New Post Africa

Category: Africa

  • SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) has commenced a pre‑election goodwill assessment mission in the Republic of Zambia, engaging stakeholders ahead of the country’s General Election scheduled for 13 August 2026.

    The mission is led by Ambassador Joseph Nourrice, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Seychelles, and Dr Leonard Sesa, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Botswana. They are supported by officers from the SADC Secretariat.

    According to the Council, the team is holding consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including Government, political parties, civil society, and individual experts on elections and democracy.

    The SEAC mission is being conducted in line with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, which require the Council to undertake pre‑election assessments in member states preparing for national polls. These missions are designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to democratic standards across the region.

    The Council emphasised that the goodwill mission is not only about observing preparations but also about encouraging dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and democratic elections.

    By engaging Zambia’s political actors and institutions, SEAC aims to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and reaffirm SADC’s commitment to supporting member states in upholding democratic values.

  • Amnesty International stands with Kenyans as fuel protests turn violent

    Amnesty International stands with Kenyans as fuel protests turn violent

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — Amnesty International Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the escalating unrest in Kenya, where protests against rising energy costs have turned deadly, prompting a heavy crackdown by security forces. The rights group said it stands in solidarity with Kenyans and urged the National Police Service to respect, protect, and facilitate the right to peaceful assembly, association, and expression.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, Amnesty called for an independent and effective investigation into the killings that occurred during the demonstrations. The organisation noted that the protests were triggered by a sharp increase in fuel prices announced last week by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which raised costs by up to 23.5 per cent.

    The hike led to nationwide transport strikes organised by the Kenya Transport Sector Alliance, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. As tensions flared, violent clashes erupted in Nairobi, where police fired teargas and arrested dozens of protesters. At least four people were confirmed dead and several others injured.

    “We stand in solidarity with Kenyans and call on the National Police Service to respect, protect and facilitate the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, association, and expression. The killings at protests must be promptly, independently and effectively investigated,” Amnesty said.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that the Government of Kenya announced a KSh 10 per litre reduction in diesel prices as part of measures to cushion citizens from the rising cost of fuel linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. The decision followed negotiations between government officials and public transport stakeholders aimed at easing tensions.

    Authorities also adjusted kerosene prices to narrow the gap with diesel and discourage adulteration by unscrupulous dealers. Despite the concessions, transport unions continued to demand deeper cuts. Following a meeting on Tuesday morning, both sides agreed to suspend the strike for one week to allow further dialogue.

    The Ministry of Interior and National Administration condemned the violence, looting, and destruction that accompanied Monday’s protests, describing the unrest as politically motivated and hijacked by rogue actors. It cited the looting of Khetia supermarkets, the burning of a UDA office in Wote, Makueni County, and the torching of trucks at the Rironi–Mau Summit project site as deliberate acts meant to spread fear and intimidate government supporters.

    The ministry also confirmed the death of Ms Rachel Wandeto, who was attacked during the protests, linking the incident to a broader scheme by political actors to incite intolerance and ethnic division. It vowed to intensify efforts against organised crime and ensure that lawlessness does not take root.

    Government officials said four people were killed and more than 30 were injured in the unrest, pledging that those responsible for the violence and destruction would face prosecution. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that no one will be allowed to exploit public grievances for political gain.

    The unfolding crisis has drawn international attention, with rights groups urging restraint and accountability, as Kenya grapples with economic pressure and public anger.

  • Government debunks fake public holiday notice for Arsenal fans after a 22-year wait

    Government debunks fake public holiday notice for Arsenal fans after a 22-year wait

    GABORONE, Botswana (NPA) — The Government of Botswana has dismissed as fake a viral statement falsely claiming that the Office of the President had declared a public holiday to celebrate Arsenal Football Club’s Premier League triumph after a 22-year wait. The fabricated document, dated 17th May 2026, circulated widely on social media under the headline “Public Holiday for Arsenal Fans: Celebrating Arsenal’s Premier League Triumph.”

    In a firm rebuttal, the government clarified: “NO, THERE IS NO HOLIDAY FOR ARSENAL FANS.” Officials described the circulating letter as a deliberate act of misinformation and urged the public to disregard it.

    The fake release had attributed congratulatory remarks to President Duma Gideon Boko, allegedly praising Arsenal’s victory and encouraging citizens to take the day off to celebrate. It even called on public and private institutions to grant Arsenal supporters leave and host community events in honour of the club’s success.

    The counterfeit statement read in part: “His Excellency President Dumada Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Arsenal Football Club and their supporters worldwide following the club’s outstanding achievement in winning the Premier League title for the 2025/26 season.” It went on to claim that the President had declared Wednesday, 17th May 2026, a national holiday for fans to “celebrate responsibly and with pride.”

    Across the forged document, a large red overlay marked “FAKE!”, confirming its inauthenticity.

    The Office of the President emphasised that no such directive was issued and that official government communications are only released through verified channels.

    Authorities have warned citizens against sharing unverified information online, noting that such fabrications can mislead the public and damage the credibility of official institutions. The government reiterated its commitment to transparency and urged media outlets and social media users to verify all statements before publication.

  • Amnesty International demands RSF remove commander ‘Abu Lulu’ amid war crimes allegations

    Amnesty International demands RSF remove commander ‘Abu Lulu’ amid war crimes allegations

    KHARTOUM, Sudan (NPA) — Amnesty International has called on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to immediately remove commander Al‑Fatih Abdallah Idris, widely known as “Abu Lulu”, from the battlefield following fresh reports that he has returned to combat in Sudan despite facing serious war crimes allegations.

    Abu Lulu was reportedly detained by RSF leadership in October 2025 after videos circulated online showing him executing captives in civilian clothing. However, a new Reuters investigation has revealed that he re‑emerged in Kordofan in March 2026, raising alarm among human rights groups.

    “The RSF commander known as Abu Lulu has previously been accused of war crimes committed during the attacks that resulted in the fall of El Fasher last year. It is alarming to learn he has returned to combat without any investigation into the allegations. The RSF leadership must remove Abu Lulu from the battlefield and from their ranks immediately, and he must be investigated for the war crime of wilful killings,” said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.

    Amnesty stressed that any accountability process must be handled by competent and credible judicial mechanisms, guaranteeing fair trial standards without resorting to the death penalty.

    The organisation reiterated its demand for the RSF to end attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to guarantee safe passage for those fleeing violence. The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has already killed tens of thousands and displaced more than 12 million people, making it the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.

    Amnesty has previously documented war crimes by the RSF and allied Arab militias, including ethnically targeted attacks against the Masalit and other non‑Arab communities in West Darfur.

    The return of Abu Lulu to active combat underscores the broader challenge of accountability in Sudan’s war, where allegations of atrocities continue to mount against both RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces. Amnesty insists that without credible investigations and removal of commanders implicated in abuses, the cycle of violence and impunity will persist, deepening the humanitarian catastrophe.

  • Kenyan Government reduces diesel price, suspends transport strike amid fuel crisis talks

    Kenyan Government reduces diesel price, suspends transport strike amid fuel crisis talks

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — The Government of Kenya has announced a reduction in the price of diesel by KSh 10 per litre as part of measures to cushion citizens from the rising cost of fuel triggered by the ongoing Middle East crisis. The decision follows negotiations between the government and public transport sector stakeholders aimed at easing tensions over high fuel prices.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration said the government remains committed to addressing the challenges faced by Kenyans due to global fuel price hikes. It noted that the administration had earlier reduced VAT on petroleum products by 8% and utilised the Petroleum Development Levy to stabilise prices. Despite these interventions, fuel costs remained high, prompting further action.

    The government also adjusted the price of kerosene to bridge the gap with diesel and deter adulteration by unscrupulous dealers. However, public transport stakeholders continued to demand deeper cuts. Following a meeting held on Tuesday morning, both sides agreed to suspend the ongoing strike for one week to allow room for further negotiations.

    The statement, signed by Cabinet Secretary Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, confirmed that the transport representatives condemned the violence and destruction witnessed during Monday’s protests, distancing themselves from the unrest. The government reiterated its commitment to peaceful dialogue and urged Kenyans to use legal means to express grievances.

    “The Government remains fully committed to addressing concerns raised by Kenyans at all times and calls for peaceful and legal means of airing grievances,” Murkomen said.

    The latest measures, according to the authorities, are part of broader efforts to stabilise fuel prices and maintain public order amid economic pressures.

  • Somaliland marks 35 years of sovereignty, pushes for wider international recognition

    Somaliland marks 35 years of sovereignty, pushes for wider international recognition

    HARGEISA, Somaliland (NPA) — Somaliland is still celebrating the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its sovereignty, as millions of citizens at home and abroad marked the occasion on May 18 in what authorities described as a powerful demonstration of national unity and pride.

    In a statement issued by Hussein Deyr, Spokesperson to the President, the government said the celebrations reflected Somaliland’s unwavering commitment to its sovereignty and independence.

    According to the statement, Somaliland’s sovereignty is “not merely a political aspiration, but a deeply held national conviction shared collectively by its people.”

    Authorities disclosed that the independence celebrations held in Hargeisa attracted delegations from more than 25 countries, describing the turnout as evidence of Somaliland’s growing diplomatic relevance and international credibility.

    “This year’s commemoration also coincided with a major diplomatic milestone, as the President of the State of Israel received the credentials of Somaliland’s first Extraordinary Ambassador accredited to a recognised sovereign state; a powerful symbol of Somaliland’s expanding global engagement and irreversible march toward international recognition,” the statement said.

    The government also expressed appreciation to countries and individuals supporting Somaliland’s diplomatic aspirations. “We are a very grateful nation that never forgets those who stand with us,” the statement added.

    At the same time, Somaliland issued a strong warning to its opponents, insisting that its journey toward full international recognition is irreversible. “The history of Somaliland as a sovereign nation is moving forward, and there is nothing you can do to stop it,” the government declared.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that Israel received Somaliland’s first ambassador following the arrival of Mohamed Hagi, who presented his credentials to Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem.

    The diplomatic breakthrough followed Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025, making it the first United Nations member state to officially recognise Somaliland’s sovereignty — a move that significantly strengthened Somaliland’s decades-long quest for international recognition and reignited debate over Somalia’s political future.

    Here’s a polished version of your paragraph, tightened for clarity and impact while keeping your style intact:

    Ambassador Hagi announced today that the Republic of Somaliland will establish its Embassy in Jerusalem, while Israel will open its Embassy in Hargeisa — a move he described as a clear reflection of the deepening friendship, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation between the two nations.

  • Kenya suspends nationwide transport strike after deadly fuel price protests

    Kenya suspends nationwide transport strike after deadly fuel price protests

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — A nationwide public transport strike in Kenya over rising fuel prices linked to the Iran war has been suspended after the government reached an interim agreement with associations representing bus and minibus operators.

    The strike, which triggered widespread protests across the country, was called off on Tuesday following talks between government officials and transport stakeholders.

    Speaking at a joint press conference, Kipchumba Murkomen said the strike had been suspended for one week to allow further negotiations between the government and transport operators.

    The protests turned deadly on Monday, with authorities confirming that at least four people were killed while about 30 others sustained injuries during demonstrations linked to the strike and the worsening cost-of-living crisis.

    Negotiations held on the first day of the strike reportedly failed to produce an agreement, despite the government offering to reduce diesel prices by about 10 Kenyan shillings per litre.

    However, transport operators rejected the proposal, insisting on a deeper reduction of 46 shillings per litre, arguing that diesel remains the primary fuel used by public transport operators.

    Opiyo Wandayi disclosed that the government’s proposed reduction would result in a revenue loss of approximately 2.7 billion Kenyan shillings, equivalent to about $20.79 million.

    The fuel crisis and transport shutdown sparked nationwide unrest, with protesters expressing anger over rising living costs and worsening economic conditions.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that the Kenyan Ministry of Interior and National Administration condemned the violence, looting and destruction that erupted during the demonstrations, describing the unrest as politically motivated and infiltrated by criminal elements.

    In a statement, the ministry acknowledged public frustration over soaring fuel prices but warned that attacks on public infrastructure, road blockades and destruction of property would only deepen the crisis.

    Authorities accused criminal groups of targeting government projects and pro-government figures during the protests.

    The government cited the looting of Khetia supermarkets, the burning of a UDA office in Wote, Makueni County, and the torching of trucks at the Rironi-Mau Summit project site as coordinated acts aimed at spreading fear and destabilising the country.

    Officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that those responsible for the violence and destruction would face the full weight of the law.

    The government also maintained that no individual or group would be allowed to exploit public grievances for political gain.

  • WHO raises alarm as Ebola outbreak spreads in eastern DRC without vaccine

    WHO raises alarm as Ebola outbreak spreads in eastern DRC without vaccine

    BUKAVU, DRC (NPA) — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed grave concern over the rapid spread of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that no vaccine is currently available to tackle the outbreak. Hundreds of suspected cases are being reported daily, with health workers racing to contain transmission.

    Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that 26 suspected deaths occurred within 24 hours, bringing fatalities to 131. Official figures show 516 suspected cases and 33 confirmed infections in DRC, alongside two confirmed cases in Uganda.

    WHO’s representative in DRC, Dr Anne Ancia, said more than 500 suspected cases have been identified, but only 30 confirmed so far. She explained that the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus, for which no vaccine or therapeutics exist.

    “We have significant uncertainty about the number of infections and how far the virus has spread,” she noted.

    The outbreak, first detected in Bunia, Ituri province, has now reached North Kivu, with confirmed cases in Butembo and Goma. Uganda has also reported imported cases.

    WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared the situation a public health emergency of international concern, citing the “scale and speed” of transmission.

    Detection was initially delayed because local tests returned negative results for the Zaire strain of Ebola. Only later did laboratory analysis in Kinshasa confirm the Bundibugyo virus. Symptoms such as fever, fatigue, diarrhoea, and vomiting complicated early diagnosis, with nosebleeds appearing only after several days of infection.

    WHO’s technical advisory group is reviewing candidate vaccines, including Ervebo, which targets the Zaire strain. Dr Ancia cautioned that it would take at least two months before any vaccine could be deployed. “It is not two months before the outbreak will be done. Remember the previous one, it took two years,” she warned.

    In the meantime, WHO is prioritising community engagement to counter misinformation and promote sanitary practices, particularly around funerals. Dr Ancia stressed that coercive measures could backfire, leading families to hide bodies or patients refusing treatment. Health workers are engaging schools, churches, and community leaders to build trust.

    The outbreak is unfolding in a region destabilised by conflict. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that Ituri and North Kivu host more than two million internally displaced people, with limited healthcare capacity. Vulnerable refugee populations — including 11,000 South Sudanese in Ituri and over 2,000 Rwandan and Burundian refugees in Goma — require urgent preventive assistance.

    WHO has deployed over 40 health professionals and additional diagnostic supplies to support the government‑led response. Officials stress that the combination of insecurity, displacement, and lack of vaccines makes this outbreak one of the most complex public health emergencies in recent years.

  • Kenya government condemns violence, looting in fuel protests; vows crackdown as 4 killed, 30 injured

    Kenya government condemns violence, looting in fuel protests; vows crackdown as 4 killed, 30 injured

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — The Kenyan Ministry of Interior and National Administration has condemned the chaos, looting, and violence that erupted during nationwide protests against rising fuel prices on Monday, 18 May 2026, describing the unrest as politically motivated and hijacked by rogue actors.

    In a press statement, the ministry acknowledged public frustration over high fuel costs but warned that vandalism, road blockades, and attacks on property would only worsen the situation. It said the government, through the National Treasury and the Ministries of Energy and Transport, is engaging transport stakeholders to find solutions to the price increases.

    Authorities expressed concern that criminal elements had been mobilised to target government projects and pro-government leaders. The statement cited the looting of Khetia supermarkets, the burning of a UDA office in Wote, Makueni County, and the torching of trucks at the Rironi-Mau Summit project site as deliberate acts meant to spread fear and intimidate supporters of the government.

    The ministry also condemned the violent attack on Ms Rachel Wandeto, who died earlier that morning, linking it to a broader scheme by political actors to incite intolerance and ethnic division. It vowed to intensify the fight against organised crime and ensure that lawlessness does not take root.

    The government confirmed that four people were killed and over 30 were injured in the protests, pledging that the full force of the law will be brought against those responsible for the violence and destruction. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that no one will be allowed to exploit public grievances for political gain.

  • ICC to open confirmation of charges hearing in case against Khalid Mohammed Ali Al-Hashri

    ICC to open confirmation of charges hearing in case against Khalid Mohammed Ali Al-Hashri

    THE HAGUE, Netherlands (NPA) — The International Criminal Court (ICC) will begin confirmation of charges hearings in the case of Prosecutor v. Khalid Mohammed Ali Al-Hashri on 19 May 2026 at 10:00 local time in The Hague. The proceedings will be held before Pre-Trial Chamber I, composed of Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc (Presiding), Judge Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansou, and Judge Maria del Socorro Flores Liera.

    Al-Hashri, a former senior official at Mitiga Prison in Libya, is accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity between 1 May 2014 and 30 June 2020. The charges include imprisonment, torture, cruel treatment, sexual violence, killings, attempted killings, enslavement, and persecution of detainees. Prosecutors allege he was responsible for 17 counts of crimes committed against thousands of individuals held at Mitiga.

    He was arrested in Germany on 16 July 2025 under an ICC warrant and transferred to ICC custody on 1 December 2025, making his first appearance on 3 December 2025.

    The hearings, scheduled for 19–21 May 2026, will allow the prosecution, defence, and victims’ representatives to present oral arguments. Judges will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial. If charges are confirmed, the case will move to the Trial Chamber.

    The ICC has announced that the hearings will be broadcast online with a 30-minute delay, and attendance will be open to diplomats, civil society, accredited journalists, and the public under strict security protocols.