Guinea-Bissau's Fake Coup?

Fake Coup? For Guinea-Bissau’s Voters, Only Time Will Tell Guinea-Bissau On Nov. 26, a coup rocked Guinea-Bissau. It was the latest in a string of nine attempted or successful military takeovers in the small West African nation of two million people. Yet some observers are skeptical about why the event took place in the former Portuguese colony, or if it was even a coup at all. “It is still too early to know the true intentions of Guinea-Bissau’s putschists,” wrote the Economist. As the BBC reported, army officers arrested President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. Afterward, they gave an address on state television announcing how they were now in control. But they also suggested that they plotted to take over because “unnamed politicians” who had ”the support of a well-known drug baron” were attempting to “destabilize” the country. Guinea-Bissau has become a hub for cocaine trafficking in the past 20 years. As the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime explained, the country arguably is Africa’s first narco-state. The military junta leader, Gen. Horta Inta-A, has vowed to crack down on the drugs and the corruption that the drug trade fosters, according to Bloomberg Television. Meanwhile, opposition leaders immediately questioned whether Embaló was behind the so-called coup, the New York Times wrote. They speculated that the president might have put the general in power in order to freeze electoral politics, leaving the current government in place, where Embaló might run things from behind the scenes. Nigeria’s former president said he believes the ousting of Guinea-Bissau’s president was staged. Goodluck Jonathan, who led a team of election observers from the West African Elders Forum to Guinea-Bissau, said the incident “was not a coup,” and noted how it was Embaló who first announced his own overthrow, an unusual move. Embaló had called France 24 and said: “I have been deposed.” Plenty of developments support this view. The coup took place a day before the results of the Nov. 23 presidential vote were expected to be announced. Guinea-Bissauan election officials said the junta took the ballots, confiscated computers, and destroyed other materials related to the elections, rendering the ballot moot, reported Al Jazeera. Inta-A vowed to transition to a new government in a year. In the meantime, he appointed a new cabinet of politicians and officials linked to Embaló. Also, among the military junta’s first acts was arresting Domingos Simões Pereira, an opposition leader who had been barred from running for office. Pereira is now closely allied with Fernando Dias, the opposition presidential candidate who threatened to unseat Embaló in the Nov. 23 election. Dias has since sought asylum in the Nigerian embassy in the capital of Bissau, added Africa News. Embaló is now in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, noted Reuters. It wasn’t clear what his plans are or whether he might be invited back. Regardless, analyst Ryan Cummings of Signal Risk consultancy in South Africa told Al Jazeera that Embaló’s past moves support claims of a sham coup that could see him reinstated by the military government. But, he added, it is also “highly plausible” that the military acted alone to avoid a deadlock in a country where about 70 percent of the 2.2 million population is poor. “There have been growing concerns that longstanding disputes between Embaló and (the opposition) had forced Guinea-Bissau into a political deadlock which has been detrimental to the socioeconomic trajectory of the country,” he said. Reaction among voters, however, has been mixed, with some praising the army and hoping for an orderly transition and others criticizing coup leaders. “I am not against the military regime as long as they improve the living conditions in the country,” Suncar Gassama told the BBC, while another voter, Mohamed Sylla, said he was unhappy about the situation: “This doesn’t help anyone because it puts the country into chaos.”

Rebels Push Into Strategic Eastern Congolese City

Rebels Push Into Strategic Eastern Congolese City, Threatening US-Brokered Peace Deal Democratic Republic of the Congo / Rwanda Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advanced into the strategic eastern Congolese city of Uvira on Wednesday, threatening to upend a recent US-brokered peace agreement and marking a major escalation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) long-running conflict, Al Jazeera reported. The militia pushed into the city this week as part of a new offensive, with the United Nations saying around 200,000 people were displaced and scores of civilians have been killed in recent days, reported Reuters. The rebel coalition that includes M23 claimed the city had been “liberated,” while Burundian officials countered that Uvira “has not yet fallen.” Uvira, located in the South Kivu province near the border with Burundi, has served as the headquarters of the Congo-appointed government and its regional military base after the provincial capital, Bukavu, fell to M23 earlier this year. Observers warned that its capture would open the way for M23 to expand its control beyond South Kivu. The surge in fighting comes less than a week after Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame signed a peace deal in Washington, DC that would require Rwanda to halt support for armed groups. But both countries have accused each other of violating the agreement, with Kinshasa urging Washington to expand sanctions targeting Rwandan officials to “restore the credibility” of the mediation effort. Rwanda has denied backing M23 and blamed Congolese forces for attacks that preceded the new clashes. It has also accused Burundi of escalating hostilities, claiming it has deployed up to 20,000 troops in South Kivu “in the service of the government of DRC.” The Burundian government has not responded to the allegations. Meanwhile, the International Contact Group for the Great Lakes – an informal monitoring group that includes the US and the European Union – said the renewed M23 offensive “has a destabilizing potential for the whole region.” Amid the ongoing fighting, the DRC government has been negotiating separately with the armed groups in Qatar. Last month, the two sides signed a framework agreement aimed at ending violence in the resource-rich east. Despite the escalation, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa reiterated support for Qatari-led negotiations, saying there was “no other solution” than returning to the table.

ICC Sentences Sudan Militia To @0 Years For Atrocities In Dafur

ICC Sentences Sudan Militia Leader to 20 Years for Atrocities in Darfur Darfur / Sudan The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Tuesday in a landmark case sentenced a Janjaweed militia leader to 20 years in jail for atrocities committed over two decades ago in Sudan’s Darfur region, Anadolu Agency reported. Ali Muhammad Ali Abd al-Rahman, known as Ali Kushayb, was found guilty in October on 27 counts of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Darfur, Sudan, between August 2003 and April 2004. The counts include torture, rape, and murder. Kushayb, 76, had originally argued that the charges were a case of mistaken identity, but the court rejected his defense, the BBC added. “(Abd al-Rahman) not only gave the orders which led directly to the crimes but … also personally perpetrated some of them,” presiding Judge Joanna Korner told the court. Kushayb was a key leader of the Janjaweed, a government-backed militia that terrorized the Darfur region and killed hundreds of thousands of people two decades ago. The court noted that it would have imposed a tougher sentence if not for certain mitigating factors, such as his age and his voluntary surrender. The time Kushayb spent in detention since surrendering in June 2020 will be deducted from his term. However, the court emphasized that it only gave these elements “limited weight” in selecting the appropriate sentence. The sentence represents a historic moment for the ICC, as he is the first person to be tried for crimes perpetrated in Sudan. There are still outstanding warrants for other Sudanese officials. The 2003-2020 conflict in Darfur erupted after the then-government of Sudan mobilized the mostly Arab Janjaweed militias to stop an armed revolt by rebels from Black African ethnic groups, who accused the state of marginalizing them. Human rights groups have alleged that the violence that followed amounted to genocide and ethnic cleansing against the non-Arabic population in the region. Darfur is currently a battleground for the civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces – the latter originating from the Janjaweed. According to the United Nations, the conflict has created the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

Nigeria Secures The Release Of 100 Abducted School Children

Nigeria Secures Release of 100 Abducted Schoolchildren Nigeria Nigerian authorities secured the release of 100 schoolchildren who were abducted from a Catholic school in central Nigeria last month in one of the country’s worst mass kidnappings in its history, Reuters reported. According to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), 303 students and 12 staff were kidnapped on Nov. 21 from St Mary’s Catholic school in Papiri. While 50 students escaped within hours, the whereabouts of the other children and staff members remained unknown. The president’s national security advisor said it was not clear when the children would be reunited with their families, while Bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, in charge of the school, said he thinks authorities need time to process the students and provide support before organizing a formal handover, the BBC noted. The kidnapping at St Mary’s Catholic school was the latest incident in a wave of mass abductions that has been sweeping the West African country, where schools and places of worship have been increasingly targeted. Days before the St Mary’s attack, two people were killed and 38 abducted in an assault on the Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara state. A day before that, two people died, and 25 Muslim students were abducted from a girls’ secondary school in Kebbi state. All those kidnapped in those two instances have since been released. While it is unclear who is behind these abductions, analysts think they were carried out by criminal gangs looking for ransom payments. Meanwhile, a presidential spokesman previously told the BBC that the state thinks jihadist groups are responsible for the attacks. And even though paying ransom has been outlawed in the country in an effort to curb funding for kidnap gangs, it is widely believed that the money is still often paid. Nigeria’s security crisis gained international attention after US President Donald Trump threatened to cut off aid and send the military into Nigeria “guns-a-blazing” if the government does not halt what he described as “the killing of Christians.” Analysts, however, argue that members of all faiths in Nigeria are targeted by this violence indiscriminately.

Mali-Jihadists Make Gains

Mali Is ‘On Edge’ as Jihadists Make Gains Mali Islamic militants affiliated with the terrorist group al Qaeda are making significant gains in their attempt to seize the Malian capital of Bamako. Called Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, or JNIM, the militants have surrounded much of the city, already extracting taxes from residents of areas they control. They have pledged to inaugurate a harsh, orthodox version of their religion if they win control of the landlocked country in West Africa, reported France 24. “Bamako is on edge,” the French broadcaster said. Having cut its ties with France, the country’s former colonial power, as well as the Economic Community of West African States, the leaders of Mali’s military junta have sought help from Niger and Russia, who have sent fuel and soldiers to protect tanker convoys that JNIM militants attack, wrote Africanews. Russian influence is especially growing in the region, noted the Robert Lansing Institute. As a result, years after the US invaded Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraqi forces reclaimed territory formerly held by the Islamic State in 2017, jihadists are on the brink of taking over Mali. JNIM’s fuel blockage strategy has proved particularly effective in showing the junta’s powerlessness to protect its people, contended the Soufan Center, a non-profit research organization. The fuel blockade has disrupted industry, closed schools, spiked prices, and led to long lines at the pumps. Mali has suffered military coups in 2012, 2020, and 2021. The last one four years ago that brought the current government to power occurred because coup leaders said the prior government was ineffective at dealing with the security situation. In July, Malian lawmakers gave Gen. Assimi Goïta a five-year presidential term. His term is renewable without elections, the BBC added. That broke another junta promise to return quickly to civilian rule. Instead, Goïta has sought to assert his authority, far and wide. He reached a deal, for instance, with Canada-based Barrick Mining over a dispute over a gold mine the Malian leader said was only benefiting the extraction company, Business Insider Africa reported. The company will pay Mali $430 million, while the company will be able to keep pulling the precious metal out of the ground. Goïta has launched Operation Fuka Kènè, “clearing” in the local Bambara language, to stop the JNIM militants, but its progress has been slow, according to the Africa Report. On Nov. 18, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres told the UN Security Council that, if Mali falls, “a disastrous domino effect” could unfurl across the region as other jihadist groups, for example in Niger and Burkina Faso, become more emboldened, the Atlantic Council noted. JNIM’s pressure in recent months appears to be taking its toll on the government. This summer, the junta arrested as many as 50 officers, including two generals, for destabilizing “institutions of the republic.” Goïta also blamed foreign interference: A French national caught in the roundup allegedly was working “on behalf of the French intelligence service” to destabilize the country. But analysts say the country is already deeply destabilized and will likely see more turmoil, particularly for Goïta, whose coalition of support is still strong but faltering. “These tensions are unfolding against a backdrop of growing isolation for the ruling figures in the military and continued setbacks against JNIM’s jihadists,” wrote World Politics Review. “Years after taking control in the 2020 coup, the junta has failed to fulfill its central promise of restoring security. Instead, the situation has only worsened, with JNIM gaining ground even in the country’s heretofore largely peaceful south, around Bamako. (With) a general deterioration in security and economic conditions, it is unclear how long the junta can maintain this popular support.”

Cape Town's 5 Most Beautiful Beaches

Where to swim: Cape Town’s top Blue Flag beaches this summer Looking for the ultimate Cape Town beach-cation this summer? Here are five top-rated Blue Flag beaches you have to visit in the city… By Sundeeka Mungroo 19-11-25 15:09 in Cape Town blue flag beaches cape town Camps Bay Beach. Image: canva Cape Town’s coastline is stacked with choices, but its Blue Flag beaches stand out for consistent water quality, safety, and environmental management. With the holiday season around the corner, these five spots are among the best places to swim, relax, and enjoy the city’s peak summer weather. Take a look… 1. Camps Bay Beach blue flag beaches cape town Camps Bay Beach. Image: canva Camps Bay remains one of Cape Town’s most photographed coastal stretches. The beach offers wide sands, lifeguards during peak hours, and easy access to restaurants and cafés along the strip. The Atlantic water is crisp, the sunsets are bold, and the mountain backdrop gives the beach its signature look. Expect crowds, but the space is generous enough to stretch out. 2. Clifton 4th Beach, Clifton, Cape Town Clifton Beach, Cape Town. Image: canva Clifton 4th is the jewel of the Clifton series and consistently earns Blue Flag status for its clean water and strong safety record. Sheltered from the wind by surrounding granite boulders, it’s one of the few Atlantic beaches where you can spend an entire afternoon without battling the south-easter. Pack light, though. The steps are steep. 3. Muizenberg Beach blue flag beaches cape town Muizenberg Beach. Image: canva On the False Bay side, Muizenberg offers warmer water and a laid-back surf culture. Known for its gentle waves and colourful beach huts, it remains Cape Town’s most accessible spot for beginner surfers. Lifeguards are visible throughout the season, and the long shoreline gives swimmers plenty of space. Families tend to stay here for good reason. 4. Llandudno Beach Aerial view of Llandudno Beach. Image: canva Llandudno doesn’t have commercial development, which is part of its draw. Tucked between mountain slopes and large boulders, the beach stays pristine and quiet even when busy. The water is cold, but the scenery makes up for it. Strong waves make it a favourite for bodyboarders and experienced surfers, with seasonal lifeguards keeping watch. 5. Bikini Beach, Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town blue flag beaches cape town Bikini Beach, Gordon’s Bay. Image: canva This small, protected beach often delivers some of the warmest summer water in the region. Bikini Beach faces west into False Bay, giving it calmer surf and a more intimate atmosphere than Cape Town’s larger beaches. It’s a reliable choice for wind-free afternoons. Why Blue Flag matters Blue Flag status is given to beaches that meet strict standards for cleanliness, safety, lifeguard presence, environmental education, and water quality, and this year, Cape Town was awarded eight flags! The program helps holidaymakers identify beaches that are monitored and well managed throughout the season. Cape Town continues to rank among South Africa’s top coastal destinations, and these five Blue Flag beaches are easy proof. Whether you want waves, warm water, or a scenic sunset spot, each of these shores offers something worth the trip.

African President Arrested in Military Coup

African president arrested in military coup as generals announce 'we have total control' By Allison Bloom, 23 hours ago Alfonso Ribeiro throws an annual Friendsgiving for the entire Dancing with the Stars cast and their dance partners, with attendees like Jenn Tran joining last year. Speaking to US Weekly, he explained, "We invite all of the Dancing With the Stars dancers that don't have homes to go to, that [don't have] family that live here. We have them over and say, 'Come on, let's all get together and share this wonderful holiday.'" A coup is actively transpiring in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. Military officers appeared on television to say they have claimed "total control" of the country. Nov. 26th is a date that will go down in Guinea-Bissau's history books. The scene began this morning when shots were fired outside the Presidential Palace in Bissau, where the election commission headquarters are located. Hundreds of civilians fled as armed officers seized the government complex and detained President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. All borders have reportedly been closed. The takeover comes just three days after a highly contested presidential election. Key Virginia congressional races that could determine control of house 200 Kenyans recruited by Russia to fight on Ukraine frontlines Both Embaló, the incumbent, and opposition candidate Fernando Dias prematurely declared victory, raising fears of a repeat of the 2019 electoral crisis, when competing claims sent the country into four months of political chaos. A coup takes place in Guinea-Bissau on Nov. 26 Alfonso Ribeiro throws an annual Friendsgiving for the entire Dancing with the Stars cast and their dance partners, with attendees like Jenn Tran joining last year. Speaking to US Weekly, he explained, "We invite all of the Dancing With the Stars dancers that don't have homes to go to, that [don't have] family that live here. We have them over and say, 'Come on, let's all get together and share this wonderful holiday.'" Brigadier General Denis N'Canha spoke on national television on behalf of the military's high command, announcing their grievances and intentions. "The High Military Command for the reestablishment of national and public order decides to immediately depose the President of the Republic, to suspend, until new orders, all institutions of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau," said N'Canha. He claimed the intervention was prompted by a destabilization plot orchestrated by "certain national politicians" and "well-known national and foreign drug barons" seeking to commit election fraud. He claimed that "domestic and foreign nationals" attempted to "manipulate electoral results to implement this plan." A soldier holds his weapon while patrolling a street near the scene of gunfire Alfonso Ribeiro throws an annual Friendsgiving for the entire Dancing with the Stars cast and their dance partners, with attendees like Jenn Tran joining last year. Speaking to US Weekly, he explained, "We invite all of the Dancing With the Stars dancers that don't have homes to go to, that [don't have] family that live here. We have them over and say, 'Come on, let's all get together and share this wonderful holiday.'" Guinea-Bissau has a long history of instability. The UN identified Guinea-Bissau as a "narco state" in 2008 because of its role in the global cocaine trade. Located between Senegal and Guinea, its geography has made it the perfect drop-off point for Colombian drug cartels. Additionally, according to the World Bank, the average yearly income in 2024 in the country of 2.2 million was just $963, making it one of the poorest nations in the world. Just days earlier, leading up to the election, political analyst Augusto Nansambe said that, "The democracy we knew ... is no longer the model we are experiencing; we are experiencing a model defined by a single person." This election was said to be one of the most contentious votes in recent history because of the exclusion of the main opposition party. President Umaro Sissoco Embalo