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UPDATED: UN Envoy Says South Sudan Is Not Ready for Its First Post-Independence Elections in December

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UNITED NATIONS – South Sudan is facing significant hurdles in its path to holding its first-ever post-independence elections in December 2024, according to the United Nations’ top envoy for the country. Nicholas Haysom, speaking to the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday, emphasized that the ongoing political consultations have made it difficult to treat the National Elections Commission’s recently announced date of December 22 as a fixed timeline.

Haysom described the December 22 election date as “a definitive trigger in isolation from other critical factors,” underscoring that political consensus has yet to be reached among South Sudan’s leadership. Political players are engaged in discussions about whether the vote can or should be held this year, with numerous obstacles still looming.

“South Sudan is simply not ready to hold its first post-independence elections in December,” Haysom warned. The vote, meant to be the culmination of a peace agreement signed in 2018, is intended to help South Sudan transition from years of civil war, driven largely by ethnic divisions, to a more stable political environment. However, the challenges remain daunting.

South Sudan, which became the world’s youngest nation after gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, has since been mired in conflict. The war, fought between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those supporting Vice President Riek Machar, has claimed the lives of around 400,000 people. The conflict has devastated the country, and peace remains fragile despite the peace agreement signed five years ago.

“The election is meant to help pull South Sudan out of a civil war, but the ongoing fighting and political fragmentation make it increasingly unlikely that elections can be held as planned,” Haysom told the Security Council.

Despite the grim outlook, there have been some positive developments. The National Elections Commission has begun the groundwork necessary for elections, including assessing “the ground-level infrastructure and facilities required for a conducive environment for conducting elections.” So far, 29 political parties have successfully registered to participate in the upcoming elections.

The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan remains committed to supporting the creation of an environment conducive to holding elections whenever they are deemed feasible. “The U.N. peacekeeping mission continues to support the creation of an enabling environment for elections in South Sudan whenever they are held,” Haysom added, stressing that the mission remains focused on protecting civilians and ensuring their safety in the run-up to the vote.

However, Haysom also raised concerns about the deteriorating political environment in the country. Widespread reports of civil society repression, including crackdowns on political activists, journalists, and members of the Human Rights Commission, have cast a shadow over the country’s preparations for elections. There are also concerns that a recently passed security law gives South Sudan’s National Security Service the authority to arrest individuals without a warrant, raising alarm among human rights groups and the international community.

While the country’s National Elections Commission continues to plan for December, the road ahead remains uncertain. For now, the fate of South Sudan’s first post-independence elections hangs in the balance as political instability and logistical challenges continue to threaten the country’s fragile peace.

APnews report

France Honors African Soldiers Who Helped Liberate the French Riviera from Nazi Occupation 80 Years Ago

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SAINT-RAPHAEL, France – On Thursday, France commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Allied invasion of the French Riviera during World War II, an operation that played a pivotal role in pushing back Nazi forces. The series of events paid special tribute to the many African soldiers from French colonies who took part in the campaign, often referred to as “the forgotten D-Day.”

The ceremonies were presided over by French President Emmanuel Macron and attended by several international leaders, including Cameroonian President Paul Biya. Originally scheduled to include a seaborne segment along the Mediterranean coast, part of the commemoration was canceled due to storm warnings.

The centerpiece of the commemoration took place at the Boulouris National Cemetery in Saint-Raphael, where 464 French soldiers, who died during the fighting in August 1944, are buried. Numerous other African leaders also took part in the tribute, emphasizing the collective effort made by soldiers from France’s then-colonies to secure the liberation of the country.

Six surviving World War II veterans—five from France and one from another nation—were honored with the prestigious Legion of Honor, France’s highest award, in recognition of their bravery and contribution during the war. The event was followed by an aeronautic demonstration and a grand fireworks display.

“Starting August 15, 1944, hundreds of thousands of Allied troops descended on the Mediterranean coast for Operation Dragoon,” Macron said during his address. This operation, which involved a massive deployment of both American and French forces, aimed to push back Nazi occupiers in the southern region of France.

The operation, which unfolded just two months after the better-known D-Day invasion of Normandy, was initially intended to coincide with that earlier invasion. However, Operation Dragoon was delayed due to logistical challenges and a shortage of resources. Eventually, it proved to be an instrumental turning point in liberating southern France.

Operation Dragoon is noted for the significant participation of African soldiers, who accounted for nearly half of the French contingent. These soldiers hailed from French colonies that have since gained independence, including countries across North and West Africa. “These brave men from across Africa were integral to France’s liberation,” Macron said, acknowledging the often-overlooked contributions of African forces in the conflict.

The exact number of casualties remains uncertain, but French Defense Ministry records estimate that approximately 1,300 Allied soldiers, including a substantial number of Africans, lost their lives in the operation’s first two days alone.

Operation Dragoon’s success enabled the Allied forces to liberate much of southern France within four weeks. Troops from the Mediterranean landings eventually joined forces with those advancing from Normandy on September 12, 1944, in Burgundy, marking a major step toward the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany in France.

The event concluded with reflections on the sacrifices made by soldiers from Africa, many of whom never returned home but whose contributions have left a lasting legacy. “It is our duty to remember them,” Macron said, as the French president and dignitaries laid wreaths at the cemetery, honoring the African soldiers who fought for a free France.

apnews.com story

Former Argentine President Alberto Fernandez Charged with Domestic Violence

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Former Argentine President Alberto Fernandez was formally charged on Wednesday with committing violence against former first lady Fabiola Yanez. Prosecutor Ramiro Gonzalez submitted documents to the court seeking charges for “minor and serious injuries” as well as “coercive threats.”

The prosecutor stated there was evidence Yanez had “suffered a relationship marked by harassment, psychological harassment and physical aggression in a context of gender and domestic violence.”

The domestic abuse allegations first emerged from text messages uncovered during a separate embezzlement investigation against Fernandez. Initially, Yanez chose not to press charges but later filed a criminal complaint.

Yanez’s lawyer reported that she contacted the investigating judge, stating, “I want to file a criminal complaint. I want to denounce him (Fernandez) for the blows I received from him and the threats I have been suffering.”

Recently, Argentine media published photos of Yanez showing bruises on her face and arm, adding visual evidence to the allegations.

Fernandez, who served as Argentina’s president from 2019 to 2023, has vehemently denied Yanez’s accusations. He has pledged to prove to the courts “what really happened.”

This case has sent shockwaves through Argentine politics, raising questions about accountability for high-profile figures and the issue of domestic violence in the country. As the legal process unfolds, it is likely to remain a focal point of national attention and debate.

Woman Arrested at Applebee’s for Violating ‘All You Can Eat’ Meal Rules

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A Chicago woman, Shawneesha Cobbs, 28, was arrested at an Applebee’s in Portage, Indiana, following a dispute over the restaurant’s ‘all you can eat’ meal policy. The incident occurred on Friday, August 2, around 8:30 pm.

Applebee’s offers a special where customers can have unlimited amounts of one of three mains – boneless wings, shrimp, or riblets – and fries for $15.99. Cobbs allegedly purchased two of these specials but shared them with more than two friends at the table.

When the restaurant manager explained that each person would need to pay $15.99, an argument ensued over the bill. Police were called to the scene after dispatch reported hearing “multiple females screaming and threatening people,” according to Region News Source.

Despite the group’s claim that the policy wasn’t clear, officers found the rules clearly stated in bold print on the menu. Cobbs became disorderly, ignoring police orders to calm down, which led to her arrest. She was taken to Porter County Jail and charged with disorderly conduct.

Local news reports state that a member of the party later returned to pay the bill in full.

This incident occurs as Applebee’s and other fast-casual restaurants introduce value deals to compete with fast-food chains and attract inflation-weary customers. Similar strategies have been employed by Chili’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Starbucks, Popeyes, and Taco Bell.

For instance, McDonald’s recently introduced a $5 meal deal, while Burger King offers a similar $5 Your Way Meal. Wendy’s has a $3 breakfast offer, and Jimmy John’s provides a $10 Total Package Meal.

These value offerings reflect the ongoing competition in the fast-food and fast-casual dining sectors as restaurants seek to attract budget-conscious consumers in a challenging economic climate.

Imane Khelif Files Cyberbullying Lawsuit Against Elon Musk and JK Rowling, Alleging Gender Discrimination

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Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif has reportedly filed a criminal complaint with French authorities alleging “acts of aggravated cyber harassment” against her by public figures including JK Rowling and Elon Musk.

Khelif, 25, won gold in the women’s 66kg boxing contest at the Olympics on Saturday. Following her victory, Rowling criticized Khelif on social media, accusing her of being a man “enjoying the distress of a woman he’s just punched in the head” after Khelif’s opponent, Angela Carini, left the bout in tears. Musk shared a post claiming “men don’t belong in women’s sports” in reference to Khelif.

In an interview with El Birad, Khelif addressed the controversy: “Immediately after there was a big uproar from big politicians around the world, athletes around the world, and even artists and stars, Elon Musk, Trump.. this thing….. that affected me. I am not lying to you, it affected me. It affected me a lot, hurt me a lot.”

Khelif’s lawyer, Nabil Boudi, told Variety that Rowling and Musk are named in the lawsuit, among others. He added that former U.S. President Donald Trump, who also commented on the matter, may be investigated as part of the prosecution.

Khelif was born female and does not identify as transgender or intersex. However, she was disqualified from last year’s World Championships in India after failing an unspecified gender test. The International Boxing Association stated that tests showed Khelif had ‘XY chromosomes,’ but has not revealed which tests were used or published the results.

In France, cyberbullying offenses can result in prison sentences of two to five years and fines ranging from £26,000 to £39,000. If prosecuted as online hate speech, fines could reach £64,000 to £214,000.

Kim Kardashian ‘Increasingly Worried’ About Kids Spending Time with Kanye West and Bianca Censori Amidst Concerning Rumors

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LOS ANGELES, California – Kim Kardashian is reportedly becoming more concerned about the time her four children spend with their father, Kanye West, and his new wife, Bianca Censori, amid growing claims of troubling behavior and inappropriate exposure.

According to sources close to the Kardashian family, the reality star, 43, is increasingly worried about her kids—North, 11, Saint, 8, Chicago, 6, and Psalm, 5—being “exposed to” problematic situations while in their father’s care.

A source close to Kim has revealed that the reality TV star has been growing alarmed by stories circulating online about Kanye (now legally known as Ye) and Bianca’s behavior, which she fears might no longer provide a safe and healthy environment for her children.

“Kim is constantly getting more and more alarmed about the stories she sees coming out about Kanye and Bianca,” the insider shared. “Every week, it’s something different, and she fears it’s no longer a healthy environment for the younger kids to be in.”

According to the source, Kim Kardashian is frustrated by the lack of direct communication between herself and her ex-husband. Most of the communication happens through intermediaries like nannies, Kim’s mother Kris Jenner, or lawyers. In particular, North, their oldest child, frequently sends pictures and videos to her mother when she is with her father, which has only increased Kim’s concerns.

“It’s like Kim wants to see with her own eyes what’s going on—she’s saying she wants a sit-down meeting urgently with both of them to discuss co-parenting and put some new ground rules in place,” the source added. Kim reportedly wants to ensure that the children are raised in a balanced environment despite the couple’s split and their new family dynamics.

Recently, Kanye West has faced several accusations, including claims made by former Yeezy staffer Milo Yiannopoulos, who alleged that Ye has developed an addiction to laughing gas.

According to Yiannopoulos, in a sworn affidavit shared on X (formerly Twitter), West allegedly spends over $50,000 on tanks of laughing gas delivered to a celebrity dentist.

The Sun reports that Ye’s dentist has not responded to requests for comment regarding the allegations, further deepening the concerns surrounding his current lifestyle.

Bianca Censori, 29, Kanye’s new wife, has also attracted attention. Friends of the Australian architectural designer have claimed that she is being “controlled” by her husband, who reportedly has a strong influence over her fashion choices and public appearances.

Censori has been spotted multiple times in daring, often controversial outfits, including a recent trip to Beverly Hills, where she was seen shopping in what some described as “practically naked” attire. The incident sparked further backlash after she was photographed at an afterparty wearing a sheer dress that exposed her body.

These concerns have escalated to the point where Kim feels it’s essential to intervene for the sake of her children. Recently, West has been accused of “parading Bianca around like a sex pet,” as he reportedly issued her “rules to live by.”

For Kim, these reports raise serious red flags about the environment her children are in when they are with their father. While she has remained relatively private about her personal concerns, her recent desire for a meeting suggests that she is ready to address the issue head-on.

Sources close to Kim have indicated that she is particularly focused on ensuring that the children’s well-being and emotional health are prioritized, and she remains hopeful that co-parenting with Kanye can still be productive despite the challenges posed by his new relationship with Censori.

Credit: the-sun.com

Cause of Death Revealed for Woman Found in Baggage Area at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport

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CHICAGO, Illinois – The cause of death has been confirmed for the 57-year-old woman whose body was discovered in a baggage handling area at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport last week. Virginia Christine Vinton, from Waxhaw, North Carolina, died by suicide on Thursday, August 8, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The manner of death was listed as hanging and asphyxiation, according to reports from the Associated Press and local television outlets WFLD and WLS. Vinton’s body was discovered entangled in a conveyor belt system within the baggage area, police previously confirmed.

Vinton had reportedly entered an unoccupied restricted area at approximately 2:27 a.m. local time, according to surveillance footage reviewed by authorities. The Chicago Fire Department responded to the scene hours later after receiving a call about an unresponsive woman. Vinton was pronounced dead at 7:30 a.m. on August 8.

The tragic incident has sparked questions surrounding security protocols at O’Hare, but officials clarified that Vinton was not an airport employee. The U.S. Department of Labor also confirmed that Vinton had no professional connection to the airport.

Vinton’s identity was officially confirmed by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office on Friday, August 9, following an autopsy.

Representatives from the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office and the Chicago Police Department have not provided further details regarding the circumstances of her death.

Lamine Yamal’s Father Hospitalized After Stabbing Near Barcelona

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Multiple Spanish media outlets have reported that Mounir Nasraoui, father of 17-year-old Barcelona and Spain football star Lamine Yamal, has been hospitalized following a stabbing incident near Barcelona.

According to La Vanguardia and news agency EFE, citing unnamed official sources, Nasraoui was stabbed multiple times in a parking lot in the Rocafonda neighborhood of Mataró. He was subsequently transferred to the Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital in Badalona, also known as Can Ruti, with various injuries.

La Vanguardia reports that Nasraoui is in serious but stable condition. The incident, which allegedly involved several individuals, is currently under investigation by Barcelona police. EFE reports that several arrests have already been made in connection with the attack.

Local police have not yet responded to requests for comment from ESPN.

This incident comes in the wake of Lamine Yamal’s recent success with the Spanish national team. The young star was part of Spain’s victorious European Championship squad in July, where he set up Nico Williams’ opening goal in the 2-1 final win over England. Yamal’s performances earned him the tournament’s best young player award, an accolade he received just a day after his 17th birthday.

The football community will undoubtedly be watching closely for updates on Nasraoui’s condition and the ongoing police investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the personal challenges that can affect even the most promising young talents in the sport.

As the story develops, more details are expected to emerge about the circumstances surrounding the attack and its potential impact on Lamine Yamal’s burgeoning career.

Source: espn

Chelsea Offered £38.6m Part-Exchange Deal for Victor Osimhen as Napoli Alter Demands

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Chelsea’s quest for a top-tier striker has taken an intriguing turn with Napoli proposing a part-exchange deal for Victor Osimhen that could significantly reduce the Blues’ cash outlay to just £38.6 million. This development comes as Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, looks to strengthen his attacking options for the upcoming season.

The proposed deal structure involves Chelsea sending Romelu Lukaku and Cesare Casadei to Napoli, along with the £38.6m cash payment for Osimhen. This offer emerges in the wake of Chelsea’s recent setback, where a £34.5m deal for Samu Omorodion from Atletico Madrid collapsed due to disagreements over image rights.

Napoli’s interest in this deal is driven by manager Antonio Conte’s desire to reunite with Lukaku. Meanwhile, Chelsea is navigating the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, making this part-exchange proposal particularly attractive from a financial standpoint.

The potential move aligns with the preferences of the players involved. Casadei is reportedly open to returning to Italy, while Lukaku is willing to take a pay cut to join Napoli. However, Osimhen’s wage demands remain a sticking point, with the Nigerian striker seeking €12m per year, which would place him among Chelsea’s highest earners.

Osimhen has expressed a clear preference for a permanent transfer or, at minimum, a loan with an obligation to buy, rejecting the possibility of a simple loan deal. This stance aligns with Chelsea’s need for a long-term solution to their striking woes.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggests that despite previous interest from Paris Saint-Germain and rumored links to Arsenal, Chelsea is currently the only serious contender for Osimhen’s signature.

This complex deal represents a potential solution to several issues for Chelsea. It could secure a world-class forward while offloading players who don’t feature in Maresca’s plans. However, it also highlights the intricate nature of modern football transfers, with multiple moving parts and financial considerations at play.

As the transfer window progresses, the football world will be watching closely to see if Chelsea can navigate these complexities and secure one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers, potentially reshaping their attack for the coming season and beyond.

Credit: football365.com

Five Reasons Manchester City Won’t Win the Premier League and Arsenal Will

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This season begins much like every other recent campaign—with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City taking center stage as favorites to win the Premier League. Since Guardiola’s arrival in 2016, City have consistently been dominant, often starting the season as the bookmakers’ pick for the title. Even during Guardiola’s first season at the Etihad, when City finished 15 points behind Chelsea in third place, City were still seen as strong contenders from the outset.

That favoritism hasn’t changed, and bookmakers remain bullish on City’s chances. In fact, Guardiola’s City have won the Premier League in six of his eight seasons in charge, only missing out during the 2019-20 season when Liverpool amassed the second-most points in league history to edge them out. This dominance has led some to argue that bookmakers have historically undervalued City’s potential, despite their remarkable consistency.

Manchester City’s winning rate in the Guardiola era stands at a staggering 75%—which means that if you had bet on them to win the title over the last eight seasons, you’d likely be sitting on a significant profit. However, as City prepares to embark on the 2024-25 season, doubts are beginning to creep in.

While the preseason betting odds still favor City, there are reasons to believe this could be the year they falter. For one, bookmakers have given City a 47.6% chance (or +110 odds) of winning the Premier League again. Although these odds still place them as favorites, there are underlying factors that could tip the scales in favor of their rivals, most notably Arsenal.

So why might Manchester City fail to win the league this season, and why is Arsenal poised to take the crown?

1. City’s Squad Depth Concerns

Despite City’s massive financial muscle, their squad depth has been a point of concern ahead of this campaign. The sale of key players and injuries could expose vulnerabilities that rivals like Arsenal are ready to exploit. The team has also seen a few summer departures and signings, and while City has done well to reinforce, there is a sense that they lack the depth that has been their hallmark in past seasons.

 2. Arsenal’s Rising Form

Arsenal has been on a steady upward trajectory under Mikel Arteta. Last season, the Gunners pushed City for much of the campaign and finished second. With further squad reinforcements, including marquee signings and tactical evolution, Arsenal looks well-positioned to take the next step in their development. The momentum seems to be with them as they enter the 2024-25 season brimming with confidence.

3. The Fatigue Factor

Manchester City’s success across multiple competitions in recent seasons could come at a cost. Competing at the highest levels in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and other tournaments has led to physical and mental fatigue within the squad. Managing so many fronts could take its toll, giving rivals like Arsenal an edge in the title race.

4. Changes in the Backroom

City has seen changes not just on the pitch but behind the scenes as well. Key staff members and backroom personnel who played an integral role in Guardiola’s success have moved on. These transitions could have subtle effects on the team’s cohesion and ability to adapt during crucial moments of the season.

5. Arsenal’s Strengthened Attack

Arsenal’s bolstered attack could be the game-changer this season. Arteta’s side has added key attacking talents, and with stars like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Ødegaard firing on all cylinders, Arsenal’s front line could prove too potent for City’s defense. If Arsenal’s forwards can maintain their form, they could challenge City’s dominance.

As we approach the kickoff of the 2024-25 Premier League season, Manchester City remains the bookmakers’ favorites—but with strong challenges from Arsenal and Liverpool, this might be the year the balance of power shifts.

Culled: football365.com

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