Author: Aïcha Abdou

Tchad’s democratic retreat: opposition crushed as one-party rule looms A wave of arrests and legal repression signals a dangerous return to past authoritarian patterns The Tchadian government has taken another decisive step toward silencing political dissent, sentencing eight opposition leaders to eight years in prison for allegedly plotting an anti-government march. Their coalition, the Groupe de concertation des acteurs politiques (GCAP), had planned a protest on May 2nd to highlight worsening governance failures. The very next day, the Supreme Court dissolved the GCAP entirely, effectively eliminating the country’s main opposition…

Relations between Morocco and the United Arab Emirates stand as a shining example of pragmatic cooperation and strategic alliance, rooted in deep historical ties forged by the late King Hassan II and Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. These bonds transcend conventional diplomacy, marked by shared political visions, reciprocal support, and a diversified economic partnership that addresses pressing global challenges. On June 2, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed King Mohammed VI in Rabat for a private visit, reinforcing the unbreakable bond between the two leaders and their nations.…

France-Morocco ties enter a new strategic phase with ambassador Philippe Lalliot’s arrival France’s newly appointed ambassador to Morocco has officially begun his duties, presenting his credentials to Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. This milestone follows his May appointment and signals a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and protecting French investments ahead of the 2030 World Cup. The Sahara factor and the strategic shift in relations Investments, infrastructure, and focus on 2030 Challenges of a new bilateral framework The arrival of a new ambassador usually remains confined to diplomatic circles, but Philippe…

International •Afrique Senegal’s path toward authoritarian rule Jean-Yves Camus Columnist CH Premium content 3 min read Share Share Senegal’s criminalization of homosexuality represents a historic turning point. For years, the nation’s political climate has grown increasingly polarized. Under the leadership of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Senegal appears to be transitioning toward authoritarianism, with the primary ideological compass shifting toward an aggressive rejection of Western values. Facebook Twitter Email By Aïcha Abdou — Senior correspondent

In Côte d’Ivoire, the Abidjan Autonomous District’s eviction policy has reached a new milestone with the demolition of the Zimbabwe neighborhood in Vridi-3. The operation, launched on June 2, targeted a 28-hectare area long occupied by a tightly-knit fishing community just a stone’s throw from the Port of Abidjan. Thousands of residents were forcibly removed within hours, leaving many in distress under what witnesses described as harsh conditions. This follows closely on the heels of the demolition of three informal settlements in Cocody, a upscale district in northern Abidjan. Urban…

Football fans across the world are buzzing as Côte d’Ivoire’s dazzling winger, Bazoumana Touré, finds himself at the center of a high-stakes transfer saga. At just 19 years old, the young talent has caught the eye of top European clubs, with Newcastle United currently locked in direct talks with TSG Hoffenheim to secure his signature. Newcastle United’s leadership has placed this transfer high on their summer agenda, determined to bolster their attacking lineup for the upcoming 2026/27 season. Should the deal go through, the move would not only mark a…

On June 2, 2026, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, President of the Gabonese Republic, revealed his upcoming international commitments during an appearance on national television. Among the highlights, he confirmed an official visit to France scheduled for July 20, 2026. While logistics remain under wraps, the political significance of this trip is clear. This visit follows the restoration of direct dialogue between Libreville and Paris, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations after the conclusion of Gabon’s transitional period. framing a robust bilateral agenda What can we expect from this high-level…

The political climate in Sénégal is growing increasingly volatile as the divide between Ousmane Sonko and the presidential camp deepens. During a recent address, the leader of Pastef delivered a stern warning, marking his most combative stance since the formation of the current administration. Drawing on his party’s significant influence within the National Assembly, the former Prime Minister highlighted his control over a critical institutional lever. “We command the National Assembly, and I could effectively bring this government down as early as tomorrow,” he proclaimed, emphasizing the strength of his…

Gabon court upholds detention of opposition leader Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze Gabonese opposition figure Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze remains behind bars after the country’s appeals court in Libreville rejected his request to nullify proceedings on Tuesday. His legal team argues the case is marred by procedural irregularities and that the charges—dating back to 2008—are time-barred under Gabonese law. Judicial panel dismisses nullity plea, extends detention Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze, a former Prime Minister and vocal critic of President Brice Oligui Nguema, has been held in custody since April 16 on suspicion of alleged breach of trust…