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M23 Rebels Seize Strategic Town of Masisi in Eastern DR Congo

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The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels captured the key town of Masisi in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday, raising alarms over an escalating humanitarian crisis, local officials said. 

Masisi, a major administrative and economic hub in North Kivu province with an estimated population of 40,000, fell under rebel control after heavy fighting. The town is located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of the provincial capital, Goma, and is rich in agriculture, livestock, and mineral resources. 

The March 23 Movement (M23), an armed militia supported by Rwanda, has expanded its territorial control in eastern DRC since 2021, displacing thousands of civilians and triggering widespread insecurity. Angola-mediated peace talks between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame were abruptly halted in December due to disagreements over the terms of a proposed deal. 

Alexis Bahunga, a North Kivu lawmaker, expressed dismay at the capture of Masisi. “The seizure of Masisi center by the M23 is deeply troubling,” Bahunga told AFP. He called on the Congolese government to strengthen the logistical and operational capacity of its military forces, the FARDC, to address the growing crisis. 

The fall of Masisi adds to the worsening humanitarian situation in eastern Congo, with thousands already displaced by M23’s ongoing campaign. Bahunga warned, “The capture of the town plunges the territory into a serious humanitarian crisis,” urging immediate action to alleviate the suffering of affected communities. 

The United Nations and other international organizations have highlighted the need for urgent aid to the region, where prolonged conflict has compounded existing challenges of poverty and displacement. 

The M23 rebellion, which began in 2012, was named after a failed peace agreement signed on March 23, 2009, between the Congolese government and former Tutsi rebels. Although officially defeated in 2013, the group resurged in 2021, claiming the DRC government had failed to honor past agreements. 

The conflict has further strained relations between Rwanda and the DRC, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of supporting the rebels—a claim Rwanda denies. 

French Authorities Arrest Two Algerian TikTok Influencers Over Alleged Incitement to Violence

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French authorities have arrested two Algerian men with significant TikTok followings, accusing them of publishing content inciting violence. The arrests come amid heightened tensions between France and Algeria, driven by political discord over the Western Sahara conflict and the imprisonment of a French-Algerian novelist.

The men were detained separately—one in Brest, western France, and the other near Grenoble in the southeast—on charges related to urging violent acts. The arrests reflect increasing strain in Franco-Algerian relations, particularly over post-colonial disagreements.

Influencers Arrested Amid Allegations of Terror Incitement

Authorities confirmed the arrest of “Imad Tintin,” a 31-year-old blogger, outside Grenoble on Friday. The influencer allegedly posted a TikTok video encouraging followers to “burn alive, kill, and rape on French territory.” Although the video was removed, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the content as “vile” and vowed swift legal action. “Nothing will go unanswered,” Retailleau stated on social media. 

Imad Tintin, who entered France in 2021, had applied for residency in 2023 following his marriage to a French citizen. The application was denied, and he now faces an expulsion order. Authorities arrested him alongside his twin brother, uncovering evidence used to produce videos that garnered over 800,000 views. Prosecutors have not disclosed the twin’s legal status. 

Second Arrest Linked to Alleged Terror Advocacy

In Brest, prosecutors charged a 25-year-old identified as “Youcef A.,” also known online as “Zazou Youssef.” He allegedly posted videos on December 31 calling for violent acts in France and Algeria. Living on a temporary French residency permit, he now faces trial on February 24 for “publicly advocating an act of terrorism.” A conviction could lead to seven years in prison and a €100,000 fine. 

TikTok confirmed banning accounts linked to both influencers for violating policies against hate speech. 

The arrests coincide with France’s renewed support for Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, a contested territory claimed by the Polisario Front separatists backed by Algeria. Algerian dissident Chawki Benzehra accused the Algerian regime of orchestrating social media campaigns to incite unrest, alleging the involvement of influencers like Imad Tintin and Zazou Youssef.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed concerns over Algeria’s commitment to a 2022 roadmap aimed at easing post-colonial tensions. Barrot criticized Algeria’s justification for detaining French-Algerian novelist Boualem Sansal, imprisoned since November on national security charges, and voiced worries about the writer’s health.

The French government’s crackdown on online extremism underscores its broader strategy to address rising tensions with Algeria while maintaining domestic security. 

Ghanaian-American Innovator Dr. Victor Lawrence Receives National Medal of Technology from President Joe Biden

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Dr. Victor Lawrence, a Ghanaian-born electrical engineer and telecommunications expert, has been awarded the prestigious National Medal of Technology by President Joe Biden in a ceremony at the White House. The medal is the highest honor for technological achievement in the United States, recognizing individuals whose innovations have significantly advanced technology and improved quality of life. 

Dr. Lawrence is celebrated for his groundbreaking work in digital signal processing, which was instrumental in the transition from analog to digital communication networks. His contributions laid the foundation for modern internet access technology and global data communications, marking him as a trailblazer in the field. 

With more than 20 patents to his name, Dr. Lawrence has been a driving force behind the digital infrastructure that underpins today’s interconnected world. Notably, he is the first African-born recipient of the National Medal of Technology, underscoring the global impact of his achievements. 

National Medal of Technology: A Legacy of Innovation 

The National Medal of Technology, established by Congress in 1980 and administered by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, honors innovators whose work has had a transformative effect on the economy and society. 

During the ceremony, President Biden commended this year’s recipients for addressing critical challenges such as climate change, disease treatment, and technological advancement. “These medalists embody the promise of America by pushing the boundaries of what is possible,” Biden said, highlighting their role in inspiring the next generation of scientific and technological leaders. 

Recognizing Excellence in Science and Technology 

Since its inception in 1985, the National Medal of Technology has recognized individuals and organizations whose vision, creativity, and determination have strengthened the U.S. economy and improved the quality of life globally. This year’s honorees include leaders in diverse fields, from lifesaving medical advancements to groundbreaking communication technologies. 

The 2023 recipients of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation include: 

– Martin Cooper 

– Jennifer A. Doudna 

– Eric R. Fossum 

– Paula T. Hammond 

– Kristina M. Johnson 

– Victor B. Lawrence 

– David R. Walt 

– Paul G. Yock 

– Feng Zhang 

Organizational recipients: 

– Moderna, Inc. 

– Pfizer Inc. 

Dr. Lawrence’s accomplishments exemplify the transformative power of science and technology in addressing global challenges. His innovations continue to inspire progress in telecommunications and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the field and solidifying his legacy as a global pioneer. 

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Zimbabwe Leads Global Alcohol Consumption Rankings by Wide Margin

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Zimbabwe has topped the global rankings for alcohol consumption per capita, consuming an average of 62.8 liters annually—nearly four times the global average of 16 liters—according to a report by Wisevoter. The figures put Zimbabwe significantly ahead of second-place Tunisia, which reports an average of 36.6 liters per capita. 

The top 10 alcohol-consuming countries, as listed in the report, are: 

1. Zimbabwe – 62.8 liters 

2. Tunisia – 36.6 liters 

3. Eswatini – 34.4 liters 

4. Maldives – 33.7 liters 

5. Afghanistan – 33.5 liters 

6. Namibia – 32.4 liters 

7. South Africa – 29.9 liters 

8. Algeria – 29.1 liters 

9. Turkey – 28.5 liters 

10. Iran – 28.4 liters 

Wisevoter detailed its methodology, defining “a drink” as 0.6 fluid ounces of alcohol, corresponding to one 12-ounce beer, a five-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor. The rankings were based on consumption of pure alcohol through beer, wine, and spirits. 

The report’s findings have sparked significant debate and concern, particularly in Zimbabwe, where the data highlights troubling trends. 

Economist and podcast host Tinashe Murapata, also known as Baba Nyenyedzi, called the statistics alarming: 

“The average Zimbabwean consumes a staggering 62.8 liters of pure alcohol annually. If this is true, then we have a national disaster!” 

Other commentators raised concerns about the proliferation of unregulated alcohol in Zimbabwe. Social media user @CeeeClef criticized the ease of access to cheap, unregulated alcohol, saying: 

“Anyone can buy ethanol, mix it with water, add color and flavor, and sell it as brandy or gin. These products are everywhere and destroying the youth and the poor.” 

Opinions on the report’s accuracy and implications were divided. Some questioned the methodology, while others doubted Zimbabwe’s ranking. Twitter user @SaChiri__ wrote: 

“Is the data free of confounding variables? Our unique economic situation may skew the measurements.” 

Others expressed skepticism about Zimbabwe surpassing South Africa in alcohol consumption. User @sm_chauke commented: 

“No way Zimbabweans can outdrink South Africans.” 

Meanwhile, some attributed the findings to broader socioeconomic factors. User @jqsh4 remarked: 

“Alcohol is always affordable and available because it keeps the masses docile.” 

The report also highlighted surprising entries like Afghanistan and Iran, both predominantly Muslim nations with strict alcohol bans, ranking in the top 10. This sparked curiosity online, with user @enza2363 asking: 

“How is Afghanistan fifth, ahead of the UK and Ireland?” 

Wisevoter emphasized the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption, warning of risks such as liver damage, cancer, and impaired motor skills. The findings have raised questions about the accessibility and regulation of alcohol, as well as the societal factors driving high consumption rates. 

Source: Iharare.com

Ukraine Launches Counterattack in Russia’s Kursk Region, Moscow Says

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Russia claimed on Sunday that Ukraine had launched a counterattack in the Kursk region, a western Russian area where fighting has persisted for months. Ukrainian forces reportedly crossed into the region in August, holding ground that could serve as leverage in potential peace talks. 

The Russian Defense Ministry stated that Ukrainian troops initiated the assault around 9:00 a.m. Moscow time (0600 GMT) near the village of Berdin. The attack involved two tanks, a mine-clearing vehicle, and twelve armored combat vehicles carrying paratroopers. 

“Artillery and aviation of the North group of Russian forces defeated the assault group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces,” the ministry said in a statement, adding that two Ukrainian attacks had been repelled. 

The claims could not be independently verified by Reuters. 

Prominent Russian military bloggers reported that Ukraine’s latest offensive has placed Russian troops on the defensive. The Operativnye Svodki (Operational Reports) channel noted intense artillery and small-arms battles, with Ukrainian forces employing Western-supplied armored vehicles to mobilize infantry. 

Fighting is reportedly concentrated north of a highway connecting Sudzha, near the border, to Kursk, the regional capital. However, Yuri Podolyak, an influential Russian blogger, suggested the attack could be a diversion to mask preparations for a strike on Glushkovo, further west. Podolyak urged civilians in Glushkovo and Korenevo to evacuate. 

This development comes as both sides remain locked in a protracted conflict, with no immediate signs of resolution. 

Myanmar Junta to Release 5,864 Prisoners in Independence Day Amnesty

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Myanmar’s military government announced on Saturday it will release 5,864 prisoners, including 180 foreign nationals, as part of an amnesty to mark the country’s Independence Day. 

The Southeast Asian nation has been in political turmoil since the military seized power in a February 2021 coup, ousting an elected civilian government. The takeover triggered widespread pro-democracy protests that were met with a violent crackdown, leading to a nationwide armed rebellion. 

The junta has stated its intention to hold elections later this year, but opposition groups and international observers have dismissed the plans as illegitimate. 

Among those excluded from the amnesty is Nobel laureate and former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The 79-year-old remains imprisoned after being convicted on 14 charges, including incitement, election fraud, and corruption. Suu Kyi, who denies all the allegations, is currently serving a 27-year sentence. 

The announcement of the prisoner release follows previous amnesties granted by the military government during significant national events. The junta has yet to provide details on the identities of those to be freed or the criteria for their release. 

Myanmar’s Independence Day, celebrated on January 4, commemorates the nation’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1948. 

Malaysia Turns Back Boats Carrying Nearly 300 Myanmar Migrants

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Malaysia’s coast guard intercepted and turned back two boats carrying nearly 300 undocumented Myanmar migrants, many of whom were found in an exhausted state due to a lack of food and water, a senior official reported. 

The boats were discovered on Friday approximately two nautical miles southwest of Langkawi, a popular Malaysian resort island. Authorities provided the migrants with food and clean drinking water before escorting the vessels out of Malaysian waters, according to a statement from Director-General Mohd Rosli Abdullah on Saturday. 

“We are closely cooperating with Thai enforcement agencies to gather further information on the movement of these boats,” Mohd Rosli added. 

The coast guard did not confirm whether the migrants belonged to the Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim minority group in Myanmar. Members of the Rohingya often flee persecution in Myanmar, where they are denied citizenship and face systemic abuse. 

On the same day, Malaysian police detained 196 undocumented Myanmar migrants after their boat landed on a Langkawi beach. Among those detained were 71 children and 57 women, believed to be ethnic Rohingya, according to a police statement. 

The migrants were taken for documentation and health checks. Authorities did not provide further details on their next steps. 

For years, Rohingya refugees have risked dangerous journeys on makeshift wooden boats to escape persecution in Myanmar. Many aim to reach neighboring Muslim-majority countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, as well as Thailand, particularly during the calmer seas from October to April. 

Malaysia, however, does not recognize refugee status. In recent years, the country has taken a hardline stance, turning away boats carrying Rohingya refugees and detaining thousands in overcrowded detention centers as part of a broader crackdown on undocumented migrants. 

The situation highlights the continued plight of the Rohingya people, who remain one of the most persecuted minorities in the world, and the challenges faced by countries in the region in addressing the humanitarian crisis. 

Heavy Snow Causes Widespread Disruption in the UK and Germany

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Heavy snow and freezing rain wreaked havoc across Europe on Sunday, with significant disruption reported in the U.K. and Germany. Flights were suspended at major airports, roads became treacherous, and power outages left many without electricity. 

In the U.K., heavy snow of up to 40 centimeters (15 inches) in higher areas—especially in northern England—raised concerns that rural communities could be cut off. The National Grid, responsible for the country’s electricity supply, reported outages across central and western England and Wales, with power restoration efforts underway in Birmingham, Bristol, and Cardiff. 

Transport networks bore the brunt of the severe weather. Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport temporarily closed their runways, although they expected to reopen by late Sunday morning. Leeds Bradford Airport, however, remained closed. 

Road travel was similarly affected, with local authorities preemptively closing several roads. Stranded vehicles and collisions caused further disruption as families and students attempted to return home after the holiday break. Rail services also faced cancellations, with National Rail warning that disruptions could extend into the workweek. 

The Met Office, Britain’s weather agency, forecasted continued sleet and snow for northern England and southern Scotland. Meanwhile, the south of England, which experienced freezing rain earlier, was expected to see milder conditions later in the day. 

Flood warnings were also issued by the Environment Agency for southern England, affecting areas around the River Taw and River Avon. 

In Germany, snow and ice created hazardous conditions, particularly in the southwest. Authorities issued black ice warnings for drivers and pedestrians, advising people to avoid travel unless necessary. 

At Frankfurt Airport, 120 of the 1,090 scheduled flights were canceled due to the weather. Munich Airport operated with only one runway while the other was cleared of snow and ice. 

The road network faced its share of challenges, with accidents reported across the country. In Baden-Württemberg, a bus skidded off the road near Hemmingen, injuring eight people. Long-distance train services in the Frankfurt area also experienced irregularities. 

Both countries continue to grapple with the effects of the heavy snow, as emergency services work to restore normalcy. While milder conditions are expected in some areas, the aftermath of the snow and freezing rain is likely to linger into the coming week. 

How Congress Will Certify Trump’s Electoral College Victory on Jan. 6 

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The joint session of Congress to certify the Electoral College votes on Jan. 6 is expected to be a smoother process compared to the session four years ago, which was disrupted by rioters seeking to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. 

This time, former President Donald Trump returns to the White House after winning the 2024 election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Harris will preside over the certification process, fulfilling her constitutional duty in a manner similar to how then-Vice President Mike Pence certified Trump’s loss in 2021. 

The Jan. 6 session is a constitutionally required step following the Electoral College’s formal vote in December. Here’s how the process will unfold: 

What Happens When Congress Meets? 

Congress convenes on Jan. 6 to count and certify the electoral votes. Sealed certificates from each state are brought to the session in traditional mahogany boxes. Representatives from both parties read the results aloud, and the votes are tallied. 

The vice president, serving as the president of the Senate, presides over the session and formally announces the winner. Trump’s 312-226 Electoral College victory means no tie-breaking measures are necessary. 

Congress revised the Electoral Count Act in 2022, defining the vice president’s role as strictly ceremonial. This came in response to the events of 2021, when Trump pressured Pence to reject the certified results—a request Pence declined. 

The updated law also raised the threshold for objections, requiring support from at least one-fifth of members in both the House and Senate. 

The presiding officer presents state-by-state electoral certificates, read aloud by appointed tellers from both chambers. After tallying the votes, the presiding officer announces the president and vice president-elect. 

Objections and Their Thresholds 

Lawmakers can object to a state’s vote, but such objections must be written and signed by one-fifth of each chamber. If an objection meets this threshold, the House and Senate debate it separately. Both chambers must agree for the objection to succeed; otherwise, the original votes are counted. 

Historically, objections are rare and often unsuccessful. The most recent occurred in 2021, with both chambers rejecting challenges to the Arizona and Pennsylvania results. 

Once certified, the president-elect is inaugurated on Jan. 20. With Harris conceding her defeat, no further challenges are anticipated. 

Man Arrested in Nigeria for Stealing Goat for Daughter’s Naming Ceremony

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Police in Ogun State, south west of Nigeria,  have arrested Akintoye Waris and an alleged accomplice, Ajayi Yusuf, for reportedly stealing and slaughtering a Savannah he-goat valued at N200,000 to celebrate Waris’ daughter’s naming ceremony. 

The Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, said on Saturday that the suspects were apprehended on January 2, 2025, following a report by the goat’s owner, identified only as Mark. 

According to the report, the suspects targeted Mark’s farm on December 25, 2024, while he was out grazing his livestock. Villagers later informed the police they had seen Waris and Yusuf transporting the goat on a motorcycle toward Olodo town. 

Suspects Confess to Crime

Acting on a tip-off, police detectives arrested the suspects in the early hours of January 2. During interrogation, they confessed to stealing and slaughtering the goat on December 27. Waris admitted using the meat to prepare food for his daughter’s naming ceremony in Olodo. 

“The suspects explained how they planned, executed, and transported the stolen goat before using it for the event,” Odutola said. 

Odutola confirmed that the suspects are in custody at the Divisional Crime Branch for further investigation. She assured residents that they would be prosecuted once the investigation is complete. 

“We are committed to ensuring justice is served and will provide updates as the case progresses,” she added. 

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