Kenya Disassociates Itself from Congolese Opposition Figure’s Alliance with Rebels, Causing Diplomatic Tensions

Kenya Disassociates Itself From Congolese Opposition Figure's Alliance With Rebels, Causing Diplomatic Tensions

Kenya has declared its strong disassociation from a Congolese opposition figure who formed an alliance with rebels in Nairobi, leading to a diplomatic dispute with Kinshasa. The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Sunday that it would conduct an investigation into the political-military alliance, prompting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to recall its ambassador in protest.

The alliance, known as the Congo River Alliance, was launched on Friday and includes various DRC politicians and groups, including the M23 rebels who have seized territory in the eastern part of the country, as well as Corneille Nangaa, a former DRC election commission chief.

In response to this development, the DRC recalled its ambassadors to Kenya and Tanzania for consultations on Saturday. The recall of the envoy to Tanzania was due to Tanzania hosting the headquarters of the East African Community bloc, to which the DRC also belongs.

Kenya’s Foreign Minister, Musalia Mudavadi, issued a statement stating that Kenya was aware that some DRC nationals had made statements during a press conference in Kenya that were “inimical to the constitutional order of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.” He emphasized that Kenya strongly distances itself from any activities or statements that could harm the peace and security of the friendly nation of the DRC and that an investigation has been initiated.

The investigation aims to identify the individuals responsible for the statements and assess the extent to which their remarks fall outside the realm of constitutionally protected speech, according to the minister.

The formation of the Congo River Alliance, as described by Nangaa, aims to unite various Congolese armed groups, militias, and social and political organizations. This development raises concerns in a region plagued by long-standing insecurity fuelled by ethnic rivalries and resource conflicts.

The diplomatic tensions come at a time of escalating security concerns ahead of the DRC’s presidential elections scheduled for December 20. The country has been grappling with civil strife for decades. M23 rebels, which had been dormant for several years, resurfaced in late 2021 and seized control of large parts of the eastern province of North Kivu. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of approximately seven million Congolese within their own country.

Human Rights Watch estimates that over 1.5 million Congolese in conflict-affected areas will be unable to vote in the upcoming elections, while millions of internally displaced people will face similar challenges.

Nangaa justified the formation of the new alliance by stating that the state is too weak to ensure order in the impoverished and war-torn country, emphasizing the need for a new movement to fill the void.

The government’s spokesman, Patrick Muyaya, accused Nangaa of being “unpatriotic” and engaging in “subversive activities.”

Expressing extreme concern, Bintou Keita, the head of the UN’s peacekeeping mission in the DRC, called on all political actors to operate within the framework of the Constitution, respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law.

As the diplomatic row unfolds and tensions escalate, it remains to be seen how the situation will impact the fragile stability of the region and the upcoming elections in the DRC.

 

Source: Aljazeera

African Union Transition Mission Resumes Handover of Security Responsibilities to Somali Government Forces

African Union Transition Mission Resumes Handover Of Security Responsibilities To Somali Government Forces

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has resumed the process of handing over security responsibilities to Somali government forces after a three-month pause, according to officials. The handover includes control of the State House, also known as Villa Somalia, where Somali President Mohammed Hassan Sheikh Mohamud resides and works, as well as the parliament building.

Since 2007, AU forces have been working alongside Somali forces to secure strategic sites in the capital, Mogadishu, including the presidential palace, parliament building, airport, and seaport. However, Somali forces now assume sole responsibility for these key seats of the executive and legislative branches of government.

In an interview with VOA Somali, Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the AU envoy to Somalia and the head of ATMIS, confirmed the resumption of the drawdown. He expressed that the handover of the State House and the parliament marks a significant achievement and a positive signal to international partners that the Federal Government of Somalia is ready to take on its responsibilities.

As part of the drawdown, the mission plans to withdraw 3,000 soldiers by December 31st, and the responsibility for ten bases will be handed over in this phase. The first phase of the AU drawdown was completed in June when 2,000 troops left Somalia. However, in September, the Somali government requested a 90-day pause due to military setbacks in the fight against al-Shabab militants.

Hussein Sheikh-Ali, the national security adviser to the president of Somalia, confirmed the transfer of the presidential palace to the Somali army and police and expressed gratitude to the Ugandan forces who protected it for the past 16 years.

The recent lifting of an arms embargo has provided a boost to the Somali government’s efforts. Souef stated that the Somali authorities now have the capability to acquire the necessary arms, equipment, and ammunition to effectively combat the enemy.

Looking ahead, plans are in motion for a new mission to support Somalia’s national army beyond the ATMIS handover. Souef explained that the African Union is required to establish a new mission with a new mandate by January 1, 2025. This mission, which will have a combination of troops and civilians, will focus on capacity building, protection of populated areas and strategic infrastructure in Mogadishu and other capitals of federal member states.

While the specifics of the new mission are still being negotiated, Hussein Sheikh-Ali revealed that the Somali government is discussing the establishment of a multilateral protection force that will work closely with the Somali Security Forces to safeguard critical infrastructures in major cities where international agencies and embassies operate. The possibility of the new mission falling under the AU umbrella has not been ruled out.

As the ATMIS drawdown continues and plans for the future mission progress, the African Union’s commitment to supporting Somalia remains steadfast. The transition may mark a new chapter in Somalia’s security landscape, but it does not signify the end of AU engagement in the country.

 

Source: VOA

ECOWAS Court Orders Immediate Release and Reinstatement of Niger’s Deposed President

Ecowas Court Orders Immediate Release And Reinstatement Of Niger's Deposed President

In a significant ruling, the ECOWAS Court of Justice has called for the “immediate and unconditional release” of Mohamed Bazoum, the deposed President of Niger, and ordered his reinstatement. The court’s judgment, delivered in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, declared that Bazoum represented the state of Niger and remained the President of the republic.

Following a military coup that overthrew Bazoum, Niger was suspended from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Bazoum and his family were detained, with the former President being held in his presidential residence. The court ruling highlighted the violation of constitutional rights and emphasized the need for Bazoum’s release.

Niger’s military rulers have yet to respond to the court’s decision. It is worth noting that some member states have previously disregarded rulings from the ECOWAS court. In mid-September, Bazoum appealed to the court to secure his release and the restoration of constitutional order in the country. The ruling from the ECOWAS Court of Justice is considered final and not subject to appeal.

Bazoum’s collective of lawyers welcomed the court’s decision, emphasizing that it was the first time military authorities involved in a coup d’état were convicted for violating ECOWAS constitutional principles. The lawyers stressed that ECOWAS and its member states had a responsibility to ensure the effective implementation of the court’s ruling.

ECOWAS has already suspended Niger from all decision-making bodies until constitutional order is restored. The regional organization had imposed economic and financial sanctions against Niger following the coup but has since resumed dialogue with the military regime. Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, who mediated discussions in Niamey, announced that an agreement on the transition back to civilian rule had been reached with Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine.

Details of the transition, including its duration and specific steps, have yet to be disclosed. Dussey stated that the agreed-upon content and timing of the transition would be presented to the mediating heads of state and the ECOWAS Commission. The diplomatic efforts are aimed at facilitating a short transition period leading to the return of civilian rule in Niger.

An ECOWAS summit held in Abuja earlier this year paved the way for potential relaxation of sanctions against Niger, conditional on a swift transition back to civilian governance. A heads-of-state committee comprising representatives from Benin, Togo, and Sierra Leone will engage in negotiations with the Nigerien military regime to determine the necessary steps for the potential easing of sanctions.

General Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of the military regime, previously stated that the transition would not exceed three years and would be determined through an inclusive national dialogue. The outcome of ongoing negotiations and the subsequent transition will shape the future trajectory of Niger’s political landscape.

 

Source: France24

Venezuela and Guyana Agree to Peaceful Resolution in Long-standing Border Dispute

Venezuela And Guyana Agree To Peaceful Resolution In Long Standing Border Dispute

In a significant development aimed at deescalating tensions, Venezuela and Guyana have reached an agreement to avoid the use of force and threats in their ongoing dispute over the resource-rich territory of Essequibo. The region, known for its enormous oil reserves, has been at the centre of contention since Venezuela revived its claim to the land following the discovery of oil off its coast in 2015.

The Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro, and his Guyanese counterpart, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, reaffirmed their commitment to “good neighbourliness” and “peaceful coexistence” during a tense meeting held in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday. They jointly declared that neither country would resort to force or threats against each other, even in relation to existing controversies between them.

To address matters concerning Essequibo, both leaders agreed to establish a joint commission comprising foreign ministers and officials from both countries. This commission will serve as a platform for dialogue and negotiation in resolving the long-standing dispute. Furthermore, Maduro and Ali announced their intention to meet again in Brazil within the next three months to continue discussions and seek comprehensive solutions.

Expressing his satisfaction with the meeting, President Maduro thanked President Ali for his candidness and willingness to engage in broad dialogue. Through Bolivarian Peace Diplomacy, Maduro emphasized the importance of raising historical reasons, seeking understanding, and finding a peaceful resolution to the controversy over Essequibo.

The dispute over Essequibo dates back over a century, but tensions have escalated recently, particularly after Venezuela claimed sovereignty over the region following a disputed referendum. On December 4, Venezuelan voters approved the referendum, leading to outcry in Guyana. The territory of Essequibo was awarded to Britain in 1899 by an international arbitral tribunal when Guyana was still under colonial rule. However, Venezuela has persistently disputed this decision, with President Maduro accusing Guyana, the United States, and oil firms of engaging in “legal colonialism” and robbing Venezuela of its rightful territory.

Guyana, on the other hand, maintains that the arbitral award is legally binding and sought the intervention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2018 to settle the matter definitively. Just recently, on December 1, the ICJ ordered Venezuela to refrain from taking any actions that would alter Guyana’s control over Essequibo.

With this recent agreement and commitment to peaceful dialogue, Venezuela and Guyana have taken a significant step towards resolving their long-standing border dispute. The establishment of a joint commission and the planned future meetings demonstrate a willingness to find a mutually acceptable solution and promote regional stability in South America.

 

Source: CNBC

Kuwait and Seychelles Discuss Visa Waiver Agreement and Air Link to Boost Travel

Kuwait And Seychelles Discuss Visa Waiver Agreement And Air Link To Boost Travel

In a meeting held at State House on Thursday, Mubarak Mohammad Alsehaijan, the Ambassador of Kuwait to Seychelles, paid a courtesy call on President Wavel Ramkalawan to discuss various areas of cooperation between the two countries. One of the key topics on the agenda was the possibility of implementing a visa waiver agreement and establishing an air link to facilitate increased travel between Kuwait and Seychelles.

The proposed visa waiver agreement aims to allow visa-free travel for citizens of both countries, promoting easier and more seamless movement between the two nations. Ambassador Alsehaijan expressed optimism that this agreement could be realized within the next two years, which would significantly enhance travel and tourism opportunities.

During the meeting, both sides acknowledged the importance of fostering stronger ties between Kuwait and Seychelles. The establishment of an air link was seen as a crucial step in realizing this goal, as it would facilitate the movement of travellers and promote economic growth in sectors such as trade and tourism.

Seychelles, an archipelago located in the western Indian Ocean, established diplomatic relations with Kuwait on July 11, 1988. Over the years, the cooperation between the two countries has primarily cantered around the Kuwait Fund, which has provided financial assistance to support Seychelles’ development projects. Projects related to fisheries, sewage, and infrastructure have received funding totalling $12 million, with an additional $1.5 million in grants.

In a separate meeting earlier this week, Ambassador Alsehaijan met with Seychelles’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sylvestre Radegonde. Discussions focused on the potential signing of a general cooperation agreement, which would establish a framework for collaboration in various mutually beneficial areas. The ambassador highlighted the potential for Kuwaiti investors to contribute to Seychelles’ trade and tourism sectors, suggesting the organization of a visit by representatives from the private sector in both countries, facilitated by the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce.

The field of tourism, a key contributor to the Seychelles economy, was also a topic of discussion during the meetings. Both sides recognized the importance of strengthening cooperation in this sector to further enhance the tourism offerings and attract visitors from Kuwait to Seychelles and vice versa.

As the discussions progress, the governments of Kuwait and Seychelles are hopeful that the proposed visa waiver agreement and air link will pave the way for increased bilateral cooperation and foster closer ties between the two nations.

 

Source: Seychelles News Agency

United States Ready to Resume Cooperation with Niger on the Condition of Swift Transition from Military Regime

U.s Secretary Of State Antony Blinken At The Diori Hamani International Airport In Niamey

In a statement made on Wednesday in Niamey, the United States expressed its willingness to renew cooperation with Niger, contingent upon the military regime that seized power in a coup at the end of July committing to a notably brief transition period.

Following the July 26 coup that ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum, Washington suspended its cooperation with Niger. However, during her visit to Niamey, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for African Affairs held discussions with several Nigerien officials, including Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, who was appointed by the military.

The U.S. Deputy Secretary of State emphasised the necessity for the Nigerien military to announce “a deadline for a rapid and credible transition” leading to the establishment of a democratically elected government. She stated to the press on Wednesday, “We have confirmed that we are ready to resume our cooperation if the CNSP (military regime) takes the steps I have outlined.”

The military regime has proposed a maximum three-year transition period before transferring power back to civilians, with the duration to be determined through a national dialogue that will be convened imminently.

Regarding the fate of former President Mohamed Bazoum, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Ms. Phee, indicated that they have “agreed to reach a satisfactory solution” for him, his family, and members of his government. Since the coup, Bazoum has been confined to his residence along with his wife and son, while several former dignitaries have either been arrested or fled the country.

On Sunday, Ms. Phee participated in a summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) presidents in Abuja, where the organization maintained strict economic and financial sanctions imposed on Niger following the coup. The easing of these sanctions is conditioned upon a notably “short transition.”

“I encourage the CNSP (military regime) to respond positively to the ECOWAS offer for negotiation; the United States supports the resolutions of the regional organisation,” clarified the U.S. diplomat.

Additionally, the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Niger, Kathleen FitzGibbon, is expected to present her credentials to the authorities soon, as confirmed by Nigerien Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakary Yaou Sangaré in early December. The arrival of the ambassador further signals the United States’ commitment to engaging with Niger and fostering diplomatic relations.

 

Source: Africa News

Kenyan Government Implements Measures to Boost Diaspora Investment and Employment Opportunities

Kenyan Government Implements Measures To Boost Diaspora Investment And Employment Opportunities

President William Ruto has announced the implementation of robust measures aimed at promoting local investment by the Kenyan Diaspora. Recognising the significant role that Kenyans living abroad play in the country’s development, President Ruto highlighted their contributions, particularly through remittances, which have surpassed the performance of major exports.

During the Diaspora Investment Conference held in Nairobi on Wednesday, President Ruto expressed the government’s commitment to creating a seamless network that facilitates, promotes, and supports Diaspora investment in Kenya. Emphasising the importance of harnessing the potential of Kenyans abroad, he outlined plans to leverage their knowledge, skills, and technology transfer for the benefit of the nation.

The government is implementing the Global Labour Market Strategy, aiming to facilitate employment opportunities for Kenyan youth abroad. This strategy seeks to connect skilled Kenyan workers with international job markets, enabling them to contribute to the economy while gaining valuable experience. President Ruto highlighted that this initiative would not only benefit individuals but also promote the transfer of knowledge and technology upon their return to Kenya.

In addition to fostering employment opportunities, President Ruto announced the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to attract foreign direct investments and expand job prospects within the country. The government has allocated funds for infrastructure development in six SEZs, aiming to create an environment that offers incentives to investors while enhancing Kenya’s manufacturing and export capacities.

“Our goal is to expand job opportunities both locally and abroad for our youth,” President Ruto affirmed. By promoting Diaspora investment and establishing SEZs, the government aims to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and strengthen Kenya’s position as a favourable investment destination.

The measures announced by President Ruto underscore the government’s commitment to leveraging the potential of the Kenyan Diaspora for the country’s development. By fostering collaboration and creating supportive frameworks, the government aims to harness the skills, knowledge, and financial resources of Kenyans abroad to drive economic progress and empower the nation’s youth.

 

Source: Kenya Presidency

Rwandans to Cast Votes in July 2024 Elections, as President Kagame Seeks Fourth Term

Rwandans To Cast Votes In July 2024 Elections, As President Kagame Seeks Fourth Term

The National Electoral Commission of Rwanda has announced that the country’s citizens will head to the polls on July 15, 2024, to elect their next deputies and president. The upcoming elections will see the current head of state, Paul Kagame, vying for a fourth term as president. Kagame, who has been the de facto leader of Rwanda since the end of the 1994 genocide, secured over 90% of the vote in the previous elections held in 2003, 2010, and 2017.

The Electoral Commission revealed that the election will encompass the selection of the President of the Republic and 53 deputies from a list proposed by political organisations or independent candidates. Campaigning for the candidates will be permitted from June 22 to July 12, allowing them to present their visions and engage with the electorate.

In addition to the presidential and deputy elections, electoral colleges and committees will also choose twenty-four women parliamentarians, two youth representatives, and one representative for Rwandans with disabilities on July 16, according to the Electoral Commission.

President Kagame, in September, announced his candidacy for a fourth term, expressing gratitude for the confidence Rwandans have shown in him. He stated, “I am happy with the confidence Rwandans have shown in me. I will always serve them, as long as I can.” Controversial constitutional amendments made in the past enabled Kagame to win a third term and could potentially allow him to govern until 2034. He was re-elected as the head of his party, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), at its national congress in April.

While the government touts Rwanda as one of the most stable countries in Africa, some human rights groups accuse President Kagame of governing in an environment of fear that stifles dissent and freedom of expression. The country’s ranking in the Reporters Without Borders 2023 World Press Freedom Index stands at 131st out of 180 countries.

The opposition Green Party’s leader, Frank Habineza, is currently the only other candidate to have announced his candidacy for the 2024 elections.

Rwanda’s political landscape remains significant in the context of the country’s history, with the genocide that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in 1994. President Kagame, who was instrumental in ending the genocide, has faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses and the stifling of political opposition during his tenure.

As the election date approaches, Rwandans will have the opportunity to make their voices heard and shape the future direction of their country through the democratic process.

 

Source: Africa News

South Africa’s Constitutional Court Ruling Establishes Rights of Asylum Seekers and Condemns Visa Renewal Policy

South Africa's Constitutional Court Ruling Establishes Rights Of Asylum Seekers And Condemns Visa Renewal Policy

In a groundbreaking decision, the Constitutional Court has declared that the South African Home Affairs’ policy, which assumes that asylum seekers have “abandoned” their applications if they fail to renew their visas within one month of the visa’s expiry date, violates fundamental principles of refugee law. The court’s ruling emphasises that asylum seekers must be treated as refugees until their claims have reached a final determination.

The case was brought before the Constitutional Court by the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town, a trust dedicated to assisting migrant communities and displaced people. The organisation sought confirmation of the High Court’s order of invalidity, arguing that the relevant sections of the Refugees Act create a system that disregards the merits of an asylum seeker’s claim and instead ties their rights to their ability to comply with visa renewal requirements. This approach, Scalabrini contended, directly contravened the principle of non-refoulement under international law, which prohibits the return of individuals to countries where they would face torture, inhumane treatment, or harm.

Constitutional Court Justice Steven Majiedt noted that the respondents did not oppose the confirmation of the constitutional invalidity of the impugned provisions. They conceded that the problematic provisions needed to be eliminated entirely.

Justice Majiedt further stated, “The impugned provisions violate a number of constitutional rights. They violate the right to dignity by cutting off asylum seekers from essential services required for a dignified life. Moreover, they expose asylum seekers and their children to constant risks of arrest and deportation, which infringe upon the rights to life and personal liberty, all because a visa has not been renewed.”

Consequently, the court confirmed the high court’s declaration of constitutional invalidity, as the impugned subsections violated the principle of non-refoulement, infringed upon the right to dignity, unjustifiably limited the rights of children, and were deemed irrational and arbitrary.

The ruling holds significant implications for the treatment of asylum seekers in South Africa. It establishes that asylum seekers should be afforded the same protections as refugees until their claims have been thoroughly evaluated. The decision underscores the importance of upholding human rights and preventing the unjust treatment of vulnerable individuals.

As part of the ruling, the Minister of Home Affairs has been instructed to bear the costs associated with the case, emphasising the need for accountability and adherence to constitutional principles.

This landmark judgement marks a significant step forward in ensuring the fair and just treatment of asylum seekers within South Africa’s immigration system. It highlights the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals seeking refuge, regardless of their visa status.

 

Source: SABC News

Severe Drought Threatens Zimbabwe’s Food Security as Maize Harvest Expected to Halve in 2024

Severe Drought Threatens Zimbabwe's Food Security As Maize Harvest Expected To Halve In 2024

In a concerning announcement made on Wednesday, Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister, Mthuli Ncube, revealed that the country’s staple maize harvest is predicted to plummet to 1.1 million tons in 2024. This drastic reduction, attributed to an El Nino-induced drought, highlights an impending grain deficit that poses a significant risk to food security in impoverished households.

With an annual requirement of approximately 1.8 million tons of maize for human consumption, Zimbabwe had projected a maize harvest of 2.3 million tons in 2023. However, the United States Agency for International Development’s Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) has cautioned that governments, donors, and humanitarian organisations should brace themselves for elevated food assistance needs in Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar throughout 2024 and early 2025, as El Nino disrupts agriculture in these regions.

El Nino, a natural climate phenomenon characterised by unusually warm surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific, leads to global weather pattern alterations. It is expected to severely impact crop yields during the upcoming 2023/24 farming season. Farmers in Zimbabwe, already grappling with frequent droughts alongside a protracted economic crisis, have encountered difficulties in planting the staple grain due to high temperatures and dry conditions associated with El Nino.

According to Zimbabwe’s cabinet, by December 10th, only 95,156 hectares of land had been cultivated with summer crops, primarily grains. This represents a stark decline from the 465,707 hectares planted by the same time last year.

During a World Bank briefing on Zimbabwe’s 2024 economic prospects held in Harare, Minister Ncube projected a 4.9% contraction in the country’s agriculture sector next year due to the El Nino-induced drought. He remarked, “Maize is the most impacted, with estimated output plummeting to 1.1 million metric tonnes.”

Last month, Minister Ncube had already warned that Zimbabwe’s economic growth would decelerate to 3.5% in 2024, aligning with the World Bank’s forecasts, down from 5.5% in 2023. This downward revision is primarily attributable to the adverse effects of the impending drought.

The combination of dwindling maize harvests, a struggling economy, and the potential threat of food insecurity underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to mitigate the impact of the impending crisis. The Zimbabwean government, along with international partners, must mobilise resources and support to ensure the availability of adequate food supplies and safeguard the well-being of vulnerable communities.

 

Source: News24 SA