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Trump Loses Bid to Delay Sentencing in Hush Money Case as Appeal Proceeds

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U.S. President-elect Donald Trump failed on Monday to postpone his sentencing in the hush money case involving adult film actor Stormy Daniels. Trump’s legal team cited presidential immunity and the demands of his upcoming January 20 inauguration in their argument, but the court rejected their request. 

Justice Juan Merchan dismissed the motion, describing it as a reiteration of prior arguments. He confirmed that Trump’s sentencing would proceed as scheduled on Friday, January 10. 

Merchan indicated last week that he was unlikely to impose jail time, suggesting instead an unconditional discharge—marking Trump’s criminal conviction on his record without a fine or probation. Trump, 78, may choose to attend the sentencing in person or virtually. 

Trump’s Legal Argument Rejected

Trump’s lawyers, Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, argued on Monday that delaying the sentencing was essential to allow appeals to proceed, noting that a delay would likely extend the process past Trump’s inauguration. 

“Presidential immunity violations cannot be ignored in favor of a rushed pre-inauguration sentencing,” the lawyers said in court filings. 

However, Merchan dismissed the claim, emphasizing the need for prompt judicial resolution. 

Prosecutors from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office opposed the delay, stating in their filing, “The balance of equities weighs heavily in the People’s favor given the strong public interest in prompt prosecution and the finality of criminal proceedings.” 

The case centers on a $130,000 payment Trump’s former attorney Michael Cohen made to Stormy Daniels to suppress her claims of a sexual encounter with Trump before the 2016 presidential election. Trump has denied the affair and the allegations. 

In May, after a six-week trial in Manhattan criminal court, a jury convicted Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to conceal the payment. 

The conviction made Trump the first U.S. president—sitting or former—to be charged and convicted of a crime. 

Since the verdict, Trump’s lawyers have unsuccessfully sought to overturn the case, arguing it interferes with his ability to govern following his reelection. Merchan previously ruled that the case concerns Trump’s personal conduct, not his official duties, and is unrelated to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in a separate case concerning presidential immunity. 

The hush money case has fueled political and legal tension, with Trump alleging that District Attorney Bragg, a Democrat, brought the case to undermine his reelection campaign. Bragg’s office has maintained that it routinely prosecutes similar felony charges. 

Trump’s sentencing will proceed Friday, with significant public interest as the case continues to shape discussions about presidential accountability and the rule of law. 

US Congress Certifies Trump Election Victory with Harris Presiding

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The U.S. Congress officially certified Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory on Monday, during a session presided over by outgoing Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost to Trump in November’s election. 

The quadrennial certification process, a formality clearing the way for Trump’s inauguration on January 20, unfolded smoothly, contrasting sharply with the turmoil of four years ago when a mob stormed the Capitol to block certification of Trump’s 2020 loss to President Joe Biden. 

Harris, in her ceremonial role as president of the Senate, oversaw the roll call of state electoral votes. Known for her upbeat demeanor, Harris maintained a stoic expression as she handed over certificates affirming Trump’s victory. 

“Today was about what should be the norm—a peaceful transfer of power, one of the most important pillars of our democracy,” Harris told reporters after the session. “American democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it.” 

The certification confirmed Trump’s Electoral College victory, with 312 votes to Harris’s 226. Trump celebrated the moment on his social media platform Truth Social, writing, “Congress certifies our great election victory today—a big moment in history. MAGA!” 

Senator J.D. Vance, whose election as vice president was also certified, acknowledged the chamber with a wave when his electoral tally was announced. 

Republicans not only secured the White House but also gained a majority in the Senate and maintained control of the House in the November elections. This gives Trump a strong position to advance his agenda, including tax reforms and stricter immigration policies. 

Democrats did not contest the certification, with House Minority Whip Katherine Clark emphasizing the importance of respecting the democratic process. “As elected leaders, our loyalty must be to the Constitution, first and always. We are here to honor the will of the people and the rule of law,” Clark said in a statement. 

In light of the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, security measures were significantly increased. Metal barriers encircled the Capitol, and checkpoints staffed by police monitored access. Reinforcements from the New York Police Department and other agencies patrolled the area, while additional U.S. Capitol Police teams conducted thorough ID checks at entrances. 

The 2021 riot, which saw over 1,500 individuals charged, resulted in significant damage to the Capitol and injuries to law enforcement. Trump has stated his intention to pardon some of those convicted in connection with the attack. 

The certification proceeded despite a winter storm blanketing Washington, D.C., in six inches of snow, causing travel disruptions but failing to deter Congress from carrying out its constitutional duty. 

Iran Executes Record Number of 31 Women in 2024, Rights Group Reports

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Iran executed at least 31 women in 2024, marking the highest annual total since 2008, according to a report released Monday by Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR). This figure contributes to a total of 241 women executed between 2010 and 2024, as documented by the NGO. 

The majority of the women were executed on charges of murder or drug-related offenses, with nearly 70% of those convicted for murder involving cases of domestic violence. IHR’s director, Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, condemned the trend, stating, “The execution of women in Iran not only reveals the brutal and inhumane nature of the death penalty but also exposes the deep-rooted gender discrimination and inequality within the judicial system.” 

The report highlights systemic issues within Iran’s judicial system. Under the country’s “qisas” law of retribution, a life must be taken for a killing unless the victim’s family grants forgiveness or accepts financial compensation. This framework often disregards extenuating circumstances, such as domestic violence or self-defense. 

One chilling case involved Zahra Esmaili, a woman forced into marriage after a rape left her pregnant. Convicted of killing her abusive husband, a government official, Esmaili suffered a fatal heart attack after being forced to witness group executions. Authorities hanged her lifeless body regardless, according to her lawyer. 

The IHR report notes a surge in executions, particularly after the nationwide protests of 2022–2023. Activists suggest authorities are using the death penalty as a tool to suppress dissent and instill fear. October 2024 recorded 166 executions, the highest monthly figure since IHR began documenting such cases. 

Currently, several women remain on death row, including Kurdish activists Varisheh Moradi and Pakhshan Azizi, whose executions are reportedly imminent. 

The report reveals that only 26% of women’s executions were officially announced by Iranian authorities, with recent years seeing this figure drop to 12%. Additionally, the Abdorrahman Boroumand Center for Human Rights in Iran reported at least 930 total executions in 2024, up from 811 in 2023 and 579 in 2022, indicating a troubling upward trend. 

The revelations have sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups, urging the international community to pressure Iran to reform its judicial system and halt its escalating use of capital punishment, particularly against women and marginalized communities. 

Justin Trudeau Steps Down as Canada’s Prime Minister and Liberal Party Leader

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday, January 6, that he will step down as both Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party, citing mounting political challenges and internal party divisions. 

“Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians… I have fought for this country, for you,” Trudeau said in a statement delivered from his residence at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa. 

Trudeau, who has led Canada since 2015, said he will remain in office until the Liberal Party selects a new leader in the coming weeks. His resignation follows a sharp decline in public support, with recent polls placing him more than 20 points behind Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre. 

Trudeau’s government, operating with a slim minority in Parliament, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including high inflation, a worsening housing crisis, and strained public services. Internal party divisions and the departure of key left-wing allies have further weakened his position. 

The resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland last month underscored the deepening fractures within the government. Freeland reportedly clashed with Trudeau over economic policy and trade relations with the United States, particularly in response to President-elect Donald Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian goods. 

“This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election,” Trudeau said. 

Trudeau’s decision to step down marks the start of a leadership race within the Liberal Party, with the political landscape in Canada now facing significant uncertainty. 

The Liberal Party, grappling with internal discontent and declining public trust, must now navigate a leadership contest while preparing for an anticipated election battle with the surging Conservatives under Poilievre’s leadership. 

Trudeau’s nearly decade-long tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including advancing climate change initiatives, legalizing recreational cannabis, and promoting gender equality. However, his later years in office have been overshadowed by growing criticism over economic challenges and governance issues. 

The leadership transition will leave a lasting impact on Canada’s political future, with the Liberal Party’s direction and ability to regain public confidence hanging in the balance. 

French President Macron Condemns Algeria Over Arrest of Boualem Sansal, Demands Immediate Release

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French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized Algeria on Monday for the detention of renowned author Boualem Sansal, calling the arrest “arbitrary” and a “disgrace.” Macron urged the Algerian government to release the 75-year-old writer immediately, citing his deteriorating health and need for proper medical care. 

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French President Emmanuel Macron

“Algeria dishonors itself by preventing a gravely ill man from receiving proper care,” Macron said during an address at the Élysée Palace to French ambassadors. He described Sansal as a “fighter for freedom” unjustly imprisoned under charges of undermining national security. 

Sansal, a French citizen of Algerian-Moroccan descent, was arrested in mid-November in Algeria. Authorities charged him with offenses related to state security, reportedly stemming from his outspoken criticism of the Algerian regime. The author, who is being held in a medical unit due to worsening health, has faced increasing persecution in recent months. 

Sansal’s arrest has drawn international condemnation, with several Nobel laureates, including Annie Ernaux, Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clézio, and Orhan Pamuk, signing a petition for his release. 

Macron’s remarks come amid rising tensions between France and Algeria. Relations have been strained further by France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, a longstanding point of contention between Algeria and Morocco. 

Renowned author Boualem Sansal

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also criticized Algeria’s refusal to release Sansal, calling the decision “unjustified” and questioning Algeria’s commitment to the 2022 bilateral relations agreement. “We want good relations with Algeria, but this situation does not reflect that,” Barrot said. 

Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to defending democratic values and freedom of expression worldwide. “Freedom is the cornerstone of democracy,” he emphasized, urging Algeria to respect international norms and release Sansal immediately. 

The arrest and ongoing detention of Sansal have drawn significant backlash from the global literary community and human rights organizations, with many citing his prosecution under Algeria’s Penal Code as politically motivated. 

Sansal became a French citizen in 2024 but has long been a vocal critic of Algeria’s government. His detention highlights broader tensions between France and Algeria, as the two nations grapple with complex historical and political ties. 

Hamas Approves Israeli Hostage List Amid Ceasefire Talks

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Hamas has approved a list of 34 Israeli hostages for a potential exchange deal tied to ongoing ceasefire negotiations, according to a Hamas official cited by Reuters. The Israeli government, however, denied receiving such a list, stating that the names being circulated were from an earlier list Israel had provided to mediators in July 2024. 

“Contrary to claims, Hamas has not provided a list of hostages,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said in a statement Sunday. “The list published in the media was originally transferred from Israel to the mediators. No response has been received from Hamas regarding the hostages’ status.” 

Hamas has reportedly linked the hostages’ release to a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a permanent ceasefire agreement. Negotiators are also discussing the number and identities of Palestinian prisoners who would be exchanged in the deal. 

The status of the individuals on the list, including whether they are alive, remains unclear. Israeli officials told CNN they are still awaiting a complete list of living hostages from Hamas. 

Indirect talks mediated in Doha continue, with both sides reporting slow progress. White House Middle East adviser Brett McGurk and other officials are participating in the discussions. 

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in South Korea on Monday, said, “We very much want to finalize this in the next two weeks.” 

Hamas recently released a video of hostage Liri Albag, a 19-year-old Israeli abducted during the October 7, 2023, attacks. The footage has intensified calls within Israel for a ceasefire agreement. Albag’s family urged Netanyahu to seize the opportunity to bring hostages home. 

As of December 5, Hamas was holding about 100 hostages in Gaza, with at least 36 believed to be dead, according to Netanyahu’s office. 

While negotiations continue, Israeli airstrikes on Sunday targeted a residential building in northern Gaza, killing 12 members of the Zuhd family, Gaza’s Civil Defense reported. 

Local residents described the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood as increasingly dangerous. “They attack us every day now, with missiles and bombs,” said Wissam Zuhd, a family member of the victims. 

Footage from CNN showed rescuers digging through rubble, and a young man’s body was seen hanging from the wreckage. Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City reported being overwhelmed by casualties. 

The Gaza Health Ministry said Sunday that 88 people were killed in the previous 24 hours, bringing the total death toll in Gaza since October 2023 to at least 45,805, with more than 109,000 injured. 

CNN

Rudy Giuliani Held in Contempt in Defamation Case Brought by Georgia Election Workers 

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Rudy Giuliani has been held in contempt by a federal judge for failing to produce court-ordered information in a defamation lawsuit filed by two former Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss. The workers are seeking $150 million in damages over Giuliani’s false claims after the 2020 presidential election. 

The ruling, issued Monday by Judge Lewis Liman, comes as Giuliani faces mounting legal challenges, including a scheduled trial in less than two weeks concerning the ownership of his $3.5 million Palm Beach condominium. 

Judge Liman determined that Giuliani’s failure to comply with court orders was deliberate, accusing him of stalling to delay the trial. “His noncompliance was willful,” Liman stated, adding that Giuliani’s justification—distrusting the plaintiffs’ counsel—was not a valid excuse for disregarding legal obligations. 

“He has testified that he did not respond because he suspected the motives of plaintiff’s counsel. That is not an excuse for violating the court’s orders,” Liman said. “If there was reason to believe the plaintiff’s counsel misused discovery, he could raise that with the court. It was not an excuse to take the law into his own hands.” 

The case revolves around Giuliani’s false accusations against Freeman and Moss, whom he alleged had manipulated votes in Atlanta to harm Donald Trump during the 2020 presidential election. Giuliani, a former New York City mayor and attorney for Trump, repeatedly made the baseless claims while working to challenge Trump’s loss in Georgia. 

The defamation had severe repercussions for Freeman and Moss, who faced harassment and threats as a result. A jury in Washington, D.C., previously ruled that Giuliani’s statements caused significant harm and set the damages at $150 million. 

This contempt ruling adds to Giuliani’s growing list of legal troubles. The former U.S. attorney and high-profile Trump ally is embroiled in several lawsuits and investigations. The upcoming trial concerning his Florida property adds further pressure to his already precarious legal and financial situation. 

Freeman and Moss continue to pursue damages as they prepare for trial. Judge Liman’s contempt ruling underscores the court’s commitment to holding Giuliani accountable for his actions and ensuring compliance with legal proceedings. 

Donald Trump to Seek Immunity in January 6 Riot Lawsuit -Newsweek

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Former President Donald Trump will seek presidential immunity from a lawsuit filed by seven Capitol Police officers injured during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The lawsuit accuses Trump of inciting the violence, an allegation he denies. 

Edward Caspar, lead attorney for the plaintiffs in *Smith v. Trump*, confirmed on Sunday that Trump will file for immunity this month. The federal District Court for the District of Columbia must determine whether Trump is protected from civil liability for his alleged role in encouraging the attack. 

The lawsuit could set a significant precedent regarding the limits of presidential immunity and its application in cases involving civil liability and free speech. The outcome may also clarify the events surrounding the Capitol riot, during which Trump supporters attempted to stop the certification of Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory. 

In August 2021, seven Capitol Police officers filed a lawsuit against Trump and members of far-right groups, including the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers, seeking damages for injuries sustained during the riot. 

The plaintiffs argue that Trump perpetuated a false narrative that the 2020 election was stolen and encouraged his supporters to disrupt the certification process. Trump has consistently denied wrongdoing, asserting that he called for peaceful protest. 

The lawsuit is being brought under a post-Civil War statute originally intended to prevent the Ku Klux Klan from intimidating African Americans and suppressing their right to vote. 

In July 2023, the Supreme Court addressed presidential immunity from criminal prosecution but did not clarify its stance on civil immunity, particularly in cases involving free speech. This case will explore whether Trump’s actions fall under the scope of presidential immunity. 

Discovery related to the immunity issue concluded in December 2024. Briefing on Trump’s immunity claim is scheduled to begin, with his initial filing due on January 24 and the plaintiffs’ response due on February 28. A decision is expected by April. 

Caspar, acting co-chief counsel at The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, emphasized the case’s importance. “This lawsuit remains a critical opportunity to achieve justice for those harmed by the attack,” Caspar said. “The federal District Court must determine whether Trump has immunity. We will continue to argue that he does not.” 

The Lawyers’ Committee, a prominent civil rights organization, has argued that the January 6 attack sought to disenfranchise African Americans and other voters, undermining their right to vote. 

The court’s decision on Trump’s immunity will not affect the ongoing proceedings against other defendants in the case, including members of far-right groups and the Trump 2020 campaign. Discovery in those claims is expected to continue until at least July 2025. 

Nigerian Police Summon Ex-Dunamis Pastor Over Allegations Against Church Founder Paul Enenche 

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The Nigeria Police Force has summoned Pastor Abraham Daniel, a former minister at Dunamis International Gospel Centre, for questioning over allegations of criminal defamation, cyberbullying, forgery, and incitement of public nuisance. 

Pastor Paul Enenche

The invitation follows public accusations by Pastor Daniel against Pastor Paul Enenche, the founder and Senior Pastor of the church. Daniel alleged that Enenche reneged on a “gentleman’s agreement” and facilitated his imprisonment on false charges. 

The police letter dated January 3, 2025, and signed by DCP Alhassan Kawu Yahaya on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department, instructed Pastor Daniel to appear for an interview on January 7 in Abuja. The notice emphasized that Daniel could attend the meeting with legal representation. 

The summons comes amid ongoing disputes between Pastor Daniel and the church leadership. Daniel claims the church failed to replace his 2004 Toyota Corolla, which was damaged under contentious circumstances in 2020. He alleged that the damage occurred while he was being trailed after publicly criticizing Enenche and the church on social media. 

Pastor Abraham Daniel

Pastor Daniel also accused Enenche of orchestrating his three-week imprisonment in Suleja Prison over what he described as fabricated charges. He claimed his imprisonment caused significant personal losses, including the collapse of his business and the departure of his wife with their five children, allegedly influenced by the church. 

Daniel further alleged that an out-of-court settlement reached at the Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (FCID) included a promise by Enenche to replace the damaged vehicle. However, Daniel said the church failed to honor this agreement. 

In a recent interview, Daniel described the settlement as a “gentleman’s agreement” without legal documentation. He also criticized the church’s alleged interference in his family matters, asserting that it led to his estrangement from his wife and children. 

The Dunamis church leadership has not publicly responded to the accusations. The case has reignited discussions on church leadership accountability and the role of religious institutions in private disputes. 

SaharaReporters

Boko Haram Attacks Nigerian Army Base in Borno, Killing Soldiers and Destroying Vehicles 

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Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists attacked a Forward Operating Base in the Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, killing several Nigerian soldiers and leaving many others missing. 

The attack, which occurred early Saturday, January 4, 2025, targeted the 25 Taskforce Brigade in Sabon Gari. Security sources confirmed the incident, revealing that the assault lasted over two hours and involved heavy weapons. 

“The terrorists invaded the camp around 4 a.m., using various weapons. So far, we have recovered over seven bodies,” a source told reporters Monday. 

During the attack, the militants reportedly razed buildings and destroyed multiple military vehicles, further crippling the operational capacity of the base. 

ISWAP, an offshoot of Boko Haram, has been consolidating its hold in the Lake Chad region following the death of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau. The group’s strength has grown with the defection of hundreds of Boko Haram fighters. 

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country despite the continued insurgency. Boko Haram and ISWAP have displaced millions and killed thousands across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states since the insurgency began in 2009. 

Source: SaharaReporters

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