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Argentina Tops FIFA Men’s Rankings Amid Government Defense Over Racist Chant Controversy

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Argentina was confirmed as the world’s No. 1 team in the FIFA men’s rankings on Thursday, as the national government doubled down on defending the players who celebrated winning the Copa America by singing a racist song targeting No. 2-ranked France.

The fallout of the chant sung late on Sunday in Miami — which mocked the African heritage of some France players — continued four days later, including a rebuke to Argentina’s critics by the vice president in its far-right government.

Argentina’s government on Wednesday fired one of its leading sports officials who urged Lionel Messi and the president of the Argentine Football Association to apologize.

The sports under-secretary, Julio Garro, spoke after FIFA said it was looking into the incident and English club Chelsea started a disciplinary process against its midfielder Enzo Fernandez. He broadcast the footage on social media from the Argentina team bus in Florida.

Fernandez later published an apology on his Instagram account, which disappeared by Thursday, saying he was “truly sorry. That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character.”

However, a defiant post by the vice president of Argentina, Victoria Villarruel, on social media hit back at the country’s critics. “No country with a colonial history is going to put us down for a song sung on a field nor for speaking a truth that nobody wants to admit,” Villarruel wrote.

“Enough of pretending to be offended, hypocrites. Enzo I am with you, Messi I am with you, the whole of Argentina always keeps your heads high! Long live Argentina!” she added.

Fernandez said Argentina’s history had been forged by people of all races: “We always have and will be friends of anyone, nor will we tolerate that someone tries to denigrate us.”

AP

American Man Detained in Germany for Social Media Threats Against Taylor Swift

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An American man who made threats against Taylor Swift on social media was detained ahead of her first concert in the German city of Gelsenkirchen and will be kept in custody until her shows there are over, police said Thursday.

The suspected stalker, a 34-year-old whose name wasn’t released, had a ticket to Swift’s concert at Gelsenkirchen’s Veltins-Arena on Wednesday, police said in a statement. They said that, because an initial investigation couldn’t entirely rule out a risk, he was detained during entry checks to the event.

Police said the man had made threats against Swift and her partner on social media. They said he had been detained following tips from organizers of the event.

The American superstar has shows in Gelsenkirchen on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday as part of her Eras Tour. A local court ordered the suspected stalker to be kept in detention until Saturday, police said.

They added that there was no danger at any point to Swift or to the audience. Wednesday evening’s concert, attended by about 60,000 people, went peacefully.

Ahead of the concerts, Gelsenkirchen put up signs temporarily renaming itself “Swiftkirchen” and honored the singer on a “Walk of Fame” that commemorates local celebrities.

After Gelsenkirchen, Swift plans concerts in two other German cities, Hamburg and Munich.

The Associated Press

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame Secures Landslide Re-election with 99.18% of the Vote

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Rwanda’s long-standing President Paul Kagame has secured another term in office with a staggering 99.18% of the vote, according to the National Electoral Commission. This landslide victory extends Kagame’s rule, which has spanned nearly a quarter of a century, and reinforces his dominant position in Rwandan politics.

The election, held on Monday, saw an exceptionally high voter turnout of 98.20% from the nine million registered voters, as reported by Oda Gasinzigwa, chairperson of the National Electoral Commission. The final results are expected to be officially announced by July 27.

Two opposition candidates, Frank Habineza from the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana, both conceded defeat. However, the election process has been marred by controversy, with rights groups alleging a crackdown on journalists, opposition figures, and civil society groups. The Rwandan government has consistently rejected these criticisms throughout the election period.

Kagame, who has consistently won over 93% of the vote in the last three elections, is widely credited for his role in ending the 1994 Rwandan genocide and transforming the country into an attractive destination for investment and aid. Western and regional leaders have praised his leadership in these areas.

However, Kagame’s reputation has been tarnished by accusations of human rights abuses within Rwanda and allegations of supporting rebels in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. Kagame has repeatedly denied these claims.

The election was marked by the disqualification of eight other potential candidates, including some of Kagame’s most vocal critics. The electoral commission cited various reasons for their exclusion, including incomplete or missing registration documents.

While Kagame’s supporters laud his role in Rwanda’s economic development and stability, international observers and human rights organizations continue to express concerns about political freedoms and human rights in the country. The overwhelming margin of victory is likely to reignite debates about the state of democracy in Rwanda.

As Rwanda moves forward under Kagame’s continued leadership, the international community will be watching closely to see how the country balances its economic progress with calls for greater political openness and respect for human rights.

Spanish Boy with Rare Condition Lives in Permanent Shade to Survive Dangerous Sunlight

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Pol Dominguez Aranda, 11, who is diagnosed with Xeroderma pigmentosum - extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet rays - wears UV protection gear to leave school in Barcelona, Spain, June 18, 2024. REUTERS/ Albert Gea

In Barcelona, Spain, 11-year-old Pol Dominguez experiences summer holidays unlike most children his age. Instead of enjoying the beach or pool, Pol spends his days indoors, shielded from the ultraviolet radiation that could prove fatal for him.

Pol Dominguez Aranda, 11, who is diagnosed with Xeroderma pigmentosum – extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet rays – wears UV protection gear to leave school in Barcelona, Spain, June 18, 2024. REUTERS/ Albert Gea

Pol suffers from Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP), an extremely rare genetic disorder affecting only 2.3 per million live births in Western Europe. This condition renders him unable to repair DNA damage caused by sun exposure, putting him at high risk of developing cancer. In Pol’s case, even brief exposure to sunlight can cause severe burns.

Living with XP has forced Pol and his family to radically alter their lifestyle. When venturing outside, even in winter, Pol must wear a hood, jacket, sunglasses, and gloves for protection. During summer, he remains indoors as much as possible, and when he must go out, he endures uncomfortable protective clothing despite the heat.

Pol’s school has made significant adaptations to accommodate his condition. Windows and lights have been modified to create a safe environment, allowing him to participate in a relatively normal school life. However, he still needs to bundle up for outdoor activities and carries a UV meter to ensure his surroundings are safe.

At home, Pol’s family has created a UV-light-proof environment. Protective film covers the windows, blinds are kept lowered, and fans ensure good ventilation. His mother, Xenia Aranda, explains that their family activities shift to nighttime. “At around 10 p.m. we say: ‘What would we like to do, Pol? Go to the beach, grab an ice cream, go for a run?'” she shares.

During part of his summer, Pol stays with his grandfather, Ferran Aranda, in Portbou near the French border. As the sun sets, Pol can finally enjoy the beach without his protective gear. Simple pleasures like eating ice cream outside or playing with his towel bring joy to his face.

However, the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves due to climate change pose additional risks for Pol and others with XP. Dr. Asuncion Vicente, a pediatric dermatologist at Barcelona’s Sant Joan de Deu hospital, warns, “The more hours of sunshine, the more solar damage. Therefore more illness.”

Pol’s story sheds light on the challenges faced by those living with rare genetic disorders and the extreme measures some families must take to protect their loved ones. It also underscores the broader implications of climate change on human health, particularly for those with heightened sensitivity to environmental factors.

As Pol continues to navigate life with XP, his resilience and adaptability serve as an inspiration, while his condition highlights the need for greater awareness and research into rare genetic disorders.

Credit: Reuters

Ghana Music Producer Spiky Wins $250,000 in Copyright Case Against CAF

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In a landmark decision for the creative industry in Ghana, music producer Spiky (born Kwabena Ofei-Kwadey Nkrumah) has won a significant legal battle against the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over copyright infringement. The Commercial Court 7 in Accra delivered its verdict on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, finding CAF guilty of unauthorized use of Spiky’s music.

The Case and Verdict

The court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Loddoh, ruled that CAF had infringed on Spiky’s copyright by using the beat from his track “Okomfo Anokye” in promotional materials for the 2018 CAF awards without seeking permission. As a result, CAF has been ordered to pay damages equivalent to USD 250,000 and legal costs of GHS 40,000.

Background of the Dispute

Spiky first raised the issue in 2019 through a series of tweets, accusing CAF of copyright infringement. Despite CAF’s admission of using the work without consent and their subsequent apology, they failed to respond to Spiky’s demand for compensation, leading to the legal action.

CAF’s Defense

In their defense, CAF claimed that the musical work was “available online for free download without any restrictions or conditions.” They also argued that the CAF Awards was not a profit-making venture and that they had removed the work from their social media platforms upon realizing the infringement.

Implications for the Creative Industry

This verdict represents a significant win for artists and producers in Ghana and potentially across Africa. It underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and the potential consequences of unauthorized use of creative works, even by major organizations.

Spiky’s Reaction

Expressing his excitement on social media, Spiky, who is also known as a tech expert, celebrated the verdict as “A win for the creative industry: CAF vs Spiky’s.” This statement highlights the broader implications of the case for creators across various fields.

Looking Forward

This case sets a precedent for how copyright infringement cases might be handled in Ghana and potentially in other African countries. It serves as a reminder to organizations to be diligent in obtaining proper licenses for creative works, even when they are freely available online. For artists and producers, it reinforces the importance of protecting their intellectual property and pursuing legal action when necessary.

As the creative industry continues to evolve in the digital age, this verdict may encourage more robust discussions about copyright laws, fair use, and the value of creative works in the African context.

Transfer Rumors: Haaland Rejects Real Madrid, Bayern Eyes Simons, and More Football (Soccer) News

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The football transfer market continues to buzz with activity as top clubs across Europe vie for talent. Here’s a roundup of the latest transfer rumors and potential moves:

Haaland Rejects Real Madrid, Considers Barcelona

Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland has reportedly ruled out a move to Real Madrid following Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu. Sources suggest Haaland is unwilling to share the spotlight with the French star and is instead considering a potential move to Barcelona next summer.

Bayern Munich Pursues Xavi Simons

Bayern Munich has emerged as the frontrunner in the race to sign Xavi Simons from Paris Saint-Germain. The Bundesliga giants are reportedly working on a loan deal with an obligation to buy, potentially worth up to €90 million.

Premier League Clubs Battle for Defenders

Liverpool is intensifying efforts to secure Sporting CP centre-back Goncalo Inacio, competing with Manchester United and Arsenal for the player’s signature. Inacio’s contract includes a €60 million release clause.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid is considering a move for Al Nassr’s Aymeric Laporte after missing out on Leny Yoro, who’s set to join Manchester United.

PSG Closes in on Joao Neves

Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly nearing a €70 million deal for Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, potentially beating Manchester United to his signature.

Other Notable Rumors:

– Newcastle United has held talks with Juventus winger Federico Chiesa.

– Atletico Madrid is eyeing Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez as a replacement for Alvaro Morata.

– Chelsea joins Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Napoli in pursuit of Atletico Madrid’s Mario Hermoso.

– Tottenham’s Richarlison is attracting interest from Saudi Arabian clubs Al Ittihad and Al Qadsiah.

– West Ham United leads the race for Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson, valued at £25 million.

– Everton is close to securing a loan deal for Napoli midfielder Jesper Lindstrom with a £21 million purchase option.

These rumors highlight the dynamic nature of the football transfer market, with clubs across Europe actively seeking to strengthen their squads. As the transfer window progresses, some of these potential moves may materialize, reshaping team rosters for the upcoming season.

90min.com

Javier Mascherano Defends Argentina Players Over ‘Taken Out of Context’ Racist Chants Video

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Argentina’s Olympic coach Javier Mascherano defends national team players after a video showing racist chants post-Copa America victory is claimed to be taken out of context. Read more on the controversy and Mascherano’s response.

Javier Mascherano, the coach of Argentina’s Olympic football squad, addressed a controversy on Wednesday involving a video showing national team players allegedly engaging in racist chants after their Copa America win. Mascherano insisted the video was “taken out of context” and defended his players against accusations of racism.

“Argentines, if there’s one thing we’re not, it’s racists, far from that,” Mascherano stated during a press conference at Argentina’s pre-Olympic training base in northwestern France.

The controversial chants were heard in a live video posted on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The footage, filmed on the team bus following Argentina’s Copa America victory over Colombia in Miami on Sunday, quickly sparked backlash online.

“I know Enzo, he’s a great guy. He doesn’t have any problems like that,” Mascherano asserted, emphasizing Fernandez’s character.

Mascherano explained that the video was misinterpreted and that it was a common post-victory celebration among the players. “Often, as part of a celebration, you can take part of a video and take it out of context,” he said.

The coach’s statements aim to quell the controversy and reassure fans and the public of the team’s integrity. The incident highlights the complexities and potential misunderstandings surrounding celebratory moments in sports, especially in the age of social media where clips can be easily misconstrued.

Spanish FA President Suspended for Two Years Following European Championship Victory

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The president of the Spanish Football Association (FA) has been suspended from all football activities for two years. This comes just days after the Spanish team’s triumphant European Championship win in Berlin. The suspension was handed down by Spain’s Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD), citing multiple infractions and abuse of authority.

The decision follows a series of controversies that began with his predecessor, Luis Rubiales. Rubiales faced widespread criticism and legal action after forcibly kissing Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso during the Women’s World Cup trophy presentation in the summer of 2023. Although Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, he was handed a three-year ban from FIFA and now faces trial for sexual assault and coercion.

Rocha, who took over as the interim president and was later appointed permanently, has now come under scrutiny for his conduct. TAD found that he had overstepped his authority, particularly in the dismissal of former general secretary Andreu Camps. This decision, along with two other infractions, led to additional fines amounting to £13,880 (€16,527).

The tribunal’s ruling emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership in football administration. Rocha’s actions were deemed an ‘abuse of authority,’ reinforcing the need for accountability at the highest levels of sports governance.

The Spanish FA has not yet commented on the suspension, but the decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to maintain integrity within the organization. The ban serves as a reminder of the rigorous standards expected from those in leadership positions within the football community.

Kenya Police Ban Protests in Nairobi Amid Rising Tensions and Violence

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The authorities in Kenya have imposed an indefinite ban on protests in the capital city of Nairobi, citing concerns over public safety and a lack of leadership to ensure peaceful demonstrations. This decision comes amid a month of political unrest that has seen violent clashes, property damage, and allegations of police brutality.

Acting police inspector general Douglas Kanja announced the ban just hours before a planned march to the president’s office, where demonstrators intended to call for President William Ruto’s resignation over alleged poor governance. Kanja stated that the “lack of leadership had made it difficult to enforce safety protocols,” justifying the ban as a necessary measure to maintain order.

The protests, which began on June 18, initially focused on opposition to a controversial finance bill proposing higher taxes amidst a cost-of-living crisis and growing public debt. These demonstrations have resulted in significant economic losses for businesses due to looting and property damage. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reports that at least 50 people have died since the protests began.

In response to the unrest, President Ruto has made several concessions. He announced he would not sign the contentious finance bill passed by parliament on June 25 – the same day protesters stormed and partially burned the parliament building. Last week, Ruto dismissed almost his entire cabinet and the attorney general, addressing protesters’ accusations of incompetence and corruption among government officials.

The protests have been marred by accusations of excessive force by law enforcement. Former inspector general of police Japhet Koome resigned last Friday following calls for accountability over the shooting of protesters. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority is currently investigating multiple cases of police brutality in Kenya, with four out of ten cases already forwarded to the director of public prosecutions.

Kenyan President Ruto

Many businesses in Nairobi remained closed on Thursday in anticipation of planned protests, despite the ban. Police maintained a heavy presence around the central business district, patrolling the streets amid the tense atmosphere.

The controversy surrounding Kenyan police actions takes on additional significance given that a contingent of 400 Kenyan officers is currently leading a UN-backed police mission in Haiti to combat gang violence. This international deployment contrasts sharply with the domestic criticism of police conduct.

As Kenya grapples with this political crisis, the protest ban raises questions about freedom of assembly and the balance between public safety and democratic rights. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this measure reduces tensions or further inflames the ongoing conflict between the government and its critics.

University Students Protest 10-Hour Electricity Rationing and Tuition Hike in Ibadan, Nigeria

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Students at the University of Ibadan, located in the southwest region of Nigeria, staged a protest on Wednesday to express their grievances over a new electricity rationing schedule and a recent hike in tuition fees imposed by the university management.

Reports from PUNCH Metro, Nigeria indicate that the students were provoked by the announcement of a 10-hour daily power supply on campus, incessant tuition increases, and what they termed “outrageous fees” introduced by the authorities.

The protest began in the late hours of Tuesday and continued into Wednesday, with students carrying placards at the university gate.

An internal memo addressed to the Chief Engineer (Electrical) by the Director of Works and Maintenance Department, O.A. Adelotu, indicated that electricity would be rationed and made available to students for 10 hours daily. The memo, issued on Tuesday, outlined the approved schedule: 8 am – 2 pm for daytime and 10 pm – 2 am for nighttime.

“Effective immediately, the Vice Chancellor has approved a 10-hour daily electricity supply on campus as follows: Day time: 8 am – 2 pm; Night time: 10 pm-2 am. Kindly adhere to the approved schedule,” the memo read.

In a voice clip obtained by our correspondent, the Students’ Union President, Aweda Bolaji, condemned the recent policies implemented by the university management as “not satisfactory” and described them as “an inconsiderate action.”

Bolaji stated, “The injustice that has been meted upon us as students of the University of Ibadan is getting too much. The university cannot ration electricity in this 21st century. On this basis, if you are a student, come out and join us as we protest peacefully against the injustice we face.”

The protest highlights the growing discontent among students regarding the administration’s policies and calls for immediate resolution to ensure a conducive learning environment.

Credit: Punchng

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