Month: June 2026

Damien Glez Political cartoonist and commentator Abdourahamane Tiani The Head of State of Niger, Abdourahamane Tiani, has formally withdrawn the citizenship of prominent activist Mayra, a decision formalized through a presidential decree issued this week. The move has sparked intense debate across the country’s political and civil society circles. Activist Mayra, known for her vocal advocacy on human rights and social justice issues, has been a visible figure in Niger’s public discourse. Her recent criticisms of government policies appear to have triggered this unprecedented administrative action. The decree, while citing…

In a bold move that has sent ripples through Senegal’s economic discourse, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly, has reignited the conversation surrounding the nation’s public debt obligations. His remarks specifically focus on the potential classification of certain liabilities inherited from previous administrations as ‘odious debt’—a term that has gained traction in international legal and financial circles. Speaking in a high-profile forum, Sonko underscored the critical importance of transparency in public finances, framing it as a cornerstone for building a credible and sustainable economic governance framework. He argued that…

Politics Sonko clarifies stance on Senegal’s 2029 presidential race Addressing speculation about his potential candidacy in Senegal’s 2029 presidential election, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party, remains measured in his response. When questioned about whether he would run regardless of circumstances, Sonko emphasized the premature nature of such discussions. «There are many initiatives suggesting my candidacy in 2029, but I prefer to wait. My party will eventually decide its candidate, and we are not yet at that stage,» stated the National Assembly president. Regarding President Diomaye Faye’s potential bid…

The political landscape in Senegal remains tense as internal divisions within the ruling Pastef party continue to dominate discussions. While some members advocate for the potential removal of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, party leader Ousmane Sonko has deferred the matter to the organization’s governing bodies, emphasizing procedural integrity. Speaking to journalists, Sonko underscored the structured nature of Pastef, stressing that any exclusion decision must adhere strictly to the party’s established rules. “This will be decided in due course,” he stated. “Pastef operates with clear guidelines. The party is not a…

politics Gabon’s Parliament sets new standard for democratic accountability editorial team june 15, 2026 151 no comment Libreville, June 15, 2026 – A historic constitutional milestone is unfolding in Gabon as President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema delivers his first address to a joint session of Parliament, marking a transformative shift in the nation’s political landscape. This unprecedented address to the Congress, mandated by Article 59 of the Fifth Republic’s Constitution, signals more than just a communication exercise. It represents the consolidation of a new power structure where Parliament emerges as…