oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | controversies, government, news, politics, politics and government
The stakeholders from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo Federal Constituency, within Oyo State, are urging Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene due to an ongoing crisis affecting their party locally.
Stakeholders hailing from Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East, and Oyo West local government areas made this plea after convening over the weekend. During their gathering, they emphasized the critical necessity of reviving and restoring the PDP within the federal constituency.
At the conclusion of their gathering, party members released a statement listing “unequal distribution of political positions and roles, actions against the interests of the party, concentration of authority, and disregard for the party charter” as key challenges impeding the party’s development within the constituency.
The statement entitled “Critical Need to Rescue, Revive, and Restore PDP in Oyo Federal Constituency” was endorsed by ex-Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Morufu Atilola; Alhaji Isiaka Adebayo; Alhaji Fatai Obabi; Mr. Wasiu Olaoti; Mr. Tunde Ogunlana, as well as an additional 29 individuals.
As stated in the document, “Every dedicated member of the PDP within the Oyo Federal Constituency has joined forces to rejuvenate and salvage their party from impending ruin caused by authoritarianism, betrayal, biased treatment, deceit, suppression, and public disputes.”
The stakeholders appealed to Governor Makinde, who they referred to as the party’s leader within the state, to “decentralize authority, promote full inclusion, and tackle various challenges impacting the party.”
News Updates Oyo government requests stakeholders’ assistance to combat gender-based violence in educational institutions Rivers state conflict: PDP governors contest Tinubu’s emergency governance before the Supreme Court Oyo reported treating 14,930 tuberculosis cases — Official
They further pushed for acknowledging ex-Speaker Atilola officially as the head of the PDP within the Oyo Federal Constituency, emphasizing that he serves as a “unifying figure” with the capability to advance democratic principles.
As per their view, taking into account their suggestions could contribute to discovering a permanent resolution for the issues faced by the party within the constituency.
They stressed that adopting their suggestions would boost the party’s advancement, cautioning that the present system of indirect leadership has perpetually exacerbated the issues rather than resolving them.
The stakeholders also pointed out concerns like “an imbalance in the distribution of political positions and roles, subversive actions by certain party officials, concentration of authority on one side causing exclusion, defamation, and suppression, along with the ineffectiveness of party structures.”
They also criticized “failure to comply with the party’s constitution and lack of collective discussions and coordination during the previous local government elections.” They further expressed disappointment over “the total absence of information and communication resulting from the consolidation of power within one faction.”
FURTHER READING ON THE LATEST HEADLINES IN NIGERIA’S TRIBUNE
Stay updated with the latest news from Tribune Online in real time! Connect with us on WhatsApp for immediate notifications, special reports, and behind-the-scenes conversations. Subscribe to our WhatsApp channel today!
Tags: makinde Oyo PDP Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | controversies, pakistan, politics, politics and government, politics and law
London [UK]. March 24 (ANI):
MQM
supremo
Altaf Hussain
has firmly denounced the continuing repression in
Balochistan
and demanded an immediate resignation
Pakistan President
Asif Ali Zardari
, Prime Minister
Shehbaz Sharif
, the Governor of
Balochistan
, and the Head Minister of
Balochistan
He asserted that if these leaders retain any trace of human compassion, they ought to resign from their roles, since they have not fulfilled their duty in safeguarding the people’s rights.
Balochistan
.
Hussain stated that innocent Baloch citizens, particularly women and children, are enduring severe brutality. He referred to an incident as evidence.
Quetta
where members of the
Baloch Yakjehti Committee
staged a peaceful protest by carrying the bodies of innocent victims.
Rather than tackling the issues raised by protesters, the security forces employed disproportionate force, leading to the unfortunate fatalities and casualties among civilians, which included a young child aged 12. The head of the committee along with human rights advocates expressed concern over this incident.
Mahrang Baloch
He too was apprehended and forcibly removed in a degrading fashion, intensifying the regional strife even more.
Hussain conveyed his profound grief regarding the situation of the Baloch people and vehemently denounced the government’s conduct. He pondered if it was acceptable for the state to mete out such harsh treatment to peaceful protesters, especially women and children. He posed this as a challenge.
Shehbaz Sharif
and his aunt Maryam Safdar, criticizing their trip to Saudi Arabia for Umrah as their administration keeps oppressing innocent Baloch citizens.
The political leader emphasized the enduring suppression.
Balochistan
He stated that over the past 77 years, the inhabitants of the province have endured military campaigns, bombardments, and the denial of fundamental rights. The speaker cautioned that these grievances might breed bitterness amongst Baloch young people instead of fostering national loyalty.
Hussain highlighted a troubling trend of escalating state aggression during significant national events like August 14 and March 23. He condemned the authorities for ramping up their suppression of Baloch demonstrators shortly preceding Pakistan Day, suggesting that rather than gearing up for patriotic observances, the administration opted to quell peaceful expressions with force.
Altaf implored the residents of Punjab not to stay quiet when confronted with such heinous acts. He pondered how they would react if these wrongdoings were directed at themselves and appealed to the young individuals and all citizens of Punjab to rise up against tyranny.
In addition, the British politician based in the United Kingdom appealed to reporters and media experts to cease disseminating false information aimed at appeasing those in power. He encouraged them to leave their positions if they were unable to report honestly and suggested they establish unbiased channels to expose the actual state of affairs.
Balochistan
.
In lieu of his party, Hussain conveyed support for the Baloch people and extended sympathies over the lives lost. He also called for the swift liberation of those detained.
Mahrang Baloch
And for all the other detained activists, Altaf called upon the nation’s leaders and governmental bodies to renounce violence and participate in discussions aimed at resolving the current crisis.
Balochistan
peacefully. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, controversies, diplomacy and diplomats, international relations, politics
The former South African ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, stated on Sunday that he came back home without any remorse.
After a 32-hour trip from the United States through Qatar, Rasool and his spouse, Rosieda, landed at Cape Town International Airport on Sunday morning. They were greeted warmly by several hundred supporters upon their arrival.
Earlier this month, Rasool was deemed “undesirable” by the United States after making critical comments about President Donald Trump during an online event organized by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, a South African research organization.
Speaking to approximately 300 supporters at the airport, Rasool said that although he was intended to be embarrassed by being called a persona non grata, the enthusiastic welcome transformed this label into an emblem of pride for him.
“When you come back to a community filled with such warmth and an understanding of Ubuntu (the African concept of ‘I exist through others’), then I’ll embrace being unwelcome as a sign of honor… as proof that we’ve made the correct choice,” Rasool stated, conveying his joy at returning to a place “where Ubuntu holds great value.”
Rasool mentioned that even though efforts were made towards traditional diplomacy, South Africa eventually had to adopt what he referred to as the “Ubuntu-style diplomacy.”
“The diplomacy of Ubuntu does not involve deceiving others for your nation’s sake. Instead, it entails telling the truth with kindness. Ubuntu’s diplomacy doesn’t consist of mere flattery towards your hosts nor ignoring what is incorrect. Rather, it involves thoughtful interaction and convincing your host of a superior approach,” he stated.
Rasool wished that President Cyril Ramaphosa could locate an individual competent enough to repair relations with the United States without compromising South Africa’s principles. “We have to strive for this, yet we should maintain our dignity,” he stated.
In response to queries about the failure of diplomatic efforts, he stated that drawing the notice of both President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio led to their declaration of him as persona non grata, indicating that his statement had made an impact at the pinnacle of the United States’ governmental hierarchy.
“They were shocked by our description, and they weren’t pleased about it. Therefore, the diplomatic approach of Ubuntu has clearly been effective since we demonstrated the principles of our community,” Rasool stated.
Rubio declared Rasool’s dismissal via social media, characterizing him as a “politician adept at stirring racial tensions, one who harbors hatred towards both America and its leader.” A deadline of 72 hours was set for Rasool to vacate the United States, and he was labeled “persona non grata,” prohibiting his future representation of South Africa in Washington.
Rasool is anticipated to furnish an extensive report on the issue to Ramaphosa. Last Monday, he reaffirmed that South Africa remains dedicated to interacting with Washington, characterizing the expulsion as a slight obstacle in their diplomatic ties.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | controversies, football clubs, politics, soccer, sports
-
Activist and academic Fred Ogola has responded to claims that he orchestrated the anti-Ruto protests during the Kenya versus Gabon game.
-
Previously, in another video, Ogola encouraged Kenyan supporters to organize a collective demonstration during the match.
-
In an interview with LIFEHACK.co.ke, he insists the focus should be on addressing Kenyans’ economic grievances rather than identifying organisers of the protests
The LIFEHACK.co.ke correspondent Ivan Mboto boasts more than three years of expertise in covering political and contemporary issues within Kenya.
Fred Ogala, an esteemed scholar and advocate, has addressed allegations that he was behind the anti-Ruto protests that shook Nyayo Stadium during the Harambee Stars versus Gabon game on Sunday, March 23rd.
A popular video prior to the match showed Ogola encouraging soccer supporters to participate in a symbolic demonstration. He can be seen directing them to begin their chant at the 6th minute and 25th second of the encounter.
He pointed out that this particular timing held great significance, representing what he called the erosion of Kenya’s newfound independence for those advocating for an inclusive administration following the discussions led by the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO).
“When it reaches the sixth minute, 25th second, start shouting until the stadium gets wild. Why? Because that is the day that our independence after impeaching Parliament was taken by the broad-based government proponents,” he was heard saying.
In comparing it to Spain, Ogola mentioned the custom where Catalans demonstrate their opposition to the Spanish government during El Clásico matches.
He shared that during his five-year stay in Barcelona, every time Real Madrid played against Barcelona, at exactly 17 minutes and 14 seconds into the game, supporters would create a commotion to mark the year 1714 when Catalans lost their autonomy to Spain.
Was Fred Ogola responsible for the anti-Ruto slogans at Nyayo Stadium?
Speaking to
LIFEHACK.co.ke
Ogola refuted assertions that he alone was accountable for the chants, asserting that millions of Kenyans hold comparable views regarding President William Ruto’s leadership.
Regarding the claims that I was one of the organizers behind the chants, allow me to state that numerous individuals, possibly as high as 53 million Kenyans, share this viewpoint. Thus, whether or not I organized them doesn’t really matter. What truly matters is that people believe the president ought to step down,” he stated.
He explained that his purpose was solely to demonstrate how these demonstrations can occur during games, based on his five-year residency in Barcelona.
“I saw people using social forums to express their feelings, and I am happy Kenyans came out in large numbers to do so,” he added.
Ogola likewise downplayed efforts aimed at pinpointing the organizers, encouraging people instead to tackle the urgent economic issues confronting Kenyan citizens.
If they claim it’s about me, then who organized the event in Naivasha?” he questioned. “Instead of focusing on who the organizers are, they should address the core issues at hand. Kenyans face severe economic challenges such as unemployment, excessive taxation, high living costs, and insufficient employment opportunities, yet the president is providing purely political solutions to these problems.
He encouraged Ruto to carefully consider the underlying causes of increasing dissatisfaction among Kenyans.
“If solving the issue isn’t possible, the cries of ‘Ruto must leave’ will persist, regardless of whether I was involved or not. Instead of searching for who did what and who organized what, he should address these concerns,” he stated.
LIFEHACK.co.ke
.
Supporters burst into Nyayo Stadium to watch the Kenya versus Gabon game.
As reported elsewhere, enthusiastic supporters rushed into Nyayo National Stadium, causing damage to one of the entrances before the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier between Kenya and Gabon. Despite drawing large crowds due to its significance, all the tickets were snapped up by Saturday night.
Due to the restricted number of seats, numerous fans who didn’t have tickets tried to enter, leading to pandemonium at the venue. Footage uploaded by reporter Seth Olale depicted throngs pushing their way into the stands.
The match that concluded with a 2-1 loss for the home side was Harambee Stars’ inaugural competitive home game since they beat Rwanda in 2021.
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | controversies, funding, government, healthcare and medicine, news
Letters canceling funding, which abruptly halts millions of rand worth of HIV and TB research grants funded by the U.S. government at South African universities, began circulating over the weekend. One impacted researcher predicts that more than 300 such grants could be terminated by the end of Sunday, potentially leading to significant consequences for higher education and research institutions, including substantial job cuts.
Certain specialists approximate that as high as 70% of South Africa’s medical research, equivalent to between $400 million (approximately R7.2 billion) including both primary and subsidiary grants from the previous fiscal year, receives funding via the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH comprises various components.
27 institutes and centres
Each one concentrates on a particular field of study. The NIH funds roughly seventy-five percent of global biomedical research.
On Friday night, the University of the Witwatersrand’s
Wits Health Consortium
The unit responsible for managing the institution’s clinical trials and donor-funded initiatives has received termination notices for all aspects of a $2.5 million (approximately R460 million) grant, which concludes in November 2027. This particular grant was provided via the NIH.
National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
.
Letters of cancellation, issued on behalf of the chief grants management officer at USAID, Emily Linde, appear to follow a standardized format informing researchers that their projects “fail to contribute to our understanding of living systems, yield minimal returns on investment, and do not improve health outcomes, longevity, or disease reduction.” The letters also allege that these research efforts negatively impact “the well-being of Americans.”
The Wits project was conducted.
by lead researchers Helen Rees, who heads the
Wits Reproductive Health Institute
, with Ian Sanne, leading the Clinical HIV Research Unit, who is now also involved with an international development organization,
Palladium
as its
chief medical officer
.
Paradoxically, our grant concluded on Human Rights Day, a time dedicated to assisting and protecting those in need. Yet now, the U.S. government is compelling us to act contrary to these principles,” Sanne explained to Bhekisisa. “Abruptly halting study volunteer participation could place them in danger. Does this align with global ethical standards for humans?
The study, ongoing since 2007, came under the
The Wits Research Group Clinical Trials Unit,
and carried out research on HIV and TB prevention and treatment, along with clinical trials for hepatitis and HIV-associated cancers.
Letters of termination were received on Human Rights Day
Other grants that have apparently been terminated up until now encompass research initiatives at the
Center for AIDS Research Program in South Africa
, Caprisa,
headed up
By Salim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim.
Several South African universities, which received sub-grants for health research from American institutions like Columbia University in New York, received cease operations directives on Friday following the loss of funding by the U.S.-based grantors. At present, these South African entities wish to remain unnamed.
Science magazine
reports
The ex-leader of the South African Medical Research Council, Glenda Gray was informed that her $3.1 million (approximately R56.5 million) grant for a clinical trials unit in Soweto [operating via Wits] has shifted from an approved to a pending status.
The
Center for AIDS Research Program in South Africa
, Caprisa,
headed up
By Salim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim, who receive substantial funding from the NIH, is currently on high alert. “So far, we haven’t gotten any notifications of terminated NIH grants. However, we anticipate receiving them soon,” Salim Abdool Karim informed Bhekisisa on Sunday morning.
TB funding ends as the US confronts TB outbreaks.
Throughout the years, certain HIV prevention research conducted within Sanne’s and Rees’s initiative has focused on populations more susceptible to HIV infection, including adolescent girls and young women in Africa, transgender individuals, and female sex workers.
The cancellation email mentioned that their “award no longer aligns with agency goals” and noted that “research programs focused mainly on arbitrary and nonscientific criteria, such as vague equity aims, go against genuine scientific exploration, fail to broaden our understanding of living systems, yield minimal benefits from investments, and ultimately do not improve health outcomes, extend lifespan, or decrease illnesses.”
Worst of all, the note said, “so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (“DEI”) studies are often used to support unlawful discrimination on the basis of race and other protected characteristics, which harms the health of Americans. Therefore, it is the policy of NIH not to prioritise such research programmes.
The mentions of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the letter probably pertain to the work conducted at Wits regarding transgender individuals and women involved in sex work—topics that the Trump administration disapproves of.
On the evening of his inauguration, which took place on January 20, the president
signed an executive order
banning people’s right to identify as transgender or non-binary individuals. There are only two genders, the executive order declared: male and female.
However, Sanne argues that the mentions of DEI in their letter are not relevant because even though some of their studies have centered around marginalized communities like transgender individuals and sex workers, much of their efforts are directed towards developing efficient treatments for pediatricTB and improving medications for those suffering from multi-drug resistant TB, along with focusing on preventative measures against TB.
Indeed, our efforts align perfectly with President Trump’s vision of ‘making America great.’ We enhance national safety, fortify economic strength, and boost prosperity by safeguarding Americans from tuberculosis. Furthermore, much of the patent rights and intellectual property for the novel medications we evaluate belong to U.S.-based firms.
Experts weigh in
Linda-Gail Bekner, who leads the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation at the University of Cape Town and also receives support from the NIH, cautions that this further setback to our clinical research sector occurs when new tuberculosis infections are ”
have reached their peak levels in many years within the USA
“.
Kansas is presently experiencing the biggest tuberculosis outbreak that the United States has witnessed in this period.
past 30-40 years
(TB is a condition that has been well-managed in the U.S. for many years.) More than
60TB of data related to disease cases, along with two fatalities, have been reported.
.
By Saturday, Bekker hadn’t gotten a cancellation letter for her grant, yet she states: “Reducing the impact of HIV and TB so they no longer pose a major public health risk is crucial globally. South Africa has taken considerable steps and made important contributions toward achieving this objective.”
Yogan Pillay, who leads HIV and TB initiatives at the Gates Foundation—a organization that also supports HIV andTB research—expresses concern over potential U.S. government funding reductions. He states, “These budget cuts could halt progress in developing new prevention methods and treatments for HIV. As a result, eradicating AIDS may remain an unattainable vision, with HIV continuing to proliferate.”
“It’s absolutely tragic.”
Trump: “No corrective action is possible here”
The Wits initiative conducted significant TB research. One
study
Published in February and featured on the NIH website, this study examined the effectiveness of double doses of the antiretroviral medication dolutegravir in treating tuberculosis patients.
Previous trials looked at
How secure was it for expectant mothers with HIV to use preventative tuberculosis medication?
, regarding the effectiveness of long-acting, injectable formulations of antiretroviral therapy
worked for teens
And how effective the bi-monthly HIV injection is
worked
.
Sanne says “it is inconceivable that [Elon Musk’s so-called] department of government efficiency [which is leading cuts on US government spending], does not understand that there is more than just DEI activities happening through HIV and other research”.
The email stated: “While NIH typically opts for suspension rather than immediate termination of a grant, providing the recipient a chance to implement necessary corrections prior to a potential termination decision, such corrective actions cannot be undertaken in this case.”
This award’s objective is not aligned with our agency’s priorities, and no changes to the project can bring it in line with these priorities.
Terminations not unexpected
However, the termination of the grants was not unforeseen — or at least not since last week.
On March 12,
Science magazine reported
Matthew Memoli, who was serving as the acting director of the NIH, requested officials at the institute to gather lists of grants related to South Africa. The content of this email mirrored the phrasing used in previous NIH inquiries that resulted in the cancellation of numerous grants focusing on areas such as transgender health, vaccine hesitance, and other subjects not endorsed by the administration.
At least
300 US university projects
have also had their grants revoked by the Trump administration, with many being US universities.
resulting in demonstrations throughout the United States
.
These terminations are part of the measures that the Trump administration views as cost-saving efforts or research that doesn’t align with their beliefs, and such actions are expected to keep occurring globally.
SA researchers have initiated discussions with charitable organizations and the government to provide financial support, according to Sanne, who adds that “there haven’t been definite results yet.”
Projects in South Africa that received cancellation notices were informed that they had the option to “contest and submit evidence refuting” their termination decisions.
However, they must initially go through a “first-level grant appeal process” which needs to be completed before they can proceed to “submit an appeal to the departmental appeals board.”
If projects decide to contest, they must file an appeal within 30 days of receiving their termination notices.
Sanne mentions his intention to utilize the appeals process, and if that proves unfruitful, at minimum, seek negotiations for an ethical and responsible termination of the trials. He elaborates: “Our research is crucial for saving lives, and the NIH has supported us in this endeavor. What we must now strive to achieve is convincing them of our work’s significance instead of ending decades of investment which could lead to lost lives.”
The Gates Foundation is referenced in this piece. Although Bhekisisa receives financial support from the Foundation, it maintains its independence in editorial matters.
This narrative was created by the
Bhekisisa Center for Health Journalism
. Register for the
newsletter
.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | controversies, government, news, politics and government, society
Shimla (
Himachal Pradesh
), [India], March 24 (ANI): Recently,
circular
issued by a private
school
in the state capital, Shimla, has sparked controversy, with allegations that it was intended to create communal discord. However,
Education Minister
Rohit Thakur
has refuted these claims, emphasizing that the issue is being unnecessarily escalated to disturb social harmony.
Speaking to ANI, Minister Thakur said, “This issue is being exaggerated only to provoke communal sentiments. The matter will be investigated. However, the message from the
school
administration was issued solely with the intent of maintaining communal harmony.”
He further stressed the need to verify the facts before jumping to conclusions, noting that the
school
The issue at hand enjoys a well-established reputation. “Just today, I learned about this from media reports. We will verify the specifics, as the
school
being named is a well-established, reputed convent institution here.
Himachal Pradesh
“Communal harmony and goodwill are paramount here, and we will work tirelessly to maintain this atmosphere,” Thakur asserted.
Thakur highlighted the impact of social media in exacerbating these problems and warned about individuals who intentionally foster division within society.
“Some people in our community try to instigate divisions without cause. Such issues need to be resolved promptly. I have collected details regarding the whole situation since, in this age of social media, these problems can quickly spiral out of control. We support enhancing solidarity among communities. It’s crucial that our societal structure remains cohesive and inclusive of all faiths. This is what we aim to preserve,” he stated.
In reaction to the accusations, the
school
at the heart of the dispute,
Auckland House School
has issued a strong statement refuting the claims and calling for responsible digital conduct. The
school
highlighted its enduring custom of commemorating cultural and religious festivities, noting the
circular
It was meant for the junior class to celebrate.
Eid
On March 2nd, please ensure you wear a small cap and Kurta Pajama as per the dress code for the event.
We have observed that some people have shared untrue, deceptive, and socially provocative statements about our organization on various social media channels.
Auckland House School
has consistently marked cultural and religious events like Holi,
Eid
, Diwali, Gurpurab, and Christmas, not as a religious mandate but as a tribute to the pluralistic spirit of India. Our aim is to foster empathy, understanding, and respect among children from all backgrounds. Participation is always voluntary, and there is no religious ritual or instruction involved.”
Critiquing the misrepresentation of information, the
school
A subsequent media release declared, “We firmly denounce efforts to portray these festivities as religious indoctrination. These maneuvers solely contribute to disrupting communal peace and misleading society. We are especially troubled that some postings have exposed data intended exclusively for private distribution, thus infringing upon confidentiality, posing risks to people’s safety, and contravening ethical standards of online behavior. This activity represents an abuse of confidential details.”
The
school
administration called for the removal of misleading content from social media and urged the public to act responsibly.
We kindly ask everyone and various platforms to promptly take down these postings and cease actions that jeopardize both organizational and personal security.
Auckland House School
is steadfastly dedicated to the principles outlined in the Constitution and the vision of unity in diversity. It also urged all conscientious individuals within society to oppose such divisive and immoral acts, and to endorse an educational system founded on mutual respect, dignity, and honesty,” the statement continued.
This dispute underscores the increasing worry about misinformation spreading through social media platforms and its ability to disturb societal peace. As the state government investigates this issue, authorities aim to safeguard the principles of inclusion and communal cohesion. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
