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Catholic Church in Lwengo Compares Corruption-Accused MP Namujju to Jesus

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A thanksgiving service at St. Jude Catholic Church in Kyazanga Town, Lwengo, Uganda, has stirred controversy after a church official compared local Member of Parliament Cissy Namujju to Jesus Christ. The event, held on Sunday, August 11, 2024, celebrated Namujju’s recent release on bail after 55 days in remand on corruption charges.

Rev. Fr. Nsamba Gonzaga, representing Masaka Diocese Bishop Seruverus Jumba, made the contentious statement, saying, “The courage shown by Namujju in the face of adversity can be likened to the perseverance of Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.” This comparison has ignited debate about the role of religious rhetoric in political contexts.

Namujju, addressing her constituents, reflected on her time in jail: “Being behind bars has taught me valuable lessons. Despite my wealth, it couldn’t shield me from imprisonment. This is a lesson I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”

The celebration occurred despite objections from presidential advisor Justine Nameere, who argued that the event “glorifies corruption” and shows a lack of remorse. However, local support for Namujju remained strong, with residents praising her charitable contributions to the area.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among also attended, commending Namujju’s generosity: “It’s admirable to have a public servant who shares her resources with her people.”

Rev. Fr. Nsamba Gonzaga, representing Masaka Diocese Bishop Seruverus Jumba

The event concluded with an interfaith prayer session at Namujju’s family home, underscoring her broad community support. This public display of backing for an MP facing corruption charges has reignited discussions about political accountability and public perception in Uganda.

As Namujju’s legal case continues, the controversial religious comparison and the show of public support highlight the complex interplay between politics, religion, and community loyalty in Ugandan society.

Guinea Unveils Draft Constitution with Two Presidential Term Limits

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Guinea’s National Transition Council published a draft of the country’s new constitution online early Monday, August 12, 2024.

The document is scheduled for a vote before the end of the year, potentially paving the way for elections and a return to constitutional governance.

The draft constitution outlines a bicameral legislative system consisting of a National Assembly and Senate.

It retains progressive measures from the 2020 Constitution, including bans on the death penalty and female genital mutilation.

The document also reinforces rights protections, stipulating that anyone arrested, detained, or charged must be informed of the reasons for their arrest.

A key feature of the draft is the imposition of a strict two-term limit for the presidency, with each term lasting five years.

This provision aims to prevent long-term entrenchment of power and promote democratic turnover.

However, the draft has sparked debate about the political future of General Mamady Doumbouya, who has led Guinea since a coup in 2021.

While the current transition charter prohibits Doumbouya from standing for president in future elections, this restriction is notably absent from the new draft constitution, leading to speculation about his potential candidacy.

The publication of this draft marks a significant step in Guinea’s transition process, though its final form and implementation remain subject to further debate and a public vote.

The international community continues to closely monitor Guinea’s progress towards democratic rule, with particular interest in how the new constitution will shape the country’s political landscape.

As Guinea moves closer to elections and a potential return to civilian rule, the draft constitution represents a crucial framework for the nation’s democratic future.

Its provisions on term limits, human rights, and governmental structure will likely play a pivotal role in shaping Guinea’s political trajectory in the years to come.

africanews.com

Tanzanian Bongo Flava Singer Mandojo Killed After Being Mistaken for Thief

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Popular Tanzanian Bongo Flava singer Mandojo was tragically killed on Sunday, August 11, 2024, after being mistakenly identified as a thief.

The artist, known for hit songs like “Nikupe” and “Dingi,” was beaten to death just days before his birthday on August 22.

Fellow musician Soggy Doggy confirmed the news on social media, expressing his grief: “My heart is in great pain, I will miss you very much my brother and friend. Rest in peace.

Mandojo, surely human life is very short on this earth. Sorry brothers, relatives and friends and I’m very sorry my brother @domokayatz God’s work has no mistakes.”

Another colleague, Domo Kaya, paid tribute to Mandojo, saying: “Daaaah MY SON I don’t believe the 22nd of this month is supposed to be your birthday Aisee why! This is so sad. Rest in peace. May God give you eternal light, friend, brother.”

The circumstances surrounding Mandojo’s death highlight issues of public safety and the dangers of vigilantism in Tanzania.

The incident has shocked fans and fellow artists in the Bongo Flava music scene, a popular genre of Tanzanian hip hop.

Mandojo’s untimely death, occurring so close to his birthday, has added to the tragedy felt by his family, friends, and fans.

The music industry in Tanzania is mourning the loss of a talented artist whose career was cut short by this devastating case of mistaken identity. Authorities have not yet released any information about potential investigations into the incident or any arrests made in connection with Mandojo’s death

Hearts of Oak Fan Dies During Homowo Cup Match Against Heart of Lions

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A fan of Ghana Premier League club Hearts of Oak, William Nii Laryea, died during the 2024 Homowo Cup match against Heart of Lions on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium. The club announced the tragic news in a statement released on Monday.

Hearts of Oak emerged victorious in the match, winning 8-7 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

However, the victory was overshadowed by the loss of Laryea, described as a passionate supporter who attended all of the club’s home and away matches.

The club’s management expressed their condolences, stating, “The management of Accra Hearts of Oak with a heavy heart wishes to express our sincere condolences to the family of William Nii Laryea, who met his untimely death yesterday at the Accra Sports Stadium.”

While the exact cause of Laryea’s death was not disclosed, Hearts of Oak has pledged to work closely with his family to contribute towards the final funeral arrangements.

The statement emphasized the impact of Laryea’s passing, noting that his death would affect not only his immediate family but also the club, which will “lose his unflinching support and the passion with which he followed the club.”

Hearts of Oak concluded their statement by expressing hope that “the Almighty God will continue to guide and protect [the family] in these difficult times” and praying for Laryea to be granted “a lasting resting place.”

The incident has cast a somber mood over what was intended to be a celebratory charity match for the Homowo festival.

Fatal Crash on Enugu-Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway Claims Lives of All Passengers, Including Two Babies

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ABIA STATE, Nigeria – A devastating accident occurred on Sunday near the Umuika Junction along the Enugu-Aba-Port Harcourt expressway, claiming the lives of all passengers aboard an Abia Line Network Sienna vehicle, including two infants.

The driver of the vehicle miraculously survived the crash.

The incident took place around 12:45 PM as the Sienna, traveling from Abakaliki in Ebonyi State to Aba in Abia State, veered off the road after the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel.

According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle was moving at high speed when it lost control, collided with a truck, and crashed into the bush.

The impact was fatal for all passengers and their babies, leaving the driver as the sole survivor.

Efforts to obtain an official statement from the transport company were unsuccessful, as Mrs. Onyemachi Nwaogwugwu, the General Manager, was unavailable for comment.

The Abia Police Command and the state Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have confirmed the incident. Speaking to the press, ASP Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Abia State Police Command, stated that the accident scene had been visited and that investigations were ongoing. “The accident scene has been visited and investigation is ongoing,” Chinaka said.

Similarly, the Sector Commander of the FRSC Abia State Command, Mr. Joseph Ezeoma, confirmed the tragic incident in a press statement issued by the PRO of the Abia State Sector Command, C. M. Enyioko.

The statement noted the involvement of the Federal Road Safety Corps in the ongoing investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the fatal accident.

As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of high-speed driving and driver fatigue, particularly on Nigeria’s busy highways.

The incident has also raised concerns about the need for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Seven Family Members Die of Suspected Food Poisoning in Sokoto, Nigeria

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Seven members of the same family in Runjin Barmo village, Sokoto State, Nigeria, have died following the consumption of a cassava delicacy, according to a statement from the Sokoto State Ministry of Health on Sunday, August 11, 2024.

The victims include Malam Abubakar, his wife A’ishatu Abubakar, and their five children.

The incident occurred last Wednesday in the Kajiji District of Shagari Local Government Area.

Village head Malam Muhammadu Modi reported that the family consumed the cassava meal during dinner.

However, he noted that other households in the village had used the same cassava without any ill effects, leaving the exact cause of death uncertain.

Health Commissioner Hajiya Asabe Balarabe led a delegation to the village to assess the situation.

The ministry plans to take samples from a surviving teenager who also consumed the suspected meal for further investigation.

Balarabe expressed condolences on behalf of Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu and urged residents to promptly report any strange diseases in their communities.

The incident has raised concerns about food safety in the region. Local health officials, including Sani Bello Tambuwal, Director of Health for Shagari Local Government Area, have welcomed the state’s swift response to the tragedy.

As investigations continue, authorities are emphasizing the importance of food safety awareness and early reporting of health issues in rural communities.

Source: punchng.com

Sudan Peace Talks to Continue Despite Uncertainty Over Army’s Participation

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Peace negotiations aimed at resolving Sudan’s ongoing conflict are set to proceed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, despite uncertainty surrounding the Sudanese army’s participation.

The talks, facilitated by Saudi Arabia and the United States, are scheduled to begin on August 12, 2024.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), one of the main parties in the conflict, have confirmed their attendance.

However, the Sudanese army’s stance remains unclear, with no official confirmation of their participation as of the latest reports.

A spokesperson for the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a regional bloc involved in mediation efforts, stated, “The talks will proceed as planned.

We are hopeful that all parties will engage in good faith to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.”

The African Union has also expressed support for the negotiations, urging both the Sudanese army and the RSF to prioritize the interests of the Sudanese people and work towards a lasting peace agreement.

These talks come after months of conflict that has displaced millions and caused a severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Previous attempts at negotiations have failed to produce a lasting ceasefire or political settlement.

International observers remain cautiously optimistic about the prospects for progress, emphasizing the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The United Nations has warned of worsening humanitarian conditions if a resolution is not reached soon.

As the talks are set to begin, the international community continues to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and unrestricted access for humanitarian aid to reach those in need across Sudan.

VOA report

Nigerian Woman Summoned by Immigration Service for Destroying Husband’s Passport at Lagos Airport

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The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has summoned Favour Igiebor for questioning after a video circulated on social media showing her apparently tearing up her husband’s passport at Lagos’ Murtala Mohammed International Airport.

In the viral video, Igiebor is seen shouting at her husband while torn pieces of a Nigerian passport lie on the floor.

The incident occurred as the family returned from Europe, witnessed by numerous travelers.

The NIS released a statement confirming they have launched a formal investigation into the matter.

The statement noted that destroying a Nigerian passport is a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in prison.

Following the video’s circulation, Igiebor released her own video statement, saying, “Look at my eyes – I do cry a lot.

Many people commenting on social media don’t understand what I am going through.” She mentioned ongoing family issues but did not provide specific details.

Eyewitnesses reported that the couple had been having issues throughout their flight. Some travelers were seen consoling the husband at the airport.

If charged, Igiebor would be the first person taken to court for destroying a Nigerian passport.

This incident comes amid recent efforts by Nigerian authorities to protect national symbols, including a crackdown on the mishandling of the national currency at social events.

The NIS has not yet announced any formal charges against Igiebor as the investigation continues.

Death Toll Rises to 18 in Eastern DRC Attacks by ADF Rebels, 14 Still Missing

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BENI, Democratic Republic of Congo – The death toll from two violent attacks in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has risen to at least 18, according to local sources who spoke to AFP on Sunday.

The attacks, which occurred on Saturday in the Beni territory of the troubled North Kivu province, have been attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group affiliated with the Islamic State.

Kinos Katua, a civil society leader in the region, confirmed that the death toll had been revised upward from 10 to 18 people.

“Fourteen people are still missing, Katua added, noting that the attacks also resulted in the destruction of four houses and the burning of two motorcycles.

Another local leader, Charles Endukado, indicated that the number of those killed could be even higher, with estimates suggesting that “more than 18” people lost their lives.

“No one can go to recover the bodies that are still lying on the ground, Endukado lamented, reflecting the dangerous and volatile situation on the ground.

The ADF, originally a Ugandan rebel group, has been active in eastern DRC for over three decades, leaving a trail of violence that has claimed the lives of thousands of civilians.

In 2019, the group pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, which now portrays the ADF as its Central African branch.

The latest attacks are part of a series of violent incidents linked to the ADF.

Just last month, the group was blamed for an attack that killed 20 people in the region.

Local authorities in Beni revealed in mid-June that approximately 150 people had been killed in similar attacks attributed to the ADF since the beginning of the year.

Despite ongoing joint military operations by Congolese and Ugandan forces against the ADF in North Kivu and the neighboring province of Ituri, these deadly assaults on civilians have continued unabated.

The persistent violence underscores the ongoing instability in eastern DRC, where civilians remain vulnerable to attacks from various armed groups operating in the region.

Source: VOA

11-Year-Old Girl and Woman Stabbed in London’s Leicester Square, Suspect Arrested

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An 11-year-old girl and a 34-year-old woman were stabbed in London’s Leicester Square on Monday, August 12, 2024, just before midday. The incident occurred in the busy tourist area, prompting a swift response from emergency services.

The Metropolitan Police were called to the scene at 11:36 AM. A man has been arrested in connection with the attack and is currently in custody. The police do not believe there are any outstanding suspects.

A security guard, identified as Abdullah, 29, intervened during the attack. He reported tackling the suspect and disarming him before police arrived. “I jumped on him, held the hand in which he was carrying a knife, and just put him down on the floor,” Abdullah stated.

The London Ambulance Service dispatched resources to the scene, including an ambulance crew, an advanced paramedic, and members of their tactical response unit. Both victims were treated at the scene and subsequently taken to a major trauma center. Their current conditions are unknown.

A police cordon has been established around the TWG Tea shop where the incident occurred. The area, popular with tourists and shoppers, remains busy despite the ongoing police presence.

The Metropolitan Police spokesperson emphasized that this incident is not being treated as terror-related. The police remain on high alert following recent unrest in other parts of the country.

As investigations continue, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with their enquiries.

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