News from the African continent continues to evolve and keep us in suspense. This week, several events caught our attention. First, Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced that he would run for a fourth term in next year’s presidential election. The country’s de facto leader since the end of the 1994 genocide, Kagame has been praised for his efforts to rebuild and develop Rwanda, but his longevity in power also raises questions about democracy and political plurality in the country.
In Niger, the political situation remains tense as the deposed president’s lawyer filed a request with the Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States to restore constitutional order and hand over power to the president-elect. This case highlights the ongoing political tensions in the country and the need to find a peaceful solution to the crisis.
On the other side of the continent, DR Congo President Félix Tshisekedi called for an accelerated withdrawal of peacekeepers from his country during his speech to the United Nations General Assembly. Tshisekedi expressed frustration over the peacekeeping mission’s inability to effectively deal with armed groups operating in the east of the country. However, it is important to emphasize that the premature departure of the Blue Helmets could also leave a security vacuum and endanger the Congolese population.
Libya, for its part, was hit by deadly floods following the passage of storm Daniel. More than 43,000 people were displaced and the town of Derna was particularly devastated. Reconstruction efforts are underway, with communications restored in the city. However, the fragility of the situation in Libya and the presence of armed groups make the task even more complex.
In Ethiopia, violence has raised fears of a deterioration in the security situation. NGOs are mobilizing to renew the mandate of UN investigators to document war crimes committed in the country. Ethiopia is currently going through a critical period, with ethnic and political conflicts threatening the country’s stability. The international community must support efforts to resolve this crisis and ensure that those responsible for violence are held to account.
Finally, in the DRC, families in Goma are demanding justice after the violent repression of a demonstration by the army which cost the lives of nearly 60 civilians. These families bury their dead and demand answers about the tragic events that took place. It is essential that the truth comes out and those responsible for this repression are held to account.
Africa is a continent rich in events and challenges. It is important to stay informed and support the efforts of those fighting for democracy, justice and development. Let us remain attentive to African news and continue to promote an open and constructive dialogue on the continent’s issues.