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Student Demonstrations: Bangladesh Enforces Nationwide Ban on Social Media Platforms

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The government of Bangladesh imposed a comprehensive nationwide ban on several leading social media and communication platforms, impacting millions of users across the country. This move has effectively curtailed access to popular platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and several others, as authorities aim to manage unrest related to ongoing student demonstrations.

The ban primarily targets social networking services such as Meta-owned Instagram and TikTok, along with Alphabet’s YouTube. By restricting access to these widely-used applications, the government aims to address the growing tensions and maintain public order. The decision comes in the wake of protests and unrest that have raised concerns about stability and safety within the nation.

In addition to these platforms, access to Facebook has been specifically restricted on mobile networks, further tightening the digital space for communication and information sharing. Russian messaging platform Telegram has also been blocked on mobile connections, as reported by Daily Bangladesh. This series of actions marks a significant escalation from the previous shutdown of Meta’s platforms, including Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram, which lasted from July 17 to July 31. The earlier measures were implemented as a response to unrest related to protests against quota reforms.

Sources indicate that access to Meta’s platforms via mobile networks was cut off around 12:15 PM on Friday. The current restrictions appear to be confined to mobile data connections, suggesting a more targeted approach compared to the earlier comprehensive shutdown. Despite these restrictions, the country’s Internet speed had reportedly returned to normal levels by Thursday night.

With over 120 million mobile network users in Bangladesh, the restriction is likely to drive increased use of VPNs, potentially affecting overall Internet speeds and user experience. The ban highlights the significant role that digital communication plays in modern society, especially in densely populated regions where mobile connectivity is a primary means of accessing information and staying connected.

As Bangladesh navigates this period of unrest and digital restriction, the focus remains on balancing public safety with the need for open communication. The situation continues to evolve, and the global community watches closely as the country addresses these complex challenges.

The Associated Press

Spain Advances to Olympic Soccer Semifinals with 3-0 Win Over Japan | Paris 2024

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The Spanish Men’s Olympic Team secured a semifinal spot at the Paris 2024 Games with a convincing 3-0 victory over Japan in their quarterfinal match at the Groupama Stadium in Lyon.

Fermin Lopez opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a stunning left-footed shot from outside the box. Despite Japanese goalkeeper Kokubo getting a hand to it, the well-struck effort found the back of the net.

Spain dominated much of the first half, with Sergio Gomez consistently threatening down the left flank. Japan had a goal disallowed for offside in the 40th minute, and Hosoya hit the post in stoppage time, leaving the halftime score at 1-0.

The second half saw Spain maintain control, with Japan struggling to create clear chances. Lopez doubled Spain’s lead in the 71st minute with a spectacular half-volley following a corner kick.

Captain Abel Ruiz sealed the victory in the 87th minute, firing home his first goal of the tournament from a free-kick delivery by Gomez.

Key moments:

– Japan’s Takai hit the crossbar with a header in the 88th minute

– Spanish goalkeeper Tenas made a crucial save from Hosoya in the 82nd minute

– The match featured cooling breaks due to high temperatures in Lyon

Spain’s coach Santi Denia made several substitutions throughout the second half to maintain the team’s energy levels. Japan attempted to mount a comeback but were unable to breach Spain’s defense.

The victory sets up a semifinal clash between Spain and Morocco. Spain’s quest for gold medals in both the men’s and women’s football tournaments continues, while Japan’s Olympic journey comes to an end.

This professional performance from Spain marks a return to form after their shock defeat to Egypt in the group stages. As they progress to the semifinals, La Roja will be considered strong contenders for the gold medal.

Slovakian Swimmer Tamara Potocka Collapses After Olympic 200m Medley

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Slovakian swimmer Tamara Potocka, 21, collapsed following the women’s 200-metre individual medley event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The incident occurred at La Defense Arena in Nanterre, Paris, during the morning session.

Potocka was carried away from the pool on a stretcher after collapsing upon exiting the water. A Slovakian team official informed the PA news agency that Potocka had suffered an asthma attack after her race.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing Potocka with an oxygen mask as she was taken away for further examination. She was subsequently transported to a hospital for additional monitoring.

The venue’s media manager confirmed to Reuters that Potocka was conscious following the incident.

Potocka had finished seventh in the third heat of the event with a time of two minutes 14.20 seconds, which was not fast enough to advance her to the semi-finals. This performance marked the end of her competition at the Paris Olympics.

The Paris 2024 Games represent Potocka’s Olympic debut. Prior to this, she was a four-time finalist at the 2024 European Championships.

The incident has drawn attention to the intense physical demands of Olympic competition and the health challenges athletes may face. Officials are expected to provide updates on Potocka’s condition as they become available.

U.S. Men’s Soccer Team Ends Run at Paris Olympics with Heavy 4-0 Quarterfinal Loss Against Morocco

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The U.S. men’s soccer team’s dream of winning a medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics ended with a decisive 4-0 defeat against Morocco in the quarterfinals on Friday at the Parc des Princes.

Morocco took the lead in the 28th minute when Soufiane Rahimi converted a penalty after Nathan Harriel fouled him in the box. The U.S. struggled to respond, failing to create momentum or level the score.

In the second half, Morocco extended their lead. Ilias Akhomach scored in the 62nd minute, doubling Morocco’s advantage after a brief VAR check. Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi added a third goal in the 69th minute with a stunning solo run from midfield, calmly finishing into the bottom right corner.

Morocco sealed their victory in stoppage time when substitute El Mehdi Maouhoub converted another penalty after Harriel handled the ball in the box.

The U.S. team, which had shown promise in the group stages, failed to maintain their earlier form of free-flowing attack and pace on the wings. Despite creating a few chances, they lacked the clinical finishing needed to get back into the game.

Key factors in the U.S. defeat included:

– Fouling in the box

– Failure to press effectively

– Lack of defensive organization

The pro-Moroccan crowd at Parc des Princes celebrated each goal with flares, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the match.

This victory marks Morocco’s first-ever knockout game win in the Olympics. They will advance to the semifinals to face either Japan or Spain.

For the U.S., this loss ends their Olympic journey and their hopes of reaching the semifinals for the first time since 2000. The team will need to reflect on this performance as they look to the future of their soccer program.

‘I love my black job’: Simone Biles Seems to Respond to Trump After Olympic Win

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Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, who recently won two gold medals in Paris becoming the most decorated U.S. gymnast, made a social media post Friday that appears to reference recent political comments.

Biles, 27, shared a post on X from singer Ricky Davila celebrating her victory. Davila wrote, “Simone Biles being the GOAT, winning Gold medals and dominating gymnastics is her black job.” Biles responded, “I love my black job,” adding a black heart emoji.

The post seems to allude to remarks made by former President Donald Trump during a June debate. Trump stated, “They’re taking Black jobs now and it could be 18, it could be 19 and even 20 million people. They’re taking Black jobs, and they’re taking Hispanic jobs, and you haven’t seen it yet, but you’re going to see something that’s going to be the worst in our history.” He was referring to the role of immigrants in the U.S. economy.

When asked to define a “black job” at the National Association of Black Journalists convention, Trump responded, “A black job is anybody that has a job, that’s what it is. Anybody that has a job.”

The controversy has also brought attention to past comments by Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, Trump’s vice-presidential running mate. In 2021, Vance criticized the praise Biles received after withdrawing from the Tokyo Olympics to focus on her mental health, stating it reflected poorly on society to praise people for their “weakest moments” rather than strength or heroism.

Biles’ recent Olympic success and social media comment have reignited discussions about these political statements, with many social media users defending Biles against Vance’s past criticism.

nbcnews.com

Ghanaian Farmer Sentenced to 20 Years for Attempted Sale of Son

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A 53-year-old farmer, Bashiru Gambo, has been sentenced to 20 years imprisonment with hard labor by the Tarkwa Circuit Court in Ghana for attempting to sell his son. Gambo pleaded guilty to the charge of trading of person, contrary to section 2 (1) of the Human Trafficking Act 694 of 2005.

Superintendent of Police Juliana Essel-Dadzie, prosecuting, told the court that the victim, Alexander Kyeremeh, is a small-scale miner residing in Manukrom near Obuasi. Gambo, the biological father, lived in Wassa-Abreshia, near Wassa Akropong in Ghana.

The court, presided over by Mrs. Hathia Ama Manu, heard that police in Wassa-Nkonya received a tip-off about Gambo’s plan to sell his son. Undercover police officers posed as potential buyers and negotiated with Gambo, agreeing on a price of GH¢80,000 for the son.

Gambo accompanied the undercover officers to Manukrom, where he had arranged to meet his son. After identifying his son to the officers, they all boarded a vehicle together. Once the vehicle was in motion, the officers revealed their identities and arrested Gambo.

At the Wassa Akropong Police Station, Gambo admitted to the offense in his caution statement, claiming economic hardship as his motivation for attempting to sell his son.

The prosecution appealed for a strict sentence, citing an increase in missing persons cases in the area. The court subsequently sentenced Gambo to 20 years imprisonment with hard labor.

Kenyan Court Orders Extradition of Man Accused of Murdering Girlfriend in U.S.

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A court in Kenya on Thursday ordered the extradition of Kevin Kang’ethe to the United States, where he will face first-degree murder charges for the death of his girlfriend, Margaret Mbitu, in November 2023. The Kenyan national is set to be tried in Massachusetts.

Mbitu, a nurse, was found dead with multiple stab wounds in her SUV, parked in a garage at Boston’s Logan Airport, just two days after her family reported her missing. Authorities discovered that Kang’ethe had fled the country on a flight from Logan to Kenya a day before her body was discovered.

Following a three-month international search, Kang’ethe was arrested in Kenya but managed to escape from custody within a week. The escape involved a mini-van getaway, prompting a large-scale manhunt by Kenyan police. He was eventually located at a relative’s house in Nairobi and re-arrested.

In addition to Kang’ethe’s arrest, four police officers, two of Kang’ethe’s relatives, and a lawyer were also detained, accused of facilitating his initial escape. The extradition ruling follows a detailed investigation by Kenyan authorities, who had to untangle a network of alleged accomplices aiding the suspect.

Prosecutors in Nairobi testified that at the time of Kang’ethe’s arrest, he was in possession of items belonging to Mbitu, including her driver’s license, a Bank of America debit card, and a visa card, further linking him to the crime.

The decision to extradite Kang’ethe marks a significant step in the cross-border legal proceedings that have unfolded since Mbitu’s murder. This development reflects the ongoing cooperation between Kenyan and U.S. authorities to bring the suspect to justice and address the crime committed on U.S. soil.

As the legal process continues, both nations are expected to collaborate closely to ensure that Kang’ethe is held accountable under U.S. law, providing a semblance of justice to Mbitu’s family.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Famine Declared in Darfur Region Refugee Camp as Sudan Faces Humanitarian Catastrophe Amidst Ongoing Civil War

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In a dire announcement highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis gripping Sudan, famine has been officially declared in a refugee camp in the Darfur region. The announcement comes from the United Nations-backed Famine Review Committee (FRC), underscoring the devastating toll of the country’s 15-month civil war.

The crisis in Sudan has forced hundreds of thousands into camps where food security organizations struggle to meet the needs of a rapidly growing displaced population.

The Zanzam camp, located near the city of El Fasher in Sudan’s North Darfur state, has been in the throes of famine since June, according to the FRC. The camp’s population has ballooned to nearly half a million people as the civil war continues to displace communities. T

his declaration marks the FRC’s third such announcement since the monitoring system was established two decades ago and the first in more than seven years.

Official declarations of famine are rare and serve as urgent calls for international assistance. They are intended to galvanize global support and unlock funding to mitigate the crisis and prevent further loss of life. The FRC’s assessment is a stark reminder of the escalating humanitarian needs as the conflict shows no signs of abating.

While the famine declaration is currently limited to the Zanzam camp, the FRC has warned that many other areas across Sudan are at significant risk. The ongoing conflict and restricted humanitarian access exacerbate the risk of famine in these regions. The international community is urged to respond swiftly to prevent the situation from worsening.

The conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023 when the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a rebel group, launched an armed uprising against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This conflict has devastated large swathes of the country, including the capital city of Khartoum, and has since spread to other regions.

The UN has labeled the situation in Sudan as one of the most severe humanitarian disasters in recent memory, with over 10 million people displaced internally and more than 25 million facing acute hunger.

The city of El Fasher, where the Zanzam camp is located, has been a focal point of the conflict. For months, it has been besieged by the RSF, further complicating efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to those in desperate need. The ongoing violence has crippled Sudan’s infrastructure, making it exceedingly difficult for aid agencies to operate effectively.

The declaration of famine in the Zanzam camp serves as a clarion call for international action. Humanitarian organizations emphasize the urgent need for increased funding and resources to address the growing crisis. Without immediate intervention, the situation could deteriorate further, leading to more widespread famine and suffering across Sudan.

The international community is being called upon to step up efforts to provide food, medical aid, and shelter to millions of Sudanese caught in the conflict. The UN and various NGOs are advocating for a coordinated response to ensure aid reaches those most in need, despite the challenging circumstances on the ground.

As Sudan faces this unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe, the world watches with growing concern, aware that the actions taken in the coming weeks could determine the fate of millions.

Nigerian Police Consider Military Assistance Amid Violent Protests-AP

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Nigerian police are on red alert and may request military assistance following violent protests against the rising cost of living and governance issues, according to Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

Reuters reporters and protesters reported at least three demonstrators killed in northern Kaduna state on Thursday. Amnesty International claimed on Friday that at least 13 protesters had been killed across three northern states, though authorities have not confirmed any deaths.

While major cities like Abuja and Kano appeared calm on Friday following clashes between police and protesters, further demonstrations are anticipated due to widespread anger over President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms.

Inspector General Egbetokun stated late Thursday that police are fully mobilized and prepared to respond swiftly to any further threats to public order. He added that the police are equipped to handle the situation but may seek assistance from other security agencies, including the military, if necessary.

The “#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria” protests, inspired by youth-led demonstrations in Kenya, have been organized online with plans to continue for 10 days.

Demonstrators gather as they participate in an anti-government demonstration to protest against bad governance and economic hardship in Lagos, Nigeria August 1, 2024. REUTERS/Akintunde Akinleye

Amnesty International accused security forces of deliberately using lethal tactics in Niger state, Maiduguri (capital of Borno state), and Kaduna. A Nigerian police spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment on these allegations.

Kano state has relaxed a 24-hour curfew imposed after protesters looted a shop and a government complex. Three other states have also implemented curfews in some areas.

President Tinubu acknowledges the pain caused by his reforms, which have fueled inflation and weakened the currency, but maintains they are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.

The situation remains tense as authorities attempt to balance public order with citizens’ right to protest against economic hardships.

Zimbabwe Arrests 18 Activists, Including Prize Winner, Before SADC Summit

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Zimbabwe police have arrested 18 political activists, including some who were removed from a plane, according to their lawyers. The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights group reported the detentions, which occurred on Wednesday.

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa

Among those arrested is Namatai Kwekweza, a 25-year-old pro-democracy campaigner and the 2023 winner of the Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize. Kwekweza and three other activists were taken off a plane on the tarmac of the Robert Mugabe International Airport in Harare. An additional 14 activists were arrested the same day for protesting in another town.

The four removed from the plane are charged with disorderly conduct related to a courthouse protest in late June. They had been demanding the release of 77 opposition party members who have been in pre-trial detention for over six weeks.

Amnesty International has condemned the arrests, while the Kofi Annan Foundation expressed deep concern over the incident.

These arrests come as Zimbabwe prepares to host a meeting of southern African heads of state this month. The government had previously warned it would suppress opposition protests ahead of the summit.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who succeeded Robert Mugabe in 2017, faces accusations of cracking down on political opposition similarly to his predecessor. Numerous opposition members, university students, and labor unionists have been arrested since Mnangagwa took office.

Mnangagwa denies being oppressive but has warned against what he terms inciting violence. Authorities have moved to prevent new protests ahead of the southern African leaders’ meeting in Harare on August 17.

Earlier this year, the United States sanctioned Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe’s first lady, and others for alleged involvement in gold and diamond smuggling and human rights abuses.

The recent arrests highlight ongoing tensions between the government and opposition groups in Zimbabwe, drawing international attention as the country prepares to host regional leaders.

apnews.com

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