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French President Macron Expected to Accept Prime Minister’s Resignation Amid Political Turmoil

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Paris, France, July 2024 – French President Emmanuel Macron is widely anticipated to formally accept the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal on Tuesday, while retaining him as the head of a caretaker government.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal offered his resignation last week following a chaotic election result that left the government in disarray. President Macron asked Attal to temporarily remain as the head of the government pending further decisions, especially as France prepares to host the Paris Olympics and remains under international scrutiny.

French media reports indicate that Macron is expected to formally accept Attal’s resignation by Tuesday evening. This move would enable Attal to resume his role as a lawmaker in the National Assembly, France’s lower house of government, and lead Macron’s centrist allies. It would also protect him from a potential no-confidence vote in parliament.

The opening session of the National Assembly is scheduled for Thursday. The caretaker government, led by Attal, will focus solely on handling day-to-day affairs until a new prime minister is appointed. There is no firm timeline for Macron to name Attal’s successor, although a Cabinet meeting was held on Tuesday.

France has been teetering on the edge of a governmental paralysis since the National Assembly elections earlier this month. The elections resulted in a split among three major political factions: The New Popular Front leftist coalition, Macron’s centrist allies, and the far-right National Rally led by Marine Le Pen.

While Macron’s centrist party won the most seats, it fell short of achieving an outright majority needed to govern independently. The leftist coalition’s three main parties, the hard-left France Unbowed, the Socialist Party, and the Greens, have pressed the president to unite them to form the government.

Kenyan Court Allows 30-Day Detention of Suspect in Dismembered Dumpsite Bodies Case

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A court in Kenya has granted police permission to detain Collins Jumaisi Khalusha, 33, for 30 days as investigations continue into the discovery of dismembered women’s bodies in a flooded quarry. Khalusha appeared in Makadara court on Tuesday, accompanied by his lawyer who had objected to the police’s request for extended detention.

Since Friday, police have been retrieving dismembered bodies from a quarry near the suspect’s residence. The search has yielded 10 bodies and various body parts, along with phones, identity cards, and a machete found at Khalusha’s home. Two families have tentatively identified their relatives among the victims, pending DNA confirmation.

Mohamed Amin, head of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, reported that the suspect confessed to killing 42 women, including his wife, since 2022. However, authorities have not provided evidence to support this claim.

The case came to light after relatives of a missing woman claimed to have had a dream directing them to search the quarry. A local diver, enlisted by the family, discovered the bodies wrapped in sacks.

In response to the case, acting police inspector general Douglas Kanja announced the transfer of officers from a nearby police station to facilitate investigations. Local residents had accused the police of negligence, given the quarry’s proximity to the station and numerous unresolved missing persons cases.

Human rights groups have called on Kenya’s security agencies to expedite investigations into all reports of enforced disappearances. Initial concerns had linked the bodies to abductions and arrests during recent anti-government protests.

This case has shocked the nation and raised questions about law enforcement effectiveness and the safety of women in Kenya. As investigations continue, the focus remains on identifying victims, understanding the full scope of the crimes, and ensuring justice is served.

AP

Again, Team USA to Send Majority Female Roster to Paris 2024 Olympics!

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Washington, D.C., July 2024 – For the fourth consecutive Summer Olympics, Team USA will feature more women than men in its roster. The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced on Wednesday the 592-member contingent that will compete in Paris later this month.

Roster and Representation

The lineup includes 314 women and 278 men, spanning ages from 16 to 59, with representation from 46 states. Among the athletes are 66 Olympic champions who have collectively earned 110 gold medals. The team also boasts three five-time Olympians, including basketball standout Diana Taurasi and equestrians Steffen Peters and McLain Ward.

Opening Ceremony and Competition Dates

The opening ceremony in Paris is set for July 26, with athletes arriving in boats along the Seine River towards the Eiffel Tower. The competition will commence on July 24 and conclude on August 11.

Medal Predictions and Support

Team USA is favored to top the medal tally, with Nielsen’s Gracenote forecasting 123 medals, including 37 gold. USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland expressed pride in the athletes, stating, “As they prepare to represent our nation on the greatest stage in all of sports, we honor their personal achievements and celebrate the unwavering support of the people that make it possible—their families, teammates, national governing bodies, coaches, and communities around the country.”

Young and Veteran Athletes

Among the team are a trio of 16-year-olds heading to Paris, including artistic gymnast Hezly Rivera, the youngest member. The oldest athlete on the roster is Steffen Peters, aged 59.

UFC’s Drew Dober Maintains Positive Outlook After Bloody Loss to Jean Silva

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UFC lightweight Drew Dober has responded with grace and resilience following a brutal loss to Brazil’s Jean Silva at UFC Fight Night in Denver. The fight, which took place at Ball Arena on Saturday’s main card, ended in a doctor’s stoppage due to a severe cut above Dober’s right eye, resulting in one of the most gruesome scenes in recent UFC history.

The 35-year-old American, who trains with Elevation Fight Team, fell victim to Silva’s precise and sharp striking. By the end of the second round, the cut on Dober’s face had become alarmingly severe, prompting referee Herb Dean to call for an official timeout less than two minutes into the third round. The cage-side doctor subsequently waved off the fight, declaring Silva the winner by TKO.

Despite the loss, Dober took to social media to express gratitude towards his fans and reflect positively on the experience. “Such an honor to be able to step in there and show off my heart and determination,” Dober wrote, accompanying a photo of his stitched-up cut. He added, “There is no shame in failure. Just an opportunity to become a better man.”

The fight statistics highlight the intensity of the bout, with Dober landing 59 of 147 significant strikes, while Silva connected on 53 of 109 attempts. Silva’s effective use of elbow strikes proved to be the decisive factor in the contest.

Both fighters displayed exemplary sportsmanship throughout the match. Before the ill-fated third round, Dober and Silva shared a hug and touched gloves at the center of the Octagon. After the fight, Silva praised Dober for his heart and determination.

This victory marks Silva’s second win in two weeks, following his knockout of Charles Jourdain at UFC 303. His record now stands at an impressive 14-2, with 11 knockouts and two submissions, as he continues his ascent in the UFC lightweight rankings. Conversely, Dober’s record moves to 27-14 after suffering his second consecutive loss.

Dober’s positive attitude in the face of defeat and his acknowledgment of the opportunities for growth that come with setbacks serve as a testament to his character and professionalism in the often brutal world of mixed martial arts.

Argentina’s Copa America Champions Receive Hero’s Welcome on Return Home

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Argentina’s victorious Copa America team returned home to a hero’s welcome on Tuesday, greeted by thousands of jubilant fans at the Ministerio Pistarini International Airport. The team’s arrival, just 24 hours after their triumphant 1-0 win over Colombia in the final, marked a moment of national celebration for their record 16th Copa America title.

Led by coach Lionel Scaloni and winger Angel Di Maria, who played his final match for the Albiceleste, the team’s arrival after 9:30 pm was met with an outpouring of emotion from supporters. Di Maria, having surpassed 100 appearances for Argentina and boasting an impressive trophy haul including Olympic gold, two Copa America titles, and the 2022 World Cup, was the center of attention.

Former Argentine international Javier Zanetti, recently surpassed by Di Maria on the list of most appearances for the national team, was present to welcome the champions. Zanetti expressed his gratitude to Di Maria for his representation of Argentina on the world stage, suggesting a farewell game in Argentina for the retiring star.

Notably absent was Lionel Messi, who remained in the United States with his club Inter Miami. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez and left-back Nicolas Tagliafico also stayed behind, along with three players set to join the under-23 team for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.

The celebration extended beyond the airport, with crowds of children on winter school holidays eagerly awaiting the arrival of their heroes. A bus emblazoned with “Welcome champions!” stood ready to transport the team through throngs of adoring fans.

This homecoming celebration not only honors the team’s impressive achievement but also symbolizes a moment of national unity and pride for Argentina. The success of the national team, building on their 2022 World Cup victory, continues to inspire and galvanize the country, highlighting the significant role of football in Argentine culture and identity.

Jude Bellingham’s Heated Exchange with Gareth Southgate During Euro 2024 Final Loss Revealed!

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Reports have surfaced of a tense moment between England midfielder Jude Bellingham and manager Gareth Southgate during the Euro 2024 final, where England suffered a 2-1 defeat to Spain in Berlin. According to ESPN’s Mark Ogden, Bellingham “lost it” with Southgate in the closing stages of the match, urging the manager to make tactical changes.

The incident reportedly occurred just before Harry Kane was substituted off with 30 minutes remaining. Bellingham, visibly frustrated, confronted Southgate on the sidelines, seemingly imploring him to “change something, do something.” This outburst came as England struggled to match Spain’s dominance in midfield during the second half.

Bellingham, who had an outstanding season with Real Madrid prior to the tournament, found himself struggling with fatigue as the final progressed. The 21-year-old’s frustration appeared to stem from Kane’s ineffectiveness against Spain’s robust defense, with England’s play noticeably improving after Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer were introduced.

Despite this heated exchange, Bellingham demonstrated leadership after the final whistle, consoling his emotional teammates as they received their runners-up medals. The young star’s actions highlight the intense emotions and high stakes of the tournament final.

This incident has added to the speculation surrounding Southgate’s future as England manager. Having led the team since 2016 and reached two European Championship finals, Southgate now faces pressure to step down after another near-miss in a major tournament. The English FA had previously indicated their desire for Southgate to continue through the 2026 World Cup, but alternative options may now be explored.

As England regroups from this defeat, attention turns to the team’s future and potential changes in leadership. Bellingham’s frustration during the final underscores the passionate desire for success within the squad and the ongoing challenges faced by England in their quest for major tournament glory.

Daily MailOnline

Gareth Southgate Resigns as England Manager Following Euro 2024 Final Defeat

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Gareth Southgate has announced his resignation as England manager following the team’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin. In a statement shared via the official England social media accounts, Southgate expressed that it was “time for change” after managing the Three Lions for 102 games since taking charge in autumn 2016.

Southgate’s tenure, which began in 2016, saw England reach several milestones, including a World Cup semi-final in 2018, the final of Euro 2020 (played in 2021), and the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup. His leadership brought England closer to major tournament success than they had been in decades.

The 53-year-old’s decision comes after a period of reflection following the Euro 2024 final. Despite bringing England back from behind to level with Spain, a late winner for the Spanish side ended England’s hopes of clinching their first major trophy since 1966.

Reactions to Southgate’s resignation have been overwhelmingly positive, with figures from across the sporting world and beyond praising his impact. Prince William thanked Southgate for his “humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny.” Gary Lineker, former England striker, commended Southgate for bringing “pride, respect and a togetherness to England that we hadn’t seen for a long time.”

Current players, including Declan Rice and Jordan Pickford, expressed gratitude for Southgate’s guidance. Rice posted on Instagram, saying, “Thank you, Gaffer. It’s been a privilege to play for England under your guidance. Memories that will stay with me forever.”

Southgate’s departure marks the end of an era for English football, during which he transformed the national team’s fortunes and rebuilt its relationship with fans. His successor will face the challenge of building on this legacy and potentially leading England to their first major trophy in nearly six decades.

As speculation begins about Southgate’s replacement, the football world reflects on a tenure that brought England tantalizingly close to glory and restored pride in the national team. Southgate’s impact on English football will likely be felt for years to come, both in terms of on-field success and the culture surrounding the national team.

news.sky.com

Nigeria Lost $1.84bn in Petroleum Products Over Nine Years Due to Refinery Theft, NEITI Reveals

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Lagos, Nigeria, July 2024 – The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, has disclosed that Nigeria lost $1.84 billion worth of petroleum products from its refineries over a span of nine years due to theft.

Dr. Orji made this announcement on Monday during the opening ceremony of the 2024 NEITI board retreat and meeting in Lagos. He detailed that between 2009 and 2018, approximately 4.2 billion liters of petroleum products were stolen from refineries, equating to an estimated daily loss of 140,000 barrels.

The increasing trend of oil theft has been a significant concern for Nigeria. According to NEITI’s figures, the 2009 to 2020 audits revealed that Nigeria’s losses to crude oil theft over a 12-year period amounted to 619.7 million barrels, valued at $46.16 billion (N16.25 trillion). Specifically, the theft from refineries between 2009 and 2018 resulted in a loss of 4.2 billion liters of petroleum products valued at $1.84 billion.

Dr. Orji emphasized the adverse effects these losses have had on the economy, noting that the previous administration had established a special panel to study oil theft and losses. He stressed that these ongoing issues necessitate urgent action to mitigate further economic damage.

NEITI has conducted a comprehensive report and made recommendations on addressing oil theft in Nigeria. Dr. Orji urged the current administration to review and implement these recommendations to tackle the problem effectively.

The five-day retreat is seen as a critical opportunity to discuss and develop new strategies for dealing with the challenges of oil theft, illegal mining, pipeline vandalism, and other governance issues contributing to revenue loss and investment discouragement.

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Spain’s Euro 2024 Hero Lamine Yamal Goes Public with Girlfriend After Championship Victory

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In a heartwarming moment following Spain’s thrilling 2-1 victory over England in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, 17-year-old soccer sensation Lamine Yamal publicly celebrated with his girlfriend Julia Padilla. The young couple’s appearance together marked a significant personal milestone for Yamal, complementing his professional triumph on the international stage.

Yamal, who turned 17 just a day before the final, played a crucial role in Spain’s victory, showcasing his trademark skills by assisting Nico Williams for Spain’s opening goal. This performance capped off an extraordinary month that has catapulted the teenage winger into the global spotlight.

Julia Padilla, a social media influencer with over 300,000 TikTok followers, showed her support by wearing a Spain jersey adorned with Yamal’s name and number. The couple was photographed together on the victory podium, with Padilla clutching the championship trophy while embracing Yamal.

Adding to the family celebration, Yamal’s father, Mounir Nasraoui, was also present. Nasraoui had confidently predicted his son’s stellar performance before the match, a faith that was spectacularly vindicated.

Reports suggest that Padilla attended several of Spain’s Euro 2024 matches, often sitting with Yamal’s family. Speculation about their relationship had been growing throughout the tournament, particularly after Padilla was spotted with Yamal’s relatives in the dugout during earlier games.

This public appearance not only celebrates Spain’s Euro 2024 victory but also offers a glimpse into the personal life of one of soccer’s brightest young talents. As Yamal’s star continues to rise in the football world, this moment serves as a reminder of the human side of sports success, blending personal happiness with professional achievement.

DailyMailOnline

Colombian Soccer Chief and Son Arrested at Copa America Final Amid Chaotic Scenes

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The head of Colombian soccer, Ramon Jesurun, and his son were arrested at the Copa America final in Miami, amid scenes of chaos that saw thousands of ticketless fans storm the Hard Rock Stadium. The incident occurred hours after Colombia’s 1-0 loss to Argentina in a final marred by significant security breaches and delays.

The head of Colombian soccer, Ramon Jesurun

According to a Miami-Dade Police Department report, the Jesuruns were arrested on three felony counts of battery on a specified official or employee. The pair allegedly became confrontational with security guards near a media tunnel around 12:20 am on Monday, with the situation escalating into a physical altercation.

Jesurun’s son, Ramon Jamil Jesurun, also accused of fighting security guards in Miami

The arrests were part of a larger security breakdown at the event. Miami-Dade Police reported a total of 27 arrests and 55 ejections from the match. Univision estimated the stadium was 7,000 people over capacity, with fans filling aisles and causing an 80-minute delay to the kick-off.

CONMEBOL, the South American soccer governing body, has shifted blame to Hard Rock Stadium officials for the security failures. In a statement, CONMEBOL claimed their recommendations for handling events of this magnitude were not taken into account by stadium authorities.

The chaotic scenes have raised concerns about Hard Rock Stadium’s readiness to host seven games at the 2026 World Cup. James Reyes, chief of public safety for Miami-Dade County, announced a comprehensive review of all safety and security protocols in preparation for the upcoming World Cup.

This incident is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding the Copa America, including complaints about high ticket prices, far-flung stadiums, and security issues at earlier matches. The tournament, meant to showcase inter-confederation camaraderie, has instead been plagued by organizational problems and security concerns.

As investigations continue, the arrests of the Colombian soccer chief and his son highlight the broader issues of event management and security in international soccer tournaments. The incident serves as a wake-up call for organizers of future major sporting events, particularly as Miami prepares to host World Cup matches in 2026.

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