Etienne Fakaba Sissoko, an economist and former advisor to President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, was arrested by the Brigade d'intervention judiciaire due to his recent book criticizing the military junta's management of the transition in Mali. The book, published in December, accuses the transitional authorities of propaganda and lies. Sissoko, who had previously been imprisoned for commenting on economic sanctions by Cédéao, faces charges of undermining state credit and spreading false information. The article also highlights the repression of opposition under the junta, including the recent ban on the coalition 'Synergie d'action pour le Mali'.

Etienne Fakaba Sissoko was arrested at his home by the Brigade d'intervention judiciaire on March 25, 2024, due to a book he published criticizing the Malian transitional authorities' 'propaganda' and 'lies.' He had previously served six months in prison in 2022 for commenting on the impact of Cédéao's economic sanctions against Mali. The military junta has made opposition expressions difficult, with numerous repressive measures. A coalition of 30 opposition parties and groups, 'Synergie d'action pour le Mali,' was banned by authorities for allegedly posing public order threats.

Vladimir Putin's reelection with over 87% of the vote has been met with mixed reactions in Africa, where Russian influence is growing. While Western countries have denounced the election as a sham, African reactions have been muted. Chadian transitional president Mahamat Déby Itno praised Putin's electoral victory, which may signal a willingness to align with Russia amid Western pressure. Algeria, a strong Russian ally, congratulated Putin, while Niger's military regime leader also sent congratulations. No official reactions were reported from Mali or Burkina Faso, where Russian ties are strengthening, particularly with the presence of Wagner Group paramilitaries in Mali.

A proposed law to reintroduce female genital mutilation (FGM) in Gambia has sparked significant debate. Human rights organizations and women's rights activists argue that the legislation threatens years of progress. Activist Jaha Dukureh and NGO leader Fatou Baldeh express strong opposition, highlighting the ongoing practice despite its illegality. Amnesty International's Michele Eken warns of broader regional implications for women's rights. The law, initially banned by former President Yahya Jammeh in 2015, is supported by some for cultural and religious reasons. The proposal has been sent to a parliamentary committee for further debate.

Vladimir Putin has been reelected as Russia's president with over 87% of the vote. His reelection was quickly praised by allies like China and Cuba, while Western countries criticized it as a sham. In Africa, where Russian influence is growing, reactions have been sparse. African leaders, who often manipulate democracy in their own countries, are watching the international community's response. Chad's transitional president Mahamat Déby Itno, whose country is a Western ally in the Sahel, suggested he might align with Russia if pressured by the West. Algeria, Niger, and Mali, where Russian cooperation is active and Russian paramilitaries are present, have also reacted to Putin's reelection. In Burkina Faso, there has been little interest in the Russian election among the public.

The announcement of the presidential election date in Senegal has eased political tensions. The Constitutional Council's decision to hold the election on March 31, as opposed to President Macky Sall's proposed March 24, is seen as a move to uphold democracy. The election will occur before Sall's term ends on April 2, addressing opposition concerns about his intent to extend his power. Analyst Maurice Dione highlights the detrimental effects of hyper-presidentialism and credits the Constitutional Council for preserving Senegalese democracy, while noting that Sall's actions have tarnished his image.

The Senegalese presidential election is set for either March 24 or March 31, as proposed by President Macky Sall and announced by the Constitutional Council, respectively. This decision aims to ease political tensions following the postponement of the initial February 25 election. The Constitutional Council's ruling ensures that the election will occur before Sall's term ends on April 2, with a potential second round to follow. Analyst Maurice Soudieck Dione emphasizes the importance of the March 31 date and highlights the detrimental effects of hyper-presidentialism, noting that the Constitutional Council has preserved Senegalese democracy while Sall's actions have tarnished his image.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will each receive approximately two million dollars from ECOWAS to combat jihadist groups, with Burkina Faso receiving an additional one million dollars in humanitarian aid due to its high number of internally displaced persons. Analyst Daouda Emile Ouédraogo praises the aid but criticizes the continued sanctions on Niger. Six NGOs, including Oxfam and Action contre la faim, urge ECOWAS to reopen the Niger-Benin border for humanitarian reasons. ECOWAS aims to negotiate with Niger's military regime to restore civilian rule.

ECOWAS has announced a financial contribution of $1.9 million each to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger for the purchase of weapons to combat terrorism. Burkina Faso will also receive an additional $1 million in humanitarian aid due to its high number of internally displaced persons. Analyst Daouda Emile Ouédraogo commends the move, emphasizing the need for ECOWAS to support its people rather than reinstating deposed powers. Amidst a humanitarian crisis, NGOs including Oxfam have called for urgent humanitarian exemptions from ECOWAS, such as reopening the border with Benin. ECOWAS has provided access for medical and humanitarian goods, but the military authorities have refused to use it. The border remains closed from both sides. ECOWAS is also pushing for the Nigerien military junta to commit to returning power to civilians by organizing elections and has formed a committee with the presidents of Benin, Togo, and Sierra Leone to negotiate with the Nigerien regime.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission, Minusma, has ended its ten-year presence in Mali amid mixed reviews. Initially deployed to stabilize Mali and support political processes, the mission faced challenges adapting to the evolving security and political landscape, including terrorism and military transitions. Experts and officials offer varied assessments, with some citing its contributions to human rights and logistics, while others point to its marginalization by other international forces. Despite the heavy toll, with over 180 members lost, the UN maintains that the mission achieved significant positive outcomes.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission, Minusma, has concluded its decade-long presence in Mali, leaving behind a mixed legacy. Initially deployed to stabilize the country and support political processes, the mission faced challenges adapting to Mali's evolving security and political landscape, particularly after the 2020 military takeover. While some experts criticize Minusma's limited impact on security and its marginalization by other international forces, the UN maintains that the mission achieved significant progress in human rights protection and logistical support. Despite losing over 180 personnel to attacks, the UN views the mission as largely positive, though constrained by limited resources.

Niger has ended the EUCAP Sahel Niger and EUMPM missions, which supported its security forces in combating terrorism. This decision follows the suspension of EU military cooperation after the July 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. The EU regrets this move, which coincides with Niger's increasing military cooperation with Russia. The EUCAP mission had been active since 2012, training over 20,000 security personnel, while EUMPM was launched in early 2023. The shift in alliances reflects Niger's broader strategy of distancing itself from Western partners.

Germany has reached an agreement on tightening its migration policy after extensive negotiations. Key measures include faster asylum application processing, reduced aid for asylum seekers, and financial support for local governments. Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Hesse's Minister-President Boris Rhein praised the agreement. The policy shift contrasts with former Chancellor Angela Merkel's 2015 open-door policy, influenced by the rise of the far-right AfD. A recent survey shows immigration as the top concern for Germans, surpassing climate change and social issues. The federal government and Länder are considering processing asylum applications outside the EU, despite constitutional concerns.

Germany is grappling with the challenge of funding refugee and migrant care, a topic central to a meeting in Berlin between the federal government and representatives from the 16 German states. Regions and municipalities are struggling with increased refugee numbers and insufficient funds. The FDP, a liberal party in the ruling coalition, has called for a drastic reduction in state support for asylum seekers, while SPD leader Lars Klingbeil is open to processing asylum applications outside Europe. On June 23, 2023, Germany's immigration policy shifted with new legislation aimed at attracting non-EU skilled labor to address a significant workforce deficit projected to reach over seven million by 2035.

Following the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger's military government has terminated the EUCAP Sahel Niger and EUMPM missions, which were aimed at supporting Niger's defense and security forces. The European Union expressed regret over this decision. The move coincides with increased military cooperation between Niger and Russia, as highlighted by the recent visit of a Russian delegation to Niamey. This shift marks a gradual distancing of Niger from its Western partners.

The Congolese government is calling for international sanctions against Rwanda due to ongoing massacres in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As fighting continues near Goma between M23 rebels and the Congolese army, Kinshasa warns Rwanda of immediate retaliation if Goma is attacked. The DRC accuses Rwanda of militarily supporting M23, a claim confirmed by the United Nations but denied by Kigali. Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula has expressed disappointment over the lack of international support and is seeking sanctions similar to those imposed on Russia. Political analyst Henri Désiré N'zouzi echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for international action against Rwanda.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The UN and various humanitarian organizations are calling for immediate ceasefire and increased aid. The International Criminal Court is investigating potential crimes related to the conflict. The United States supports humanitarian pauses to alleviate civilian suffering.

UN peacekeeping missions in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Mali, and the Central African Republic, have struggled to protect civilians and bring stability. Analysts attribute this to political instability and weak mandates that limit the use of force. The UN's inability to operate effectively in politically unstable regions like Mali, where the government demanded the withdrawal of the Minusma mission, highlights these challenges. Calls for reforming UN operations and granting more offensive mandates are suggested as potential solutions.

The European Union is contemplating sanctions against Niger's military regime, supporting ECOWAS' efforts to restore constitutional order, while still providing humanitarian aid. The US, however, is opting for dialogue, maintaining military presence in Niger to counter Russian influence and support regional security. Iran aligns with US policy, seeking collaboration with Niger's military regime. The EU's regulatory framework for sanctions lacks specific targets, and experts express skepticism about their effectiveness, viewing them as pressure to hasten a return to constitutional order.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is calling for increased international sanctions against Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the M23 rebels in ongoing conflicts near Goma. The DRC's Foreign Minister, Christophe Lutundula, has expressed disappointment over the lack of international support in addressing the violence in the eastern region. Political analyst Henri Désiré N’zouzi suggests that Kinshasa is seeking sanctions similar to those imposed on Russia. The United Nations has confirmed the accusations against Rwanda, which Kigali denies.

The European Union is considering sanctions against the military leaders in Niger following a coup, while the United States seeks to maintain contact with them. The EU has adopted a legal framework for sanctions, which includes asset freezes and travel bans, to support the release of President Mohamed Bazoum and a return to constitutional order. Analysts express skepticism about the effectiveness of sanctions and highlight the potential for the military junta to seek support from Russia if pressured. The US maintains a military presence in Niger for counterterrorism efforts and aims to prevent the junta from aligning with Russia.

The European Union has established a legal framework for sanctions against individuals and organizations opposing democracy and constitutional order in Niger, including asset freezes and travel bans. The EU's priorities include the release of President Mohamed Bazoum and a return to constitutional order. Analysts express skepticism about the effectiveness of sanctions, viewing them as negotiation tools. The EU continues humanitarian aid, while the US maintains dialogue with Niger's military junta to prevent alignment with Russia and Wagner. Approximately 1,000 US soldiers remain in Niger for counter-terrorism efforts.

The Non-Aligned Movement, established in 1961, is the second-largest group of countries after the United Nations, with 120 member states, primarily from Africa. The current summit in Kampala, Uganda, chaired by Uganda, will address issues such as food insecurity, climate change, development financing, and debt. Ugandan Foreign Minister Jeje Odong emphasized the need for multilateralism and solidarity. Expert Dany Ayida noted that the movement's relevance has diminished since the end of the Cold War. The movement, which includes 120 countries and several observer states and organizations, aims to promote independence and avoid East-West confrontations.

The Malian army has reported significant advances towards Kidal, utilizing both aerial and ground forces, and claims to have dispersed opposing forces. Meanwhile, the CSP-PSD, a coalition of armed groups primarily composed of Tuaregs, claims to have trapped Malian soldiers and Wagner Group mercenaries. The article explores the strategic importance of Kidal for both the Malian government and Tuareg insurgents, featuring insights from Etienne Fakaba Sissoko, a researcher at the Centre for Political, Economic, and Social Analysis of Mali.

Mohamed Bazoum has been detained in his residence in Niamey for 80 days, with limited access to electricity and water. The West African organization Cédéao and several Western capitals have condemned his detention as a hostage situation and called for his release. Bazoum has appealed to the Cédéao Court of Justice for his release and the restoration of constitutional order in Niger. Meanwhile, the French military has begun withdrawing from Niger, with the first contingent of soldiers leaving for Chad. Approximately 1,500 French soldiers are expected to leave Niger by the end of the year.

The French military is continuing its withdrawal from Niger as ousted President Mohamed Bazoum marks his 80th day in detention. Bazoum, held in his residence in Niamey with his family, faces intermittent access to electricity and water. The West African organization Cédéao and several Western capitals have condemned his detention as a hostage situation and called for his release. Despite Bazoum's appeal to the Cédéao Court of Justice for his release and the restoration of constitutional order, analysts believe his return to power is unlikely. The French military, pushed out by the Nigerien junta, has begun relocating troops and equipment, with a full withdrawal expected by the end of the year.

The European Union is considering sanctions against Niger's military regime, aiming to support ECOWAS' efforts to restore constitutional order. The EU continues to provide humanitarian aid despite the sanctions. In contrast, the United States maintains a more conciliatory approach, seeking dialogue with Nigerien coup leaders to prevent the spread of Russian influence. Iran has expressed willingness to collaborate with Niger's military regime, aligning with US policy. Experts are skeptical about the effectiveness of EU sanctions, viewing them as a pressure tactic to expedite a return to constitutional order.

The European Union initially planned to send around 80 observers to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the elections but has reduced the number to eight, all based in Kinshasa. This decision, influenced by security concerns and technical constraints, has been met with mixed reactions. Rostin Manketa from the NGO 'la Voix des sans voix' sees the presence of even a small number of independent observers as crucial. The Association congolaise pour l'accès à la justice (ACAJ) expressed regret over the reduction. The new mission will include experts in various fields, and their report will be submitted directly to the EU. Jean Claude Katende of Asadho emphasized the need for the electoral commission (CENI) to ensure transparency in the elections.

The European Union initially planned to send around 80 observers to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the upcoming elections but has reduced this number to eight due to security concerns and technical constraints. The decision has been met with mixed reactions from local organizations, who emphasize the importance of independent observation despite the reduced numbers. The new mission will consist of experts in various fields, and their findings will be reported directly to the EU. The Congolese electoral commission (CENI) is urged to ensure transparency in the election process.

Gambia is debating the potential reintroduction of female genital mutilation nearly a decade after its ban. Human rights organizations and activists, including Jaha Dukureh and Fatou Baldeh, strongly oppose the proposed legislation, fearing it would reverse years of progress. Amnesty International's Michele Eken warns that passing the law would be disastrous for women's rights in Gambia and the region. The proposal, initiated by MP Almameh Gibba, has been sent to a national parliamentary committee for further debate and could be voted on in the coming weeks.