective sentiment underscores the importance of…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant diplomatic move, the Somali government has embarked on formal discussions with Saudi authorities seeking the release or repatriation of over 100 Somali nationals currently imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. This group includes individuals facing severe penalties, some of whom are sentenced to death for drug trafficking offenses. The situation has sparked considerable concern and discussion among Somalis both at home and abroad. The information was confirmed by Abdiweli Hirsi Abdille,…