Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

  • Warm Reception for Lankan Prez in Delhi

    Warm Reception for Lankan Prez in Delhi

    President Dissanayake is expected to hold crucial discussions with Prime Minister Modi later in the day…reports Asian Lite News

    Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake who is on a three-day state visit to New Delhi, was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, marking his first overseas visit as head of state.

    President Dissanayake is expected to hold crucial discussions with Prime Minister Modi later in the day, aiming to reinforce ties and address key regional and global challenges.

    President Dissanayake, who assumed office in September following his victory in Sri Lanka’s presidential and parliamentary elections, was welcomed by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    During the ceremonial reception, President Murmu and President Dissanayake introduced their respective ministers, diplomats, and senior officials, emphasising the warm ties between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi also attended the event.

    The Sri Lankan President’s visit, scheduled from December 15 to 17, is set to focus on deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy, and maritime security.

    Earlier on Sunday, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and highlighted the “island nation’s prominent role in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR Outlook”.

    “Pleased to call on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the start of his first State Visit to India. Sri Lanka is key to both India’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR Outlook. Confident that the talks with PM Narendra Modi tomorrow will lead to greater trust and deeper cooperation,” the EAM said in a post on X.

    Earlier, Sri Lankan President Dissanayake said he held “fruitful discussions on the matters of mutual interest” during his meetings with EAM Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

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  • India Joins Top 3 in Aviation Boom  

    India Joins Top 3 in Aviation Boom  

    Unveiling the Centenary Celebrations Logo of Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, the minister said this marks a momentous milestone in Indian aviation history…reports Asian Lite News

     

    Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu on Friday said that in the last 10 years, India’s civil aviation has pushed boundaries to become the third largest domestic aviation hub in the world, now we need to take it forward, break barriers once again and achieve the goal of becoming the number one domestic hub in the world.  

    Unveiling the Centenary Celebrations Logo of Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, the minister said this marks a momentous milestone in Indian aviation history of a historic airport, a pre-Independence marvel, that stands as a testament to the legacy and progress of the country’s civil aviation sector. 

    Highlighting the importance of Kolkata Airport, he said, “The airport has served through various historical periods, representing the pre-Independence struggle, the growth of the country post-Independence. Today, under the leadership of our Prime Minister, the airport sector has been transformed. A special focus has been put on Kolkata Airport, with significant upgrades in capacity, additional services, and world-class infrastructure over the last five years.” 

    He said the country had made rapid progress in the civil aviation sector. “The way airports have expanded, the way passenger capacity has expanded, airline fleets have grown, and cargo operations have surged, all verticals related to civil aviation have pushed boundaries under the leadership of our Prime Minister. We are now the third-largest domestic aviation hub in the whole world. And now, we need to take it forward, break barriers once again, level up the civil aviation sector, and achieve the goal of becoming the number one domestic hub in the world,” the minister stated. 

    Reflecting on the transformative impact of the UDAN scheme, he remarked, “The UDAN scheme has been revolutionary in the civil aviation sector. Over the last eight years, we have launched more than 600 flights, transporting crores of people. The scheme has made the vision of ‘Hawai Chappal in Hawai Jahaz’ a reality. 

    Naidu said, “Today, as we celebrate 100 years of Kolkata Airport, we see this as a source of inspiration and a sense of pride for the entire country. This is a proud moment for all of us, where we are continuing the legacy built by our nation and drawing inspiration from it for future achievements. The airport has catered to crores of passengers and stood as a vital gateway for Bengal and the country through significant historical milestones. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister always says, ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi.” 

    As part of the centenary celebrations, the Minister announced a series of initiatives that include the release of a commemorative stamp and coin to honour the 100 years of Kolkata Airport, the launch of an art book showcasing India’s cultural heritage reflected in modern airport architecture, and three-month-long celebrations involving the people of Kolkata and Bengal, along with the Airport Authority of India (AAI). 

    A unique UDAN Yatri Cafe is also set to be introduced at Kolkata Airport to cater specifically to passengers travelling under the UDAN scheme. The cafe will offer a curated menu with affordable pricing, ensuring that passengers have access to quality food at a cost-effective rate, enhancing their travel experience without compromising on value. 

    “The civil aviation sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country and plays a critical role in economic growth and job creation. With the unwavering focus of our Prime Minister and a dedicated team, we are confident of achieving even greater milestones in the next five years. The centenary of Kolkata Airport will inspire us to achieve more,” he added. 

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  • India’s Space Industry on a Rocket Ride 

    India’s Space Industry on a Rocket Ride 

    The minister said that PM Modi has opened the space sector for private players which offers an ample opportunity to harness benefits….reports Asian Lite news

    The country’s space economy is set to increase threefold in the next 10 years, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, said on Saturday.  

    Addressing a media event in the national capital, the minister said that India’s space, marine and Himalayan resources, which remained inadequately explored before Prime Minister Narendra Modi took over, will contribute substantially to India’s future economic growth. 

    “India is on the path of raising its space sector to global standards. The country has made a quantum jump since 2014 in the space economy,” he noted. 

    “Currently, India’s space sector contributes eight to nine per cent of the world space economy and this could increase threefold in the next 10 years. This could not have been possible without the active leadership of PM Modi,” the minister emphsised. 

    Answering to a question on how India can unleash benefits out of its natural resources in future in terms of creative growth, the minister said that PM Modi has opened the space sector for private players which offers an ample opportunity to harness benefits. 

    “Though ISRO was born later than NASA but today, it is no longer lagging behind any other organisation in the world. Its capacity is going up day by day. So far, we have launched more than 432 satellites and out of which, 397 were launched after PM Modi took over in 2014,” Dr Singh informed. 

    Dr Singh said, India will have its own space station by 2035. 

    “We need to explore unexplored areas. There is no dearth of resources, potential, commitment and passion,” he added. 

    The space sector that was kept under wraps for 60-70 years, has now been opened to the public sector with the 2023 New Space policy, leading to a significant boom in the industry. 

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  • Modi targets Nehru-Gandhi family in Parliament 

    Modi targets Nehru-Gandhi family in Parliament 

    Modi accused Congress of repeatedly amending the Constitution and said many times the changes were “self-serving”…reports Asian Lite News

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress of manipulating reservations for appeasement, harming SC, ST, and OBC communities and said Dr BR Ambedkar had introduced the reservation system to ensure equality and rights for the underprivileged. 

    “Baba Saheb Ambedkar dedicated his life to uplift marginalised communities for India’s progress. He believed that to make our country developed in a true sense, no section should remain weak. For this, he introduced the reservation system to ensure equality and rights for the underprivileged. However, vote-bank politics by them (Congress) hijacked this system, manipulating reservations for appeasement, harming SC, ST, and OBC communities,” PM Modi said in his speech during discussion on the 150 years of adoption of Constitution. 

    He accused Congress of repeatedly amending the Constitution and said many times the changes were “self-serving”. 

    “In almost six decades, the Constitution was amended 75 times. The poison that was sowed by the first Prime Minister of the country was nurtured by another Prime Minister – Indira Gandhi…,” PM Modi said. 

    “Congress has constantly disrespected the Constitution, reduced the importance of the Constitution. Congress is full of many examples of this… Everyone knows about 370 but very few know about 35-A… If there is any first son of the Constitution of India, then it is the Parliament but they have strangled it too. They imposed 35-A on the country without bringing it to the Parliament… This work was done on the orders of the President and the Parliament of the country was kept in the dark,” he alleged 

    PM Modi said that Congress violated its own constitution and there was little hope of it respecting the country’s Constitution. 

    He said Congress committees favoured Sardar Patel for the role of Prime Minister but Jawaharlal Nehru was chosen. 

    “Twelve state Congress committees of Congress had agreed on the name of Sardar Patel. There was not a single committee with Nehru ji… As per the Constitution, Sardar Sahib would have become the Prime Minister of the country… How can those who do not believe in the Constitution of their party accept the Constitution of the country?” 

    The two-day debate on 75 years of the Constitution started in Lok Sabha on Friday.  

    Opposition criticises Modi’s address 

    Meanwhile, the Opposition leaders critically responded to Modi’s speech in the Lok Sabha on Saturday, describing it as a ‘mixed’ kind of speech and further questioned the government’s record on past promises. 

    TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay said there was “nothing to bite” in the Prime Minister’s address and defended the Congress party’s role in India’s freedom struggle. He asserted that the PM had to accept Congress’s role as the main strength in the fight against the British Raj. 

    “There was nothing to bite in this speech…PM had to accept that he could speak about the dynasty, but Congress was the main strength to fight against the British government. Every Indian recognises their role in the freedom struggle. So, we are sure that the angle PM took today is not up to the mark,” the TMC MP said. 

    “If a person speaks for two hours, many issues will come out. So, there may be a few good issues. There may be a few bad issues also. So, it was a mixed kind of speech,” he added. 

    In a similar vein, Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav critiqued the Prime Minister’s address, focusing on the government’s record of fulfilling past promises. 

    “If the prime minister’s old resolutions had been fulfilled, then new resolutions could also have been discussed,” Yadav said, emphasising that the government should address its previous commitments before making new pledges. 

    “The Prime Minister has been saying many things since 2014. Until the old promises are not fulfilled, it is useless to have expectations for new things,” the SP MP added. 

    Meanwhile, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticised PM Modi’s speech, calling it “absolutely boring” and devoid of anything new or constructive. 

    “PM Narendra Modi did not say anything new or constructive. He absolutely bored me. I thought he would say something significant, but he spoke about 11 hollow promises. If he has zero tolerance towards corruption, he should at least hold a debate on Adani,” Priyanka Gandhi said. 

    Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav commented that the speech was a reiteration of “11 jumlas.” 

    “It was a very long speech. We got to hear the pledge of 11 jumlas today. Those who criticise dynastic politics have a party full of dynasties. The truth is that the reservation for SC/ST, OBC, and Dalits has been taken away. A day will soon come when a caste census will be conducted, and people will receive their rights and respect according to their population,” he said. 

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Congress on Saturday, accusing it of constantly disrespecting the Constitution and presented eleven pledges for India’s bright future, noting that the government and people should follow their duties and the country’s politics should be free of “parivarvad”. 

    Responding to the two-day discussion in Lok Sabha on 75 years of the Constitution, PM Modi made repeated reference to the Nehru-Gandhi family, accusing every generation of its leaders of disrespecting the Constitution. (ANI) 

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  • France flies out 2 Mirage fighter jets from Chad 

    France flies out 2 Mirage fighter jets from Chad 

    French forces have been ousted in recent years from Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso following years of fighting Islamic extremists alongside regional troops…reports Asian Lite News 

    France flew out the two Mirage fighter jets it had stationed in Chad on Tuesday, signaling the beginning of its withdrawal of military forces from the former French colony in central Africa that last month broke off its defense cooperation agreement with Paris. 

    Chad has been a key counterterrorism force in the region and was one of the last countries in which France maintained a large military presence. French forces have been ousted in recent years from Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso following years of fighting Islamic extremists alongside regional troops. Those countries have moved closer to Russia, which has mercenaries deployed across the Sahel, the vast expanse below the Sahara desert. 

    The Mirage 2000-D fighters took off after midday from a French base in the capital, N’Djamena, after Chadian military forces came to wish them farewell, and were returning to an air force base in Nancy in eastern France, French military spokesman Col. Guillaume Vernet said. 

    He added that negotiations with Chadian authorities continued on how and when France might withdraw other members of its 1,000-strong force in Chad, and whether all will leave. 

    The French ground forces will gradually disengage in the coming weeks, Chad’s foreign minister, Koulamallah Abderaman, said in a statement. 

    In announcing the end of the defense cooperation agreement with France last month, the Chadian government described the decision as a turning point for the country that gained independence in 1960, and said it would enable Chad to redefine its strategic partnerships in line with national priorities. 

    Chadian authorities have said the end of the defense agreement in no way calls into question the countries’ historical ties and that it wants to maintain relations in other areas of common interest. 

    Last week, hundreds of people marched in N’Djamena to call for the withdrawal of French troops, chanting “Chad for us, France out!” Some held banners that read, “We do not want to see a single French person in Chad.” 

    UN releases $5 million for Sudanese refugees in Chad 

    Mwanwhile, the UN relief chief released $5 million in emergency relief to support the humanitarian response for Sudanese refugees in neighbouring Chad, UN humanitarians said.  

    The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Tom Fletcher, under-secretary-general and the emergency relief coordinator, made the allocation from the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund. 

    “The new funding will support UN agencies and their partners in providing humanitarian assistance, including healthcare, water, food and shelter support, to both Sudanese refugees and host communities in Chad,” OCHA said on Tuesday. 

    The office said that following an escalation of fighting in Sudan’s western Darfur region, the number of people fleeing Sudan to Chad increased in September and October, with more than 70,000 newly displaced people. 

    OCHA said that since the start of the conflict in Sudan in April of last year, more than 700,000 people have fled to Chad. In Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the UN resident and humanitarian coordinator, expressed her grave concern over reports of shelling in and around the Zamzam camp near El Fasher in western Sudan. 

    The coordinator reported that Zamzam is the largest camp for internally displaced people in Sudan and home to more than 500,000 people. Zamzam came under fire on Sunday and Monday, with at least five people killed and 18 others injured, according to aid organisations. 

    Nkweta-Salami said that it is now more than 232 days since the siege of El Fasher began and stressed the importance of protecting civilians. 

    ‘Millions affected by unprecedented flooding in Chad’ 

    Since July 2024, catastrophic flooding in Chad has wreaked havoc on nearly two million people, marking it as one of the most severe disasters in recent memory. 

    Homes have been swept away, and lives have been shattered. As the floodwaters surged, countless families sought safety on higher ground, grabbing whatever belongings they could carry. No region has been untouched by this disaster. 

    Numerous individuals have lost everything, with over 13,000 people displaced and compelled to find shelter in temporary camps. The global climate crisis is amplifying the frequency and severity of natural disasters like floods, droughts, and cyclones, undermining health, education, and agricultural systems, and devastating the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals. 

    Countries like Chad, which are among the most affected and least equipped to handle climate change, are currently facing dire humanitarian challenges. In N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, residents found themselves in a desperate situation as the River Chari and its tributary, the Logone, swelled to unprecedented levels due to heavy rainfall in October, inundating entire neighbourhoods. 

    The rising floodwaters have increased dangers for women and girls, especially those in the Chari-Baguirmi displacement camp. Midwife Lucille Denembaye shared a heart-breaking story: “I met a woman whose husband gave her HIV. She is just twenty-seven, a mother of five, and her home has collapsed. Now, she can’t care for her children; she has no shelter and no food. Her situation is truly dire.” 

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  • Ethiopia, Somalia to hold talks over Somaliland   

    Ethiopia, Somalia to hold talks over Somaliland   

    Turkey has been mediating between the two east African countries as tensions between them have simmered since Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland in January to lease land along its coastline to establish a marine force base…reports Asian Lite News

    Ethiopia and Somalia agreed on Wednesday to hold “technical talks” to resolve a dispute sparked by Ethiopia’s deal with Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland, according to a statement following talks in Turkey. 

    Turkey has been mediating between the two east African countries as tensions between them have simmered since Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland in January to lease land along its coastline to establish a marine force base. In return, Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland’s independence, which Somalia says infringes on its sovereignty and territory. 

    A joint declaration was reached after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met separately with Somali President Hassan Sheik Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Wednesday. 

    It says the sides agreed the talks, which would begin by February 2025 and conclude within four months, would respect Somalia’s territorial integrity while recognizing “potential benefits” of Ethiopia’s access to the sea. 

    The declaration also says the sides would work to “finalize mutually advantageous commercial arrangements” to allow Ethiopia “to enjoy reliable, secure and sustainable access to and from the sea,” under Somalia sovereignity. 

    Somaliland seceded from Somalia more than 30 years ago, but is not recognized by the African Union or the United Nations as an independent state. Somalia still considers Somaliland part of its territory. 

    Over the years, Somaliland has built a stable political environment, contrasting sharply with Somalia’s ongoing struggles with insecurity amid deadly attacks by al-Qaida-linked militant group al-Shabab. In November, Somaliland held a presidential election that gave a boost for its push for international recognition. 

    With a population estimated at over 120 million, Ethiopia is the most populous landlocked country in the world. Turkey has previously hosted two rounds of talks between the African nations’ foreign ministers but a third round, expected in September, was delayed, raising concerns of escalating tensions. 

    Erdogan, flanked by Mohamud and Abiy, told reporters at a late night news conference in the Turkish capital, Ankara, that the sides have reached an “important stage” in efforts to solve their dispute. The joint declaration, Erdogan said, focuses “on the future and not the past.” 

    “By overcoming some resentments and misunderstandings, we have taken the first step toward a new beginning based on peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia,” Erdogan continued. He also said he hoped Somalia would take steps to give Ethiopia sea access. 

    Abiy, the Ethiopian prime minister, insisted that “Ethiopia’s aspiration for secure access to the sea is a peaceful venture and one that would benefit all our neighbors.” 

    “I believe that today’s constructive discussions will push us into a new year with this spirit of cooperation, friendship and the willingness to work together instead of against each other,” he said. 

    Somalia’s president said the Horn of Africa is a “very fragile and very volatile region, which needs both Ethiopia and Somalia to work together” for the benefit of both. 

    Turkey has forged close ties with Somalia, and recently also signed deals toward cooperation in defense and oil and gas exploration. It also has economic and trade ties with Ethiopia. 

    A Somaliland opposition leader, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, who had been critical of the deal with Ethiopia, won the November election. He is to be inaugurated on Thursday. 

    Meanwhile, Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland on Thursday swore in its new president after last month’s election that gave a boost for the region’s push for international recognition. The ceremony came a day after Somalia and Ethiopia agreed in Turkey to hold “technical talks” over a dispute sparked by a deal Somaliland made with Ethiopia. 

    Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, the region’s former opposition leader who was elected in the November vote, became the sixth president of Somaliland, taking over from Muse Bihi Abdi in an inauguration ceremony in the region’s capital, Hargeisa. 

    In his inaugural address, Abdullahi pledged to strengthen foreign policy and intensify efforts to gain international recognition for Somaliland, citing a “valid legal argument” for its sovereignty. 

    Somaliland seceded from Somalia more than 30 years ago, but is not recognised by the African Union, the United Nations or any other country as an independent state. Somalia still considers Somaliland part of its territory. 

    Over the years, Somaliland has been lauded for its stable political environment, contrasting sharply with Somalia’s ongoing struggles with insecurity amid deadly attacks by al-Qaida-linked militant group al-Shabab. Since 1991, it has maintained its own government, currency, and security structures. 

    Its quest for recognition saw Somaliland sign a memorandum of understanding with neighbouring Ethiopia in January to lease land along its coastline to establish a marine force base. In return, Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland’s independence, which Somalia says infringes on its sovereignty and territory. 

    The agreement and its implications were a contentious issue during Somaliland’s election campaign, with Abdullahi criticising the deal for what he said was a lack of transparency. He has campaigned on a promise to review such agreements to ensure they align with Somaliland’s strategic interests and broader goals for recognition. 

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  • AU chief candidates advocate for permanent UNSC seats 

    AU chief candidates advocate for permanent UNSC seats 

     

    Raila Odinga of Kenya, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar are seeking to be elected as chairperson for the 55-member state African Union…reports Asian Lite News

    Three African politicians seeking to head the African Union detailed their plans on Friday for regional security amid conflicts and political coups while strongly advocating for inter-Africa trade among other issues. 

    Raila Odinga of Kenya, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar are seeking to be elected as chairperson for the 55-member state African Union. 

    They participated in a two-hour debate Friday in Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa in which they all advocated for two permanent seats for African countries in the U.N. Security Council to effectively represent the continent with the youngest population. 

    Odinga said that two permanent seats with veto power were “a must for Africa” and that this was “only fair” since the continent has more than 50 countries. 

    Randriamandrato urged member states to cease the opportunity and “speak with one voice on the choice of who will represent Africa in the UNSC.” 

    The three are seeking to convince most African countries before the February election to succeed African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki, who has served for two terms. 

    The African Union has faced several challenges that include conflict in member countries and political coups that have seen five member states expelled from the union, making regional security a major theme in Friday’s debate. 

    Youssouf said that regional security could be enhanced if the resources for a regional standby force were increased to reduce the overreliance on foreign partnerships for resources. “When there is no unity of purpose among neighboring countries peace will be compromised,” Youseff said. 

    Randriamandrato encouraged countries to take charge of their internal security while cautioning that foreign military bases should be “a thing of the past” because they “could be a source of conflict.” Despite the continent’s young population of 1.3 billion that is set to double by 2050, regional trade has faced challenges that were addressed in the Friday debate. 

    Odinga said that Africa had a “huge domestic market” that it could leverage on for economic transformation by opening up opportunities for trade between African countries. 

    Youssouf proposed a payment compensation system that would ensure countries don’t lose out while trading in different currencies adding, “are we going to have a single currency, why not?” Randriamandrato said that regional economic blocs like the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa had a huge role to play in easing inter-Africa trade. 

    The African Union has several proposed reforms on its structure and leadership aimed at achieving its purpose, and all candidates promised to implement the reforms if elected. 

    Youssouf said that key reforms in the union were facing a funding bottleneck and that “it has to change,” adding that he wouldn’t impose it on member states but would “advocate for it.” 

    Sudan suspended from AU 

    The African Union Peace and Security (PSC) Council suspended the participation of the Republic of Sudan in all AU activities until the effective establishment of a civilian-led Transitional Authority, as the only way to allow Sudan to exit from its current crisis. 

    While reaffirming their solidarity with the people of The Sudan in their aspirations to a constitutional framework and institutions that would allow the country to make progress in its efforts towards the democratic transformation of the country, the PSC further decided that, should the Transition Military Council fail to hand-over power to a civilian-led Transitional Authority, the Council would impose punitive measures on individuals and entities obstructing the establishment of the civilian-led Transitional Authority. 

    The suspension of Sudan follows what PSC termed as the lack of progress towards the establishment of a civilian-led Transitional Authority since its initial meeting following the coup d’etat of April 2019 in Sudan.  

    The PSC condemned the violence that led to the loss of lives and injuries among civilians; further requesting the Chairperson of the AU Commission, in close coordination with the relevant stakeholders in Sudan, IGAD and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), within the framework of relevant AU instruments relating to the fight against impunity, to make concrete proposals on the modalities for an investigation into the deadly events which took place from 3 June 2019 in Sudan and submit the report the Council. 

    Call for collective efforts to curb hate speech 

    African Union Special Envoy on the Prevention of Genocide and Other Mass Atrocities Adama Dieng called for urgent actions to combat racism, negative ethnicity, xenophobia, and all forms of intolerance in the region. 

    Speaking at the International Conference on Genocide Prevention in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, Dieng said on Monday that the Rwandan genocide against Tutsi in 1994, in which about a million people were killed, did not start with machetes but dehumanisation of the Tutsi ethnic group. He noted that the conflict in South Sudan started as a political crisis, where hate speech across ethnic lines was encouraged and instigated. 

    Quoting United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Dieng said hate speech is, in itself, an attack on tolerance, inclusion, diversity, and the very essence of human rights norms and principles. 

    “We should combat intolerance, treat our fellow human beings with dignity and respect. We cannot just be speaking about preventing genocide and then fail to take urgent actions to prevent it,” he said. 

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  • Zimbabwe to abolish death penalty   

    Zimbabwe to abolish death penalty   

    Zimbabwe’s Parliament said Thursday that the bill was passed by senators the night before. The death penalty will be abolished if it is signed by the president, which is likely…reports Asian Lite News

    Zimbabwe’s Senate has approved a bill to abolish the death penalty, a key step in scrapping a law last used in the southern African nation nearly 20 years ago. 

    Zimbabwe’s Parliament said Thursday that the bill was passed by senators the night before. The death penalty will be abolished if it is signed by the president, which is likely. 

    The southern African country uses hanging, and last executed someone in 2005, partly because at one point no one was willing to take up the job of state executioner, or hangman. 

    President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe’s leader since 2017, has publicly spoken of his opposition to capital punishment. He has cited his own experience of being sentenced to death — which was later changed to 10 years in prison — for blowing up a train during the country’s war of independence in the 1960s. He has used presidential amnesties to commute death sentences to life in prison. 

    Amnesty International, which campaigns against the death penalty, urged Mnangagwa to sign the bill into law “without delay” and commute death sentences. Zimbabwe has more than 60 prisoners currently on death row. 

    According to Amnesty, about three-quarters of countries in the world no longer carry out the death penalty. Zimbabwe is one of more than a dozen in Africa and more than 50 across the world that have the death penalty enshrined in law without any official moratorium on it. 

    Amnesty International said it recorded 1,153 known executions globally in 2023, up from 883 the previous year, although countries that carried out executions declined from 20 to 16. Due to a veil of secrecy, the figures do not include those from North Korea, Vietnam and China. 

    China is the “world’s lead executioner” where thousands of people are believed to have been executed, Amnesty said in a report released in October. 

    Iran and Saudi Arabia accounted for almost 90% of all executions recorded by Amnesty in 2023. The United States recorded an increase from 18 executions in 2022 to 24 in 2023. Last year, China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia and the U.S. recorded the most executions, in that order. 

    Zimbabwe is among four African countries alongside Kenya, Liberia and Ghana that have recently taken “positive steps” towards abolishing the death penalty, Amnesty said. 

    The change was initiated by a member of the main opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change, MP Edwin Mushoriwa, through a private member’s bill. This rarely used process was introduced before the National Assembly in November 2023. According to prescribed procedure, the National Assembly had to approve the official tabling of the bill before it could be gazetted for formal consideration. Now that the executive has signalled its backing, it is all but assured that the Zanu-PF-dominated parliament will formally adopt the bill. 

    The cabinet decision to abolish the death penalty should not come as a great surprise. Zimbabwe has been a de facto abolitionist state for almost two decades. Although its law still allows for the death penalty, it last executed a prisoner in 2005. 

    Legal reform on the death penalty often pits legislatures against public opinion. It is not entirely clear what the Zimbabwean general public’s views on the issue are. In its statement, the cabinet said grassroots consultations were conducted in 30 districts. But it does not say what the outcomes of these consultations were. 

    A 2018 survey found 61% of Zimbabweans supported retention of the death penalty. However, a 2020 survey of Zimbabwean opinion leaders showed strong support for abolition. 

    It is probably Zanu-PF’s fear of a popular push back that has stifled action towards abolition. Doing it via a private member’s bill insulates the ruling party from any potential popular backlash, to some extent. It is no coincidence that the 2023 abolition of the death penalty for ordinary crimes in Ghana also came via a private member’s bill. 

    While some opposition is to be expected, indications are that the general Zimbabwean public will take the government’s lead on this. 

    It is significant that the 2018 study also found that 80% of those favouring retention indicated that if the death penalty were to be abolished, they would accept it as government policy. The reasons for this level of support for abolition lie in the country’s “pre-colonial” culture and colonial history, as I explain below. 

    It is surprising that the latest decision did not come earlier. President Emmerson Mnangagwa is well known to be an opponent of the death sentence. He was sentenced to death in 1965 for sabotage by the white minority Rhodesian regime. His sentence was reduced to 10 years’ imprisonment, thanks to his youthful age of 22. 

    Soon after he took office, in 2018, Mnangagwa commuted to life imprisonment the sentences of inmates detained for longer than 10 years. In 2016, as vice president, he had publicly declared the death penalty an archaic imposition of British colonialism that is at odds with the values of pre-colonial Shona societies. 

    In Shona cosmology, murder is understood as affecting the whole community. It calls for a restorative – rather than a retributive – approach. Payment of reparations to the deceased’s family averts the wrath of an “avenging spirit” 

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  • EMAAR Doubles Dividend 

    EMAAR Doubles Dividend 

    Emaar Properties to Distribute 100% of Share Capital as Dividends amounting to AED 8.8 billion for 2024 doubling 2023 dividend…reports Asian Lite News  

    Emaar Properties PJSC has announced its decision to distribute 100% of its share capital as dividends for the year 2024 amounting to AED 8.8 billion (US$ 2.4 billion), reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional value to shareholders. This is an 100% increase in dividend paid for 2023 of AED 4.4 billion (US$ 1.2 billion). This significant milestone reflects Emaar’s robust financial performance and dedication to investor satisfaction. 

    This year’s dividend distribution will result in the total value of initial investments growing almost four times since the company’s inception, marking a remarkable achievement for both Emaar and its investors. This accomplishment underscores Emaar’s consistent ability to generate substantial returns while pursuing growth and innovation. 

    Emaar’s outstanding performance in 2024 builds upon a legacy of success in previous years. The company’s property sales have reached record levels, driven by innovative developments, strong customer confidence, and a strategic focus on quality and market expansion. These results highlight Emaar’s role as a key contributor to Dubai’s real estate sector and the broader economy. 

    Closely linked to Dubai’s visionary policies, which create a dynamic business environment and encourage sustainable growth, the company’s progress reflects the emirate’s proactive economic strategies and its dedication to positioning Dubai as a global hub for innovation and investment. 

    “At Emaar, our priority has always been to create exceptional value for our shareholders, and this year’s 100% dividend distribution is a clear reflection of that commitment,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar Properties. “We’re thrilled to see our early investors realise returns that have multiplied four times. This achievement highlights the trust placed in Emaar’s vision and our relentless focus on innovation, operational excellence, and delivering world-class developments that enhance lives and contribute to Dubai’s standing on the global stage.” 

    This success aligns with Emaar’s long-term strategy to consistently enhance shareholder value while expanding its presence in key markets. By embracing digital transformation, prioritising sustainability, and investing in its workforce, Emaar ensures it remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence within the industry. 

    Emaar Properties PJSC, listed on the Dubai Financial Market, is a global property developer and provider of premium lifestyles, with a significant presence in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. One of the world’s largest real estate companies, Emaar has a land bank of over 1.7 billion sq. ft. in the UAE and key international markets.  

    With a proven track-record in delivery, Emaar has delivered approx. 117,000 residential units in Dubai and other global markets since 2002. Emaar has strong recurring revenue-generating assets with approx. 1.4 million sq. mtr. of leasing revenue-generating assets and 38 hotels and resorts with around 9,200 keys (includes owned as well as managed hotels). Today, 36 percent of Emaar’s revenue is from its shopping malls, hospitality, leisure, entertainment, commercial leasing, and international businesses.  

    Burj Khalifa, a global icon, Dubai Mall, the world’s most-visited retail and lifestyle destination, and Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest performing fountain, are among Emaar’s trophy destinations.  

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  • Solidarity With Syrians 

    Solidarity With Syrians 

    Arab Ministers Declare Solidarity with Syrians: Call for Unity, Stability, and Aid…reports Asian Lite News

    The Arab Ministerial Contact Committee on Syria has reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with the Syrian people and pledged comprehensive support during this pivotal period. Meeting in the Jordanian city of Aqaba on Saturday, the Committee issued a declaration underscoring its commitment to a peaceful, inclusive political transition for Syria and emphasizing the importance of national unity and humanitarian assistance. 

    The meeting was attended by foreign ministers from key Arab states, including Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, as well as the Secretary-General of the Arab League. Together, they deliberated on the ongoing challenges facing Syria, which has been gripped by more than a decade of conflict and instability. 

    In its statement, the Committee affirmed its dedication to standing with the Syrian people and providing the necessary aid to support their aspirations for a free, secure, and stable Syria. The ministers called for an end to military operations and emphasized the need to respect the rights of all Syrians, regardless of race, sect, or religion. 

    The Committee expressed its unequivocal support for a United Nations-led political process, urging the international community to strengthen the role of the UN envoy to Syria and establish a mission to assist in overseeing the transitional process. 

    “The future of Syria lies in the hands of its people,” the statement emphasized. “It is imperative to create a framework for an inclusive national dialogue, where all components of Syrian society—including women, youth, and civil society—can participate in shaping the country’s destiny.” 

    Key Resolutions 

    The Committee outlined several critical measures to address Syria’s ongoing crisis: 

    Political Transition: The statement highlighted the necessity of a peaceful political transition, aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. This includes forming an inclusive transitional governing body and holding free and fair elections under UN supervision. 

    Humanitarian Assistance: The ministers called for enhanced efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the Syrian people, ensuring their basic needs are met during this challenging time. 

    National Reconciliation: Stressing the importance of unity, the Committee advocated for national reconciliation and transitional justice to heal the wounds of war and foster stability. 

    Return of Refugees: Preparing the conditions for the voluntary return of Syrian refugees was identified as a priority, with a call for cooperation with international organizations to facilitate their reintegration. 

    Combating Terrorism: Recognizing the regional and global threat of terrorism, the ministers pledged to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts to ensure Syria’s security and stability. 

    Preservation of Syrian State Institutions: To prevent further chaos, the Committee stressed the importance of preserving and strengthening state institutions capable of serving the Syrian people. 

    The Committee strongly condemned Israel’s incursions into Syrian territories, particularly in the buffer zone and the Golan Heights. Labeling these actions as violations of international law, the ministers called for an immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces and demanded that the Security Council take decisive measures to halt such aggression. 

    “The Golan Heights is occupied Arab Syrian land, and its occupation must end,” the statement declared. The Committee also criticized Israeli airstrikes on Syrian facilities, emphasizing their detrimental impact on the nation’s sovereignty and stability. 

    Looking forward, the ministers envisioned a united Syria as a cornerstone of regional stability. They underscored the need for an inclusive Syrian political system based on equality, justice, and respect for diversity. 

    “This delicate stage demands solidarity among all Syrians—across political, social, and ethnic lines—to build a nation that reflects their aspirations,” the statement read. “Syria must emerge as a unified, independent, and secure Arab state, free from terrorism, extremism, and foreign intervention.” 

    The Committee stressed the importance of engaging with international partners to align efforts in support of Syria’s recovery and reconstruction. A meeting of the Arab League Council was proposed to present the Committee’s findings and strengthen collective action. 

    “The security and stability of Syria are integral to the region’s overall well-being,” the statement concluded. “We are committed to supporting the Syrian people in their journey toward peace, justice, and prosperity.” 

    The meeting in Aqaba reflects renewed Arab efforts to address Syria’s protracted crisis through dialogue and collaboration. By emphasizing solidarity and outlining a comprehensive roadmap for Syria’s political and humanitarian future, the Arab Ministerial Contact Committee has sent a strong message of hope and determination. 

    The next steps, including implementing these resolutions and ensuring sustained international support, will be crucial in helping Syria transition from conflict to stability. For millions of Syrians, this declaration marks a beacon of hope amid years of suffering and uncertainty. 

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