Moroccan Lawyers End Strikes After Government Withdraws Cautious Reform Bill

Moroccan Lawyers End Strikes After Government Withdraws Contentious Reform Bill MOROCCO Morocco Moroccan lawyers ended a weekslong nationwide strike this week after the government suspended a draft law regulating the legal profession that critics said would undermine lawyers’ independence, Agence France-Presse reported. The Association of Moroccan Bars (ABAM) said Monday that the breakthrough came after Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch pledged to “personally take charge” of the bill in cooperation with the association by “putting in place a mixed commission” of officials and legal practitioners to initiate dialogue. The government has decided not to forward the draft to parliament for a vote until the committee completes its review. The strike began on Jan. 7, a day before the government approved the bill, which was aimed at modernizing the sector and strengthening anti-corruption safeguards. Lawyers said the bill would limit their profession’s constitutional role in the justice system and demanded to be part of the drafting process. One key point of contention was a provision granting courts direct disciplinary power over lawyers, a function traditionally handled internally by bar associations. The draft also proposed new requirements to study law, including a master’s degree in legal sciences, an entrance exam to a training institute, and an age limit of between 22 and 40, the Rabat-based Morocco World News reported. Lawyers have questioned whether these conditions balance merit and equal opportunity. Others also voiced concern over the new administrative obligations and oversight mechanisms that lawyers said could affect professional autonomy. Morocco’s Ministry of Justice countered that the draft law was necessary to update legal frameworks that govern lawyers and strengthen the quality of legal services. Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi insisted that “the legal profession needs change.” However, Ouahbi, who initiated the bill, told parliament earlier this month he was “ready to drop, modify or reform anything that harms lawyers.”

Central Africa Republic's Election Underscores Wobbly Stability

Central African Republic’s Election Underscores a Wobbly Stability CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC Central African Republic Recently, the top US adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos, was invited to visit the Central African Republic for talks on military and diplomatic partnerships as well as investment opportunities, particularly in the mining sector. The Central African Republic has significant reserves of untapped but critical minerals that include diamonds, gold, uranium and rare earth elements, which have long interested Russia, China, the US and others. Beyond wanting to dislodge Chinese and Russian influence, analysts say US interest also reflects growing stability in the Central African Republic since 2021, when rebel militias nearly captured the capital, Bangui. The country also held a successful and relatively violence-free election in December, they add. Even so, some are questioning whether the progress the country has made is sustainable. “For many residents (…), the ballot carried the promise of normalcy, or at least continuity, in a region long starved of both,” the UN wrote. “That promise, however, remains elusive.” Since gaining independence from France in 1960, the Central African Republic, one of the poorest countries in the world, has experienced decades of violence and instability, including six coups. In 2013, the country saw an explosion of fighting when predominantly Muslim Séléka rebels seized power, taking over Bangui and ousting President François Bozizé. Christian Anti-balaka militias fought back, with mobs burning mosques and killing Muslims by decapitating and dismembering them. The violence went on sporadically, intensifying and spreading in 2018 after a period of relative calm as armed groups battled over areas rich in gold, diamonds, uranium and other minerals. Thousands died in the fighting, with hundreds of thousands displaced by the conflict in the country of about 5 million. Soon after, President Faustin-Archange Touadera hired Russian mercenaries from the Kremlin-linked Wagner Group, who prevented those groups from taking control of Bangui in 2021 – after six of 14 armed groups vying for control withdrew from a 2019 peace agreement. Since then, the Russian mercenaries have served as personal bodyguards for Touadera, playing a key role in propping him up in the guise of helping him defeat rebel groups: The group reportedly wrote the text of the constitutional referendum that removed term limits, which would allow the president to remain in power indefinitely, Le Monde reported. It also helped him win the referendum with 95 percent of the vote, aided by a Russian disinformation campaign, the French publication added. Still, the elections held late last year were a major accomplishment and a sign of stability, analysts say. Voters cast their ballots for candidates running for presidential, legislative, regional and municipal offices. Touadera won a third term in a landslide, garnering 78 percent of the vote. However, it was not a vote to be held up as a model of democracy, said critics, who complained the election was marked by fraud and meddling, reported the Associated Press. Election authorities rejected the opposition’s appeals. The Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution, the main opposition party, boycotted the vote, added Al Jazeera. Meanwhile, as the capital remains relatively peaceful, guarded by a mix of Russian mercenaries and UN peacekeepers, violence continues to spread across the country, fueled by rebels, government forces and other militants, wrote Human Rights Watch. Abduction, the forcible recruitment of children as soldiers, sexual violence and attacks against civilians are still rampant. The proximity of the civil war in neighboring Sudan has also concerned aid officials, who worry that fighting might spill over the border or that Sudanese migrants fleeing war might destabilize the country further. “There is no fence, no physical barrier marking the end of one country and the beginning of the other – just a dried-up riverbed spanning the invisible line drawn on maps,” said UN officials. Already thousands of refugees are making their way to a “fractured country still piecing itself back together,” they added. For example, Birao, a northern town on the border with Sudan, now hosts more than 27,000 Sudanese refugees – an overwhelming number for a community of about 18,000, UN officials say. There, tensions have occasionally flared between refugees and local residents. More recently, a militia that the Wagner Group recruited, trained and armed to fight rebels and Fulani pastoralists – largely Muslim nomadic cattle herders – turned against the government. Separately, fighting has flared in the remote southeastern Haut-Mbomou area since late December between government forces backed by Russian mercenaries and the Azandé Ani Kpi Gbè militia, a community self-defense force from the Azandé ethnic group. The unrest comes as Russia seeks to replace the Wagner Group with its Africa Corps, which would assume a training role only, a shift that would cost the country a fortune – it currently pays with minerals – and could jeopardize the president and the government’s hold on power. Fulbert Ngodji, an analyst at the International Crisis Group, told World Politics Review that the progress is mainly that no province is currently controlled by armed groups. But he added that this is a mixed blessing, while noting that it is unclear whether the situation will remain stable. “These (armed) groups, which live off violence through looting or mining exploitation, have not genuinely disarmed and continue to pose a threat,” he said. “In some regions, the army has become the main source of insecurity (and violence).”

South Africa: Some Afrikaner Refugees Are Suffering In the US

Cold, hungry and living in squalor: Afrikaner refugees ‘struggling’ in US Grass isn’t greener? A bombshell report revealed the struggles of some Afrikaner refugees who left South Africa for the US… Author picture By Megan van den Heever 13-02-26 20:23 in Lifestyle afrikaner refugees us 7 Some Afrikaner refugees in the US are living in dire conditions. Image via Canva A bombshell report by an independent US publication claims that some refugees – predominantly Afrikaners – left South Africa to face even worse conditions in their adoptive countries. This comes a year after US President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order prioritising refugee resettlement for predominantly white South Africans through the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) The president claimed that the minority faced “unjust racial discrimination”, labelling transformative legislation as “persecution”. SA authorities have since accused Trump of “spreading misinformation” about the country. ADVERTISEMENT To date, close to 2000 South Africans have departed the country on the programme. AFRIKANER REFUGEES ‘STRUGGLING’ IN THE US – REPORT According to the US publication, The Free Press, an investigation revealed that some Afrikaner refugees were living in poor conditions. An investigative journalist spoke to ten South Africans, who bemoaned being placed in mouldy, dirty motels and apartments infested with cockroaches, and living amongst drug addicts and criminals. Many claimed to have little to no food, eating just one meal a day to survive. Others lived in freezing temperatures, without warm coats, and had to travel long distances in the snow to their nearest grocery store. Some complained about the high cost of living, adding that much of their earnings went towards rent. Speaking anonymously to protect their identities, here is what a few had to say… “We come from a place where you have to grow a set of eyes on the back of your head. Only to move to another unsafe place and be told by the locals you’re now in harm’s way.” ADVERTISEMENT “I understand I am a refugee, and I am very grateful. But I can’t, in my right mind, pay to live with cockroaches.” “We did not have blankets, towels, beds, or any basic necessities. We only had our bags from South Africa and the clothes on our backs”. The publication spoke to a social worker, Amanda Emery, who had spent hundreds of dollars out of her own pocket to help refugees get on their feet. She said: “I gave them air mattresses and pillows, because their beds weren’t appropriate. I’ve taken them to the ministry to get clothing. I feel like they’re being neglected, and the agency is setting them up for failure.” Also speaking to the publication was NGO, The US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI), which claimed it was “focused on supporting economic self-sufficiency and social integration, ensuring newcomers can build stable lives within their new communities. US intel expert Chris Wyatt has responded to the report, accusing many refugee assistance agencies of maladministration. WHAT ARE THEY ENTITLED TO? Under the refugee resettlement programme, South Africans receive federal resettlement support, which covers accommodation placement, short-term Medicaid, and their children are placed in local schools. Families receive a small stipend based on their needs. Assistance agencies contracted to the government are paid to provide food, clothing, and housing supplies. They also offer support in skills assessment, job preparation, and integration into US communities. 7 comments WIN R2 000: Take The South African’s SASSA Survey Tags: afrikaner refugee Donald Trump Featured Important Post navigation Next Article Previous Coloured Afrikaner ‘refugees’ in US speak out: ‘We’re tired of lies’ Discover ‘Shame on you!’: ‘Wife’ of arrested Afrikaner in US speaks out Discover Health Insights Magazine Shoulder Pain is Not From Sleeping Wrong. 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Cape Town: Hidden Nature And Outdoor Escapes

Hidden nature and outdoor escapes in Cape Town Beyond Cape Town’s famous beaches and landmarks lies a quieter side of the city, one shaped by hidden trails and overlooked green spaces. By Nadine Burger 30-01-26 12:53 in Cape Town Beach in Langebaan 0 A beach in Langebaan. Image: Instagram/nadine_burg_ Cape Town is often celebrated for its iconic attractions, but many of its most meaningful outdoor experiences happen far from busy tourist routes. Tucked between suburbs, mountains, and coastline are natural spaces that reward curiosity and a slower pace. These places are not always marked on itineraries, yet they form part of everyday life for many locals. What makes these outdoor escapes special is their sense of calm. They allow people to experience Cape Town’s biodiversity without queues, noise, or pressure to capture the perfect photo. From quiet forest paths to peaceful stretches of coastline, these spaces offer room to breathe. Exploring hidden nature also changes how the city feels. Instead of rushing between landmarks, you begin to notice details, the sound of birds, the smell of fynbos, the rhythm of the ocean. It’s a reminder that Cape Town’s beauty isn’t only found in famous views, but in moments of stillness. The Pipe Track Running along the slopes of Table Mountain, the Pipe Track is a relatively flat walking route with sweeping views of the Atlantic Seaboard. It’s ideal for sunset walks and attracts far fewer crowds than summit hikes. Route details are available via South African National Parks. Cecilia Forest On the eastern side of the mountain, Cecilia Forest offers shaded trails, streams, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for weekend walks and picnics, especially on hot summer days. Hidden Tidal Pools Along the Coast Beyond popular swimming spots, quieter tidal pools exist along the False Bay coastline. Areas near St James and Kalk Bay offer calmer waters and fewer visitors. There are many trails where one can enjoy, Especially lovely coastal runs. View this post on Instagram

Cape Town's Water Wake Up Call

When the dams couldn’t hold: Cape Town’s water wake-up call A dam disaster is never only about water levels. In Cape Town, overflowing dams became a warning about climate extremes. By Nadine Burger 11-02-26 09:24 in Cape Town Theewaterskloof dam 8 Theewaterskloof dam. Image: Instagram/guypalmer96 Cape Town’s water story has swung between scarcity and surplus. After years of drought that reshaped daily habits, periods of intense rainfall pushed several dams close to capacity in a short time. Rapid inflows increased pressure on dam walls and forced authorities to implement controlled water releases to protect structural safety. These releases, while necessary, led to flooding along river systems and affected communities downstream. The consequences were felt most strongly in low-lying areas. Homes were damaged, roads washed away, and basic services disrupted. The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management centre, coordinated evacuations and emergency responses, but the event highlighted how quickly extreme weather can overwhelm urban systems when rainfall exceeds historical norms. The disaster also shifted the public conversation around water management. Dams are no longer only symbols of security after drought; they have become potential risk points during heavy rainfall. With climate variability increasing, Cape Town must now plan for both water shortages and sudden excess at the same time. Infrastructure Under Pressure Much of the Western Cape’s water infrastructure was designed decades ago, based on rainfall patterns that are no longer reliable. As dam levels rise rapidly, engineers are often left with limited options beyond releasing water to prevent structural damage. Communities on the Front Line Communities living near rivers and dam catchments face the greatest risk during flooding events. Informal settlements and older suburbs are particularly vulnerable due to their location and limited drainage systems. Humanitarian organisations such as Gift of the Givers, provided relief to affected families, underlining how disasters quickly become humanitarian crises when homes and livelihoods are lost. Lessons for the Future The dam disaster reinforced the need for better urban planning, improved early warning systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure. On a personal level, it was a reminder that water security is fragile, and that living in Cape Town means learning to respect both the absence and the force of water.

Zimbabwe : President Managawa's Term Extended to 2030

Zimbabwe Moves to Extend President Mnangagwa’s Term to 2030 ZIMBABWE Zimbabwe The Zimbabwean government this week approved a draft law to extend the presidential term, a move critics say would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030, Al Jazeera reported Wednesday. The ruling Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) on Tuesday presented the cabinet with the proposal to a ... [Message clipped] View entire message

Kenya: Raises Concerns With Russia Over Citizens Recruited To Fight In Ukraine

Kenya to Raise Concerns with Russia Over Citizens Recruited to Fight in Ukraine KENYA Kenya Kenya this week said it plans to seek answers from Russia about its citizens being recruited to fight for Moscow in Ukraine, adding that an estimated 200 nationals had been enlisted, many under false pretenses, the BBC reported. Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi described the recruitment as “unacceptable and clandestine,” calling it “a very unfortunate episode” in what he said had otherwise been positive and cordial relations between Nairobi and Moscow. Kenyan officials said the exact number of its nationals recruited remains unclear, noting that none of the individuals traveled through official government channels. Many of those involved were allegedly misled with promises of jobs abroad and later coerced into joining the conflict, they added. Mudavadi said talks with Russia will focus on halting any illegal recruitment activities, including negotiations over visa policies and bilateral labor agreements that explicitly exclude any form of military conscription. He said the government should not be blamed for illegal recruitment, noting that authorities have shut down more than 600 recruitment agencies suspected of deceiving Kenyans with false promises of overseas employment. Kenya has so far repatriated 27 citizens, Mudavadi said, adding that authorities are providing psychological support to address trauma and assist with “de-radicalization.” It is unclear how many Kenyans have died fighting for Russia, and Moscow has not formally addressed such reports. The Russian Embassy in Nairobi has reportedly turned away relatives seeking information about loved ones on the front lines. The controversy comes as both Ukraine and Russia have been accused of recruiting foreign nationals mainly from Asia and Africa to fight for their sides using deceptive tactics, such as promises of employment, scholarships and opportunities to compete in sports events. One such case involves Kenyan long-distance runner Evans Kibet, who said he was tricked into joining the Russian army after traveling there for a track event. The 36-year-old athlete is currently a prisoner of war in Ukraine and recounted his experiences in an interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle in November. According to Ukrainian intelligence, more than 1,400 people from 36 African countries have been recruited to fight for Russia.