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Meta Lifts Restrictions on Donald Trump’s Facebook and Instagram Accounts

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Restrictions placed on the Facebook and Instagram accounts of former President Donald Trump 17 months ago are being lifted, Meta, the parent company of both platforms, announced on Friday.

In a blog post on Friday afternoon, Meta stated that the decision was made to remove the restrictions ahead of the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. Trump is the presumptive Republican presidential nominee.

“The American people should be able to hear from the nominees for President on the same basis,” wrote Nick Clegg, Meta’s president of global affairs. As a result, former President Trump, as the nominee of the Republican Party, will no longer be subject to the heightened suspension penalties.

In an email to CBS News, Meta spokesperson Nkechi Nneji explained that the company was “simply bringing presumptive GOP nominee Trump to parity with President Biden.”

Trump’s accounts were suspended indefinitely in the days following the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. The company determined that his posts had potentially fueled and encouraged the violence that occurred that day. In June 2021, Meta, then known as Facebook, issued Trump a two-year suspension on the accounts, retroactive to January 2021.

Trump’s accounts were reactivated in February 2023, with the caveat that Meta would issue “heightened penalties for repeat offenses.”

Former South African National Soccer Team Coach, Stanley ‘Screamer’ Tshabalala Dies at 75

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Stanley ‘Screamer’ Tshabalala, a legendary figure in South African football and a former coach of the national team Bafana Bafana, has died at the age of 75. His death marks the end of an era for South African football, where he had been an influential figure both on and off the field.

Tshabalala succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent home invasion in March of this year. He had been hospitalized since the incident, and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he passed away. This tragic event has left the football community in shock and mourning.

The Orlando Pirates, where Tshabalala held the position of technical director, confirmed the news of his passing. In an official statement, the club expressed deep sadness:

“The Tshabalala and Orlando Pirates Family is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of Stanley Tshabalala this afternoon in the hospital. Bra Stan, as he was affectionately known, succumbed to the injuries sustained during the March shooting incident.”

Stanley Tshabalala’s contributions to South African football are immense. He played a crucial role in the development of the sport in the country, both as a coach and an administrator. Tshabalala also served as a coach for the Sundowns and was instrumental in shaping the careers of many young footballers.

His tenure with the Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana highlighted his strategic mind and passion for the game. Tshabalala’s influence extended beyond the pitch as he became a mentor and father figure to many players and coaches in South African football.

Tributes have been flooding social media as fans, colleagues, and players remember Tshabalala’s contributions and mourn his loss. Here are some notable tributes:

– @DlaminiDukani: “RIP, Mr. Shabalala. We shall remember you. I didn’t know much more about him but ‘sitting with Stan’ taught me a lot. God bless his family.”

– @MotjabFendi: “Rest In Perfect Peace, Ntate Tshabalala ????????️????️????️????️.”

– @InspiryDay: “Rest in peace????, legend. Your passion for your job was inspiring.”

– @GoitseMarake: “One of Mzansi’s greatest sports legends. #MHSRIP, strength and comfort to the family and the sporting fraternity at large.”

Stanley Tshabalala’s passing leaves a significant void in the South African football community. His contributions have shaped the sport’s landscape in the country, and his absence will be deeply felt. As the community continues to honor his legacy, Tshabalala’s influence will undoubtedly endure through the many lives he touched and the game he so dearly loved.

Judge Dismisses Rudy Giuliani’s Bankruptcy Case, Criticizes Conduct and Transparency

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A federal judge has dismissed Rudy Giuliani’s bankruptcy case, slamming the former New York City mayor as a “recalcitrant debtor” who attempted to misuse the process to shield himself from a $148 million defamation judgment and other debts.

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Sean Lane criticized Giuliani for repeated “uncooperative conduct,” self-dealing, and a lack of transparency. The judge highlighted Giuliani’s failures to comply with court orders, disclose income sources, and hire an accountant to review his finances.

“Such a failure is a clear red flag,” Judge Lane wrote.

The dismissal of the case ends Giuliani’s pursuit of bankruptcy protection but does not absolve him of his debts. Creditors can now pursue other legal remedies to recover the money they are owed, including obtaining court orders to seize his properties and other assets.

Giuliani is now free to appeal the defamation verdict that requires him to pay $148 million in damages. The verdict arises from his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in favor of Donald Trump.

During a hearing on Wednesday, Judge Lane indicated his intention to dismiss the case. Giuliani’s lawyer had considered other options to keep the case alive but ultimately agreed that dismissal was the best course of action. The dismissal includes a 12-month ban on Giuliani filing for bankruptcy protection again.

“Transparency with Mr. Giuliani’s finances has proven to be an elusive goal,” Lane wrote, adding, “he sees no evidence that this will change.”

In his conclusions, Judge Lane noted Giuliani’s attempts to hide his income, including at least $15,000 a month from his canceled talk radio show and properties he owned. Giuliani also failed to report income from these entities, did not pay taxes on profits from promoting his “Rudy Coffee” brand, and was working on a deal to write a book.

Massive Search Underway as Two Buses Swept into Nepal’s Trishuli River, At Least 60 Missing

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In a tragic incident that underscores the dangers of Nepal’s monsoon season, at least 60 people are missing after two buses were swept off a major highway into the swollen Trishuli River. The disaster occurred in the early hours of Friday morning, approximately 120 kilometers west of Kathmandu, sparking a large-scale rescue operation.

The buses were traveling on a highway connecting the capital to southern parts of Nepal when they were swept away near Simaltal. Three survivors who managed to swim to safety are currently receiving treatment in a nearby hospital, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy.

Rescue efforts are being hampered by continuous rain, poor visibility, and the threat of further landslides. The Nepalese authorities have mobilized both army and police forces to assist in the search, but as of late morning, the submerged vehicles had not been located. The brown, swollen waters of the Trishuli River, a result of torrential monsoon downpours, are making it extremely difficult for rescuers to spot any wreckage.

Adding to the grim toll, a third bus was hit by another landslide on the same highway, resulting in the death of the driver. The fate of any other passengers remains unclear. In a separate incident, a family of seven perished when a landslide buried their hut near the resort town of Pokhara on Thursday night.

These incidents are part of a wider crisis gripping Nepal as it battles the effects of an intense monsoon season. Since mid-June, nearly 100 people have lost their lives due to flooding and landslides across the mountainous nation. The extreme weather has also caused significant damage to infrastructure, with many routes blocked by landslides in several places.

Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal expressed his sorrow over the recent events and voiced concern about the ongoing flooding and landslides affecting the country. As the search continues for those missing in the Trishuli River, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of extreme weather events and the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response mechanisms in vulnerable regions.

The international community watches anxiously as Nepal grapples with this unfolding tragedy, hoping for positive news amidst the challenging rescue efforts.

UPDATED: Tragic School Building Collapse in Jos, Nigeria: Death Toll Rises to 17, Over 120 Trapped

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Pic.9. People rescue one of the students of the Collapsed Saint Academy School, Jos on Friday (12/7/24). 0159/JULY/12/7/2024/Sunday Adah/MO/NAN

Reports now indicate that the devastating incident that shocked the city of Jos in Plateau State, Nigeria, in which a school building collapsed at Saint Academy, resulted in at least 17 deaths and left over 120 people trapped. The tragedy, which occurred on Friday morning around 8:30 a.m., has prompted an urgent response from local and state authorities.

People rescue one of the students of the Collapsed Saint Academy School, Jos on Friday (12/7/24).

The Plateau State Government, through its Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, expressed deep sadness over the incident, describing it as an “avoidable tragedy.” Initial reports suggest that the building’s weak structure and unsafe location near a riverbank may have contributed to the collapse.

Emergency response teams, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Red Cross, and security agencies, have been working tirelessly to rescue trapped students and teachers. Various hospitals within Jos are transporting the victims for urgent medical attention.

Sunday, Àbdu, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, provided a grim update on the casualties. Bingham University Teaching Hospital reported 13 dead bodies and 43 injured. OLA Specialist Hospital is treating over 40 victims, while Plateau Specialists Hospital reported 4 dead bodies and 40 injured. Jos University Teaching Hospital received additional casualties, although the exact numbers are still pending.

The state government has taken immediate action to address the crisis. The Commissioner of Health has ordered all major hospitals in Jos to prioritize treatment for the victims, without any documentation or payment. The Jos Metropolitan Development Board has reinforced Executive Order 003, emphasizing adherence to safety standards, and urged schools with similar structural issues to close down for inspections.

This tragic event has highlighted the critical importance of maintaining and enforcing safety standards in educational institutions. The Plateau State Government has stressed that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in building safety to prevent future tragedies.

Questions about the oversight of school buildings and the implementation of safety regulations are emerging as rescue operations continue and the community grapples with the loss of life. This disaster is likely to prompt a broader discussion on infrastructure safety and the measures needed to protect students and teachers across Nigeria.

The incident at Saint Academy serves as a somber call to action for improved building inspections, stricter enforcement of safety codes, and greater investment in educational infrastructure throughout the country. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on rescue efforts and supporting the affected families, while authorities work to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

PunchOnline

Uruguay and Canada Prepare for Copa America 2024 Third-Place Match: Predicted Lineups and Key Players

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Uruguay and Canada are set to clash in the Copa America 2024 third-place match on July 13 at Bank of America Stadium, with both teams looking to end their tournament run on a high note. The match, kicking off at 8 p.m. ET, presents unique challenges for both sides as they grapple with injuries, suspensions, and the disappointment of missing out on the final.

Uruguay, under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa, faces the task of regrouping after a semi-final loss to Colombia. The team’s predicted 4-2-3-1 formation showcases both established stars and players seeking to prove themselves:

Goalkeeper Sergio Rochet, who has only conceded two goals in the tournament, is expected to start. The defense sees the return of Nahitan Nandez from suspension, while injuries force adjustments with Jose Maria Gimenez and Sebastian Caceres likely to form the center-back pairing.

In midfield, the dynamic duo of Federico Valverde and Manuel Ugarte will aim to control the game’s tempo. The attack will be led by Darwin Nunez, who is eager to find his scoring touch after a quiet knockout stage.

Canada, making their first Copa America appearance, have exceeded expectations by reaching this stage. However, Jesse Marsch’s team faces uncertainty regarding the fitness of star player Alphonso Davies, who suffered a leg injury in the semi-finals.

The Canadian lineup, likely in a 4-4-2 formation, will feature Maxime Crepeau in goal. The defense, anchored by Alistair Johnston and Derek Cornelius, may see Kamal Miller step in if Davies is unavailable.

In midfield, Ismael Kone and Stephen Eustaquio will look to disrupt Uruguay’s play, while the attack will rely on Jonathan David and Cyle Larin to break their scoring drought.

This match offers both teams a chance at redemption and a positive end to their Copa America campaigns. For Uruguay, it’s an opportunity to showcase their depth and tactical flexibility under Bielsa. For Canada, it’s a chance to cap off a historic tournament run with a statement performance against a South American powerhouse.

As both teams make final preparations, the focus will be on how they adapt to their respective challenges and which players step up in this high-stakes encounter. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both nations as they look ahead to future international competitions.

Zimbabwean Man Files for Divorce Over Wife’s Alleged Infidelity in Dreams, Sparking Debate

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In a bizarre case that has captivated Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Energy Moyo from the Lobenvale suburb has filed for divorce from his wife of nine years, Angela Dube, citing recurring dreams of her alleged infidelity. This unusual legal proceeding has sparked discussions about the nature of trust in marriages and the legal weight of dreams in divorce cases.

Moyo’s application to the Bulawayo Customary Court details vivid dreams in which he claims to have witnessed his wife romantically involved with a neighbor. Despite lacking concrete evidence of any actual infidelity, Moyo insists that these dreams have irreparably damaged their relationship.

“The marriage relationship between the parties has irretrievably broken down and there are no prospects of restoration of a normal marriage between them,” Moyo stated in his court application, as seen by B-Metro. He further emphasized that these dreams, which began early in their marriage and persisted over the years, have eroded the love, affection, trust, and respect that once defined their relationship.wayo

Adding complexity to the case, Moyo alleges that attempts to discuss these dreams with his wife resulted in verbal and physical abuse. This claimed pattern of behavior, combined with the emotional distress caused by the dreams, has led Moyo to seek not only a divorce but also custody of their two children and an equal division of their household property.

The case has yet to be heard by the Bulawayo Customary Court, leaving legal experts and the public speculating on how the court will handle such an unconventional basis for divorce. This unusual filing raises important questions about the role of subjective experiences in legal proceedings and the boundaries of what constitutes grounds for divorce in Zimbabwe.

As news of this case spreads, it has ignited debates on social media and in local communities about the nature of trust in marriages, the significance of dreams in personal relationships, and the evolving landscape of divorce law in Zimbabwe. Some argue that Moyo’s claims highlight deeper issues of trust and communication within the marriage, while others question the validity of using dreams as grounds for legal action.

Legal experts are watching closely, as the court’s decision could potentially set a precedent for how similar cases might be handled in the future. The outcome may have implications for divorce law in Zimbabwe, potentially influencing how courts weigh subjective experiences against tangible evidence in marital disputes.

As Bulawayo and the wider Zimbabwean community await the court’s response to this unusual case, it serves as a reminder of the complex and often unpredictable nature of human relationships and the legal systems designed to address their dissolution.

Source: mzansijuice.com

CONMEBOL Launches Investigation into Colombia vs Uruguay Copa America 2024 Semifinal Brawl

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The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has initiated an investigation into a violent incident that occurred following the Copa America 2024 semifinal match between Colombia and Uruguay. The altercation, which took place in Charlotte, North Carolina, has cast a shadow over what should have been a celebration of South American football.

The incident unfolded after Colombia secured a 1-0 victory, advancing to the final. Social media videos circulated showing what appeared to be Uruguay players, including high-profile stars Darwin Nunez and Ronald Araujo, climbing into the stands and exchanging blows with Colombian fans. Uruguay’s captain, Jose Maria Gimenez, later claimed that the players were attempting to defend their families.

The confrontation was not limited to the stands. Players and staff from both teams were also involved in an on-field altercation following the final whistle, further escalating tensions.

CONMEBOL’s swift response came in the form of a statement released on Thursday, declaring their commitment to understanding the sequence of events and determining the responsibilities of those involved in the violence. The governing body emphasized its stance against any actions that could tarnish the reputation of the tournament, widely regarded as one of the most prestigious in international football.

“We want to reaffirm and warn that no action will be tolerated that tarnishes this global football celebration,” the CONMEBOL statement read. “It is unacceptable that an incident like this turns passion into violence. Therefore, no behavior that harms the sporting competition will be tolerated.”

This incident raises serious questions about player and fan safety at international tournaments, as well as the security measures in place at venues hosting such high-stakes matches. It also highlights the intense emotions and rivalries that exist in South American football, which, while often celebrated for their passion, can sometimes boil over into unacceptable behavior.

The investigation’s outcome could have significant implications for the players and teams involved. Potential sanctions could range from fines to match suspensions, potentially affecting the upcoming Copa America final and future international competitions.

As the football world awaits the results of CONMEBOL’s investigation, this incident serves as a reminder of the fine line between passion and violence in sports, and the responsibility of players, fans, and governing bodies to maintain the integrity and spirit of the beautiful game.

The Copa America 2024 continues with the final match, where Colombia will face the winner of the other semifinal. However, this unfortunate incident has undoubtedly cast a pall over what should be a celebration of South American football talent and sportsmanship.

Nigerian Court to Begin Trial Against Binance Over Tax Evasion Charges on October 11

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A Nigerian court will commence the trial against cryptocurrency exchange Binance on October 11, over charges of tax evasion, the judge handling the case announced on Friday.

Binance is facing four counts of tax evasion, including failure to register with Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for tax purposes. While similar charges against two of its executives were dropped on June 14, they still face separate money laundering charges, which they both deny.

On Friday, Binance representative Ayodele Omotilewa appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to the four charges before Judge Emeka Nwite. Binance has not issued an immediate comment but has previously stated that the charges should be dismissed.

Nigeria has criticized Binance for its currency woes after cryptocurrency platforms became the preferred choice for trading the Nigerian naira amid the country’s struggle with chronic dollar shortages and a record low currency value.

AT&T Suffers Massive Data Breach: FBI Investigating After 109 Million Customer Records Stolen

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AT&T disclosed on Friday that the company experienced a significant hacking incident in April, resulting in the illegal download of data from approximately 109 million customer accounts. This data breach included records of calls and texts from 2022.

The U.S. telecom giant stated that the FBI is actively investigating the breach, and at least one person has been arrested. The unauthorized access involved AT&T call logs copied from a third-party cloud platform, marking a substantial breach of consumer communication records. This incident follows a recent ransomware attack on UnitedHealth Group’s Optum, which compromised the private data of an estimated one-third of Americans.

The compromised data includes files containing AT&T records of calls and texts for nearly all of AT&T’s cellular and landline customers. These files also include details about interactions with those cellular numbers between May and October 2022. Importantly, the stolen data does not contain the content of calls or texts or personal information such as social security numbers.

In response to the breach, AT&T’s shares dropped 1.2% in early trading. The company delayed the public disclosure of the hack at the request of the Justice Department.

While the FBI has not identified any suspects, it confirmed working with AT&T and the Justice Department collaboratively to enhance their intelligence efforts. This ongoing collaboration aims to bolster the FBI’s investigative capabilities and support AT&T’s incident-response measures.

Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced an ongoing investigation into the breach. AT&T revealed that the compromised data includes records from January 2, 2023, for a small number of customers.

The breach came to light on April 19 when a hacker claimed to have obtained unauthorized access to AT&T call logs. The company confirmed that the compromised data had been accessible between April 4 and 11. AT&T assured customers that the breach did not include personal or financial information but urged vigilance against potential fraud.

Reuters