Month: July 2026

In the heart of Kinshasa, where the Congo River flows silently, history has been written not in the light of public declarations, but in the shadows of clandestine corridors and whispered orders. Since gaining independence in 1960, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been governed not only by its presidents, but by an invisible force—its intelligence services. These agencies, born in the crucible of Cold War intrigues and perpetual coups, have shaped the nation’s destiny far more than any elected official. The intelligence services: a state within the state Unlike conventional government institutions, Congo’s intelligence agencies are not mere instruments of policy—they are the very pillars of power. When the National Intelligence Agency (ANR) coughs, the Presidential Palace shudders...

Cameroon's opposition party calls for urgent constitutional clarity after president's extended absence Cameroon's political landscape is shrouded in uncertainty as President Paul Biya, who left for Europe on June 7, 2026, for what was officially described as a brief private visit, remains outside the country after more than 40 days. The official statement from the Civil Cabinet offered no specifics beyond confirming the president's departure from Yaoundé, while credible reports indicate he traveled to Switzerland for undisclosed reasons. This prolonged absence has sparked widespread speculation and raised questions about the continuity of governance in the Central African nation. Domestic observers and political figures are voicing concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding th...

Politicsdiplomatic breakthrough: Gabon and France redefine their strategic partnershipReporting team 20 July 2026 80 No commentParis, 20 July 2026 — The three-day state visit of Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to France marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, transcending mere ceremonial formalities to focus on concrete strategic outcomes.Beyond the pomp of military honors and the Élysée Palace state dinner, this visit signals a deliberate effort to recalibrate the partnership between Libreville and Paris. Key priorities include economic cooperation, industrial sovereignty, security collaboration, and deeper engagement with the Gabonese diaspora across France.This marks the first time President Oligui Nguema has been received in France for a full state visit since as...

PoliticsGabon's leadership recognized with political courage awardBy Editor-in-Chief July 20, 2026 119 No commentLibreville, July 20, 2026 — The 2026 Political Courage Prize awarded to Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema transcends mere ceremonial recognition. It stands as an international acknowledgment of leadership rooted in steadfastness, reform-driven governance, and the determination to embed Gabon within a sustainable transformation trajectory.By joining the exclusive circle of leaders honored over the decades, the Head of State demonstrates a rare political trait: the ability to maintain course despite resistance and uncertainty.« Political courage isn’t a one-day act. It’s the capacity to uphold commitments over time. » These words, spoken by Brice Clotaire Oligui Ngue...

Ousmane Sonko set to make waves in Thiès with Pastef ahead of membership drive Thiès is buzzing with anticipation as political circles prepare for Ousmane Sonko’s highly anticipated visit this Sunday. Local Pastef leaders are mobilizing full force to ensure a memorable reception, aligning with the party’s ongoing membership drive. Ousmane Sonko continues his nationwide campaign tour with a stopover in Thiès, where expectations are sky-high. Birame Souleye Diop, former Minister of Energy and Petroleum, confirmed the visit during a meeting with party activists, emphasizing the significance of this engagement. The capital of Senegal’s rail industry is abuzz with preparations as Pastef’s top brass finalizes plans for a grand reception. This visit comes on the h...