WASHINGTON – American politicians and civil rights leaders are lending their voices to the protests in Nigeria against abuses by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a police unit accused of excessive violence against civilians. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, wrote a letter along with the Congressional Black Caucus to Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari […]
General
African Reporters Try to Unpack Complex, Contested US Election
The world is watching as the U.S. prepares for a crucial election for president and thousands of other representatives at all levels of government. In Africa’s most mature democracy, South Africa, citizens are watching the drama with interest — with the aid of a few seasoned journalists who are attempting to explain the quirks and […]
Rights Groups Condemn Shooting of ‘End SARS’ Protesters in Lagos
ABUJA, NIGERIA – Protesters in Lagos, Nigeria, have accused the military of opening fire on them Tuesday as they defied a curfew to demand an end to police brutality. Nigeria’s military has denied that the uniformed men, seen in social media videos firing on the unarmed protesters, were their troops. Twenty-five year old Dominic Alonge […]
Conde Seeks Controversial Third Term in Guinea Elections
Voters in Guinea went to the polls Sunday to cast ballots for a president, as incumbent Alpha Conde seeks a controversial third term. Conde, a member of the Rally of the Guinean People party, was the country’s first democratically elected leader since the country’s liberation from France in 1958. He came to power in 2010. […]
Uganda’s ‘Taxi Divas’ Rise From Covid-19’s Economic Gloom
KAMPALA, UGANDA – The women grappled with each other inside the vehicle. The driver jerked to ease the grip around her neck, then turned to elbow her attacker in the back seat. She flung the door open to make her escape, ending the simulated attack. “This one is too strong for me,” the attacker said, […]
Rise in Malawi Suicide Cases Linked to COVID-19
BLANTYRE, MALAWI – Malawi has recorded a 57% increase in suicides since the start the coronavirus pandemic. Psychologists blame loss of hope in dealing with social distancing and economic problems from COVID-19. Emily Luangwa recalls how her brother was under pressure to repay a loan from his creditors before he took his own life in […]