Pope Leo XIV has called on Israel to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid into Gaza, expressing deep concern over the worsening conditions in the Palestinian territory. During his first weekly general audience on Wednesday in St. Peter’s Square, the newly elected pope described the situation in Gaza as “increasingly distressing and heartbreaking.” “I once again urge the opening of humanitarian corridors and an immediate end to hostilities, which continue to claim the lives of children, the elderly, and the infirm,” Pope Leo appealed. Formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8 to succeed the late Pope Francis.…
Author: Tosin Onisuuru
China has committed to contributing an additional $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) over the next five years, according to an announcement made by Liu Guozhong, Vice Premier of the State Council, during the World Health Assembly in Geneva on Tuesday. Liu reaffirmed China’s continued support for the global health agency, which is currently grappling with financial uncertainty following the United States’ decision to withdraw its funding. “The world is currently confronting the consequences of unilateralism and power politics, which pose significant threats to global health security,” Liu said. “Multilateral cooperation remains the most effective path to overcoming…
In the early hours of Tuesday, May 20, a verified X (formerly Twitter) account belonging to the Tanzania Police Force was compromised, leading to the circulation of alarming false information—including a fabricated announcement of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s death. The hacked account, which has more than 468,000 followers, was used by the attackers to post misleading content, including a live video broadcast. During the livestream, a fake statement in Swahili claimed the president had died, urging citizens to stay calm during the so-called “difficult period.” “With deep sorrow, we confirm the death of the president of the United Republic…
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled in favor of Equatorial Guinea in its longstanding territorial dispute with Gabon over a group of small islands located in the resource-rich Gulf of Guinea. In a binding judgment delivered on Monday, the ICJ affirmed that Equatorial Guinea holds legal ownership of the islands, referencing a 1900 agreement that divided colonial territories between France and Spain in West Africa. The court determined that this historical convention provided a valid basis for Equatorial Guinea’s claim. The court rejected Gabon’s claim, which was based on a 1974 agreement, stating that it did not…
Former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua has been deported from Tanzania, sparking diplomatic tensions and raising concerns about political repression in the East African region. Karua, a prominent human rights advocate, claimed she was forced to leave Tanzania alongside two colleagues—lawyer Gloria Kimani and activist Lynn Ngugi—after arriving to attend the court hearing of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing treason charges. The People’s Liberation Party (PLP), which Karua founded earlier this year, said the trio endured hours of unwarranted interrogation before being deported. They had traveled to Tanzania in solidarity with Lissu, leader of the opposition Chadema…
Hundreds of Rwandan refugees who fled to eastern Congo in the wake of the 1994 genocide have returned home, the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) confirmed on Saturday. The repatriation comes amid increased instability in the region, where Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have recently gained control of key areas. Most of the returnees were women and children. According to local authorities, 360 individuals crossed back into Rwanda in buses arranged by the Rwandan government, with escort and logistical support provided by UNHCR and Save the Children. The long-term goal is to repatriate approximately 2,000 people. “We are pleased to welcome our…
Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement released by his office on Sunday. The diagnosis followed a medical evaluation last Friday after Biden, 82, reported urinary symptoms. Doctors identified a small nodule on his prostate, which was later confirmed to be cancerous. “This represents a more aggressive form of the disease,” the statement said. “However, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective treatment options.” Biden and his family are currently reviewing available therapies. Medical experts classified the illness with…
Tanzania’s prominent opposition leader, Tundu Lissu, has appeared in court as his treason trial officially begins — a legal battle his party insists is politically driven. The charges were brought shortly after Lissu began advocating for electoral reforms ahead of the country’s scheduled general elections in October. Lissu, who could face the death penalty if convicted, attended the hearing on Monday. Despite the gravity of the situation, he appeared optimistic, telling supporters, “We will be fine, don’t worry at all.” The electoral commission has disqualified both Lissu and his party, Chadema, from contesting in the upcoming presidential election. This move…
The Vatican is set to host a monumental event this Sunday as Pope Leo officially begins his papacy with an inaugural Mass. The ceremony is attracting significant international attention, with an extraordinary lineup of global leaders expected to attend. From monarchs and presidents to prime ministers and top diplomats, this historic gathering underscores the continued global relevance of the Catholic Church. According to a statement released by the Vatican, the event will bring together high-profile representatives from over 40 countries and international bodies. The attendance of such dignitaries highlights the Pope’s influence not only within the religious world but also…
After three months on the sidelines, the Republic of Congo has been reinstated by FIFA, marking the end of a suspension triggered by governance concerns. Why FIFA Suspended Congo The suspension, imposed in February, was the result of what FIFA described as “third-party interference.” The interference stemmed from Congo’s Ministry of Sports allegedly taking control of the national football federation (FECOFOOT), including seizing its headquarters and key sporting facilities. Such actions are a direct violation of FIFA’s statutes, which strictly prohibit government involvement in the operations of national football associations. In response, FIFA—alongside the Confederation of African Football (CAF)—swiftly suspended…
