Category: Politics

### in the storm of accusations: the Rasool-Johnson affair

In an increasingly polarized media landscape, Rw Johnson’s attack on Ebrahim Rasool and the Fatshimetric newspaper underlines the dangerous blurred between opinion and disinformation. By calling fatshimetrics as anti -Semitic without substantial evidence, Johnson illustrates a disturbing trend: criticizing the media without rigorous verification. This approach does not only stigmatize a media, but also nourishes a climate where voices say can be stifled. At a time when disinformation thrives, journalists’ responsibility became crucial. The situation invites readers to refine their critical thinking and navigate the ocean of information with discernment. The Rasool-Johnson affair is above all a sign of the urgency of preserving the quality of information and defending the truth in the face of the storm of unfounded allegations.

** Strengthening the capacities of the Congolese national police: towards sustainable security or increased repression? **

The recent strengthening of the Congolese National Police (PNC) by the acquisition of 100 riot vehicles and 600 electric shields raises important questions. If this initiative aims to meet the security challenges, especially in the face of the “Kuluna” in Kinshasa, it calls for a deeper reflection on its relevance and its implications. The experience of other African countries shows that strengthening the police without approaching the fundamental causes of insecurity can cause a climate of mistrust. The new equipment must be accompanied by adequate training and a desire to build relationships of trust with the population. In the end, the success of this initiative will depend on the commitment of the authorities to favor an integrated approach which deals with the socio -political issues of the country. The question remains: will the DRC choose sustainable security or will it lock itself in a repression cycle?

### DRC: Between political farce and popular awakening

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is often perceived as an example of political absurdity, but its reality is much more complex. Since the disorderly exploitation of its wealth, marked by the colonial heritage and a corrupt government, the country faces a paradox: while the economic giants benefit from its resources, the people remain locked in poverty. However, a flame of hope emerges. Congolese youth, carried by innovative movements and local initiatives, begins to redefine the country’s narrative, going from an image of victimization to that of a nation in Renaissance. With an investment in education, sustainable agriculture and civic mobilization, the DRC could not only get out of the political farce, but also become a symbol of hope for all of Africa. Change will come from below, from a powerful collective movement where each voice will count.

** Gabón: Between coup d’etat and hopes of democratic renewal **

Gabon has been going through a pivotal period since the coup d’etat of August 30, 2023, orchestrated by General Oligui Nguema, who overthrew President Ali Bongo. While the general positions himself as a candidate of the people for the presidential elections of 2024, his speech promises to break with partisan influences, evoking a “popular revolution”. However, this transition is accompanied by major concerns about the exclusion of opposition figures, questioning the regime’s commitment to a real democracy. At the same time, the promise of a transparent trial for the members of the Old Regime raises doubts about the intentions behind this justice, often used as a political tool in other African military governments. While the future of Gabon is taking shape, the challenge for General Nguema will be to find a balance between maintaining his power and the establishment of a sincere dialogue with the opposition, in order to avoid popular disenchantment and to build a real democracy.

### Istanbul revolt: a symbol of democratic resistance

The arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, charismatic mayor of Istanbul, is not limited to a power struggle, but reveals a socio-political landscape in full change in Türkiye. Thousands of demonstrators come together to denounce the growing repression of the Erdogan government, highlighting tensions around democracy and civil rights in a country in crisis. The repressive methods used to disperse crowds recall similar contexts elsewhere in the world, emphasizing the tendency to perceive dissent as a threat rather than a chance of dialogue.

The accusations of corruption against Imamoglu are largely perceived as a political stratagem, strengthening skepticism as for judicial independence in Türkiye. While economic dissatisfaction grows, in particular among a disillusioned youth, the protest takes on a collective dimension, carried by the hope of a better future. In this climate of revolt, the imprisonment of Imamoglu could galvanize a popular movement, redefining the relation of political force before the elections of 2028. While the shadow of repression weighs on Turkish society, the collective desire to aspire to democracy and social justice could change the course of history, not only in Turkey, but also beyond its borders.

** Political consultations in the DRC: an urgent quest for legitimacy and security **

On March 24, 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo began political consultations under the aegis of Eberand Kolongele, special advisor to the president, in order to create a government of national unity. This process occurs in a context of increasing security tensions and deep political divisions. Despite the call to the unity of the President of the Senate, Sama Lukonde, certain political parties, including the FCC of Joseph Kabila, denounce an attempt to “flee forward” from the regime, exacerbating a culture of distrust that plagues Congolese politics.

In this climate, an inclusive dialogue is looming as a necessity to restore confidence. The model proposed by CENCO-ECC, aimed at integrating civil society, could be more effective than current government consultations. The issues are not limited to the DRC, because internal conflicts have repercussions throughout the Great Lakes region, where international support could prove decisive.

Faced with these challenges, the need for revitalized civic commitment is more crucial than ever. Congolese must not only demand political reforms, but also transform mistrust into hope and division into unity. The success of this quest towards a government of national unity is not simply a question of strategy, but an imperative for the survival and the future of a long experienced people.

** Istanbul in boiling: on March 23, a historical challenge **

On March 23, 2024, tens of thousands of demonstrators invaded the place of the town hall of Istanbul, giving a new impetus to the struggle for democracy in Türkiye. This demonstration, marked by the absence of the mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem Imamoglu, incarcerated under an increasingly authoritarian regime, symbolizes an unprecedented, transcendent social mobilization of traditional cleavages. The diversity of participants – young people, workers, women and retirees – illustrates a collective call for freedom in the face of a system perceived as corrupt.

The uprising has resonated internationally, arousing strong reactions from political figures and human rights organizations worldwide. The events of March 23 are not to be considered as a simple news item, but rather as the reflection of a deep societal quest, ready to challenge increasing authoritarianism. At the dawn of future elections, tensions could intensify, suggesting a decisive turning point for Turkey and potentially for the whole region.

### Mozambique: a crucial meeting for the future of the country

On March 23, 2024, the first meeting between President Daniel Chapo and the opponent Venancio Mondlane and Maputo could mark a turning point in the political history of Mozambique, a country still shaken by the repercussions of the disputed elections of October 2023. This appointment, held in a climate of instability due to violence and growing insecurity, raises crucial issues: is this dialogue. A simple maneuver to soothe tensions?

History of political dialogues in Mozambique, often tinged with ineffectiveness in the face of power issues, the Chapo-Mondlane meeting must be vigil. The lessons of the past indicate that for a dialogue to lead to lasting reforms, it is necessary to implement concrete measures, in particular on the management of post-electoral violence and the protection of freedom of expression.

While insecurity hardly strikes populations, especially in regions like Cabo Delgado, the pressure is strong on the leaders so that they really unite in a peace process. The population hopes more than symbolic gestures; She awaits concrete actions. If Chapo and Mondlane can overcome their disputes, they could open the way to a peaceful and inclusive future for all Mozambicans.

** War on signal: When national security comes up against the media bubble **

On March 15, 2025, a shocking incident shakes up the Trump government: a journalist mistakenly received sensitive information on an American military operation in Yemen, revealing the disturbing flaws in national security. This case is not isolated; Almost 30 % of information leaks come from human errors, exacerbated by the use of messaging platforms as a signal. While geopolitical tensions in Yemen continue, criticisms fuse concerning the effectiveness of American strikes and their humanitarian consequences. Beyond the partisan debates that emerge, this situation raises fundamental questions about transparency, responsibility and ethics in government communication. It becomes urgent to reformulate the communication channels to combine national security and public law to information, because modern war is played as much on the front of ideas as in the field.

### Senegal: a year after the election of Bassirou Diomaye Faye – between hopes and uncertainties

On March 24, 2024, Senegal marked a decisive turning point with the election of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the first opposition candidate to take the reins of the country in the first round. One year after this emblematic victory, the Senegalese wonder if the promises of transparency and reform really translate into tangible changes.

Although its administration has made efforts to combat corruption and improve governance, economic reality, marked by an alarming public debt and an increase in the cost of living, threatens to tarnish this momentum. The expectations of the population face a dilemma: the urgent need for unpopular reforms, which could rekindle social tensions.

In parallel, the parliamentary majority must act quickly under the pressure of citizens, while international resources, in particular the IMF, arouse fears of increased dependence. At this decisive crossroads, the future of Senegal will depend on the capacity of President Faye to transform his promises into concrete actions, while preserving a constructive dialogue with the people. The general context places the country on an uncertain path, marked by challenges to be met and hopes to navigate.