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DR Congo: UN Says Rwanda-Backed M23 Blocked Human Rights Probe
The United Nations has accused the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, of obstructing a UN fact-finding mission’s access to areas under its control in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR) stated this denial is “seriously hampering” efforts to investigate alleged severe human rights abuses. Despite prior notification, UN investigators were barred entry at the Gisenyi-Goma border by M23-appointed immigration officials. M23 captured Goma in January amid ongoing conflict in the region.
Niger: Human Rights Watch Demands Release of Detained Former President Bazoum
Human Rights Watch has called on Niger’s military junta to release ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, detained since the July 2023 coup. Bazoum and his wife have remained confined in the presidential palace. Accused of treason, Bazoum could face the death penalty if tried. No formal case has yet been initiated, despite the lifting of his presidential immunity. International courts, including ECOWAS and the UN, have declared his detention arbitrary.
Togo: Public Outcry Over Constitutional Shift Cementing Gnassingbé Dynasty
Widespread protests have erupted in Togo following the adoption of a controversial constitution allowing President Faure Gnassingbé to bypass term limits by transitioning to a powerful prime ministerial role. Critics say the changes entrench a dynasty in power since 1967. Civil society groups, not traditional opposition parties, have led demonstrations, resulting in at least five deaths. The reforms were passed without a referendum and amid allegations of electoral suppression.
Sudan: RSF Accused of Destroying $1 Million Water Laboratory
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have reportedly destroyed Khartoum State’s main water analysis facility, valued at $1 million, according to the head of the state water authority. Over 450 vehicles used in water operations were also lost. The destruction has severely impacted water safety monitoring amid the ongoing civil conflict. The International Committee of the Red Cross has sent emergency spare parts to support restoration efforts.
Sudan: Premier League Returns Amid Conflict
Despite the ongoing war, Sudan’s Premier League resumed in July, bringing rare joy to war-weary citizens. Al-Hilal clinched the championship after defeating rivals Al-Merrikh. Matches have provided a temporary escape from the violence that has displaced millions and plunged the country into humanitarian crisis. Players expressed elation at competing again on home soil, even away from the besieged capital.
Somalia: Puntland Denies Piracy in Ship Seizure Dispute
Puntland state has rejected the Somali federal government’s claim that it committed piracy by seizing a Comoros-flagged vessel near its coast. Puntland, which declared autonomy in 1998, said the ship was loitering suspiciously and carried only military cargo. The central government insists the cargo was legally authorized and included goods for Somali traders. The incident has heightened tensions between Puntland and Mogadishu.
Central African Republic: Voter Lists Published Ahead of 2025 Polls
The Central African Republic’s National Elections Authority has published provisional voter lists ahead of general elections scheduled for December 2025. The release marks a key milestone despite earlier delays caused by security and logistical hurdles. Citizens can now contest omissions or errors as civil society groups push for transparency. Concerns remain over reported irregularities in the registry.
Gambia: Anti-Corruption Protesters Demand Accountability
Thousands protested in Banjul on Wednesday, demanding government action against corruption. Organised by the youth movement Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), demonstrators submitted petitions on various scandals, including the 2022 deaths of 70 children linked to tainted cough syrup and allegations of kickbacks in a Russian oil deal. Protesters urged President Adama Barrow to take decisive anti-corruption measures.
Tunisia: Appeals Court Overturns Inmate’s Sentence Over Presidential Broadcast
A Tunisian appeals court has overturned the conviction of a prisoner sentenced for allegedly refusing to watch televised content featuring President Kais Saied. The man had been prosecuted under charges related to offending the head of state but was later convicted under public decency laws. Human rights advocates criticised the case as emblematic of growing repression.
Libya-Greece: Athens Invites Tripoli to Maritime Talks Amid Tensions
Greece has invited Libya’s UN-recognised government to commence negotiations on maritime boundaries in the Mediterranean. The outreach follows strained relations over Libya’s 2019 maritime agreement with Turkey. Greece’s recent energy exploration plans near Crete have also sparked Libyan objections. Talks aim to ease tensions and address illegal migration routes from Libya to southern Greece.
Prepared for professional, diplomatic, and policy review.
