Headline News

19, January 2024

North Korea conducts ‘underwater nuclear weapons system’ test ⁰

North Korea says it has carried out a test of its “underwater nuclear weapons system” in response to drills by the US, South Korea and Japan this week.

The test of its supposedly nuclear-armed underwater drones took place off its east coast, state media reported.

The North has claimed tests of its “Haeil-5-23” system before but the weapons have never been independently verified.

South Korea and allies have yet to respond to the latest provocation.

But it comes as the North has ramped up military action in recent weeks, including claiming to have deployed a new solid-fuelled intermediate-range ballistic missile on Sunday.

That followed live-fire drills at the maritime border with South Korea in the first week of January.

Pyongyang leader Kim Jong Un has also been increasingly aggressive in his policy direction and rhetoric – ending several agreements aimed at peace-keeping in recent months.

On Friday, North Korea said it had been provoked by joint drills by Washington, Seoul and Tokyo to carry out a test of its underwater weapons, according to a report by state agency KCNA.

It accused the exercises of “further destabilising the regional situation” and threatening the North’s security.

The US, South Korea and Japan say they have conducted more exercises in the past year as a deterrence response to the increasing frequency of North Korea’s military actions, which include multiple tests of its nuclear ballistic missiles and launches of new weapons. All such actions are in breach of UN sanctions.

But Mr Kim has repeatedly said his regime is building up its military arsenal in preparation for war that could “break out at any time” on the peninsula.

Over the New Year period, he signalled some fundamental policy shifts in his regime’s stance to South Korea.

And earlier this week he declared the former bedrock goal of re-unification with South Korea was over, designating the South as the “principle enemy”.

The rhetoric follows several claimed advances in his country’s military and nuclear capabilities – including in its underwater operations.

Source: BBC

19, January 2024

Biya’s Oppressive Reign: A call for liberation by the Cameroonian people ⁰

Yaoundé, the nation’s capital is currently hosting a 91-year-old figurehead known as the “head of state,” Paul Biya. Biya commands a reputation of unrelenting tyranny, orchestrating several internal suppressions and also fostering instability throughout Southern Cameroons. His regime’s genocidal campaign in Southern Cameroons has sown discord and has earned Biya global recognition as a heartless dictator.

Cameroon is reeling under a ruthless crackdown on dissent, political assassinations are reinforcing the image of a despotic ruler and allegations of the regime’s secret service killing of journalists is underscoring Biya’s oppressive tactics, painting him as an adversary to the Cameroonian people.

The Biya Francophone inhumane acts including his recent appointment of the late Professor Joseph Owona’s son as rector of the University of Yaoundé are perceived as strategies to maintain power for his ruling Beti-Bulu tribes while plunging the nation into a dark and shameful era. Despite this oppressive climate, various segments of the Cameroonian society including the Holy Roman Catholic Church persist in their pursuit of freedom and justice. Their resistance, though challenged, serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to a fairer society.

Several damning reports by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International offers a chilling glimpse into Biya’s brutal tactics, particularly in targeting and torturing Southern Cameroons detainees. These revelations highlight the depth of the Yaoundé regime’s atrocities and demand urgent international attention and accountability for these gross human rights violations.

Revelations about staggering corruption, exemplified by the looting of billions of CFA Franc by top military barons, shed light on the pervasive corruption entrenched within the government. This corruption, compounded by repression, crime, and ongoing looting, reflects the dire need for a regime change in Yaoundé and immediate introduction of democratic and rights-based governance.

Liberation can only come through a shift to a new United Republic of Cameroon—one that respects human rights and democratic principles. The only plausible solution appears to be the overthrow of this Biya regime, get Cameroonians out of darkness and misery, and usher in an era of freedom and progress.

The oppressive grip of the Biya Franceophone Beti Bulu regime has cast a shadow over Cameroon, perpetuating a narrative of tyranny, corruption, and human rights abuses. Despite the regime’s iron-fisted tactics, the resilience and unwavering commitment of segments of Cameroonian society to justice and freedom stand as a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.

The recent journalist Martinez Zogo affair underscores the urgent need for systemic change—one free from the shackles of oppression and corruption.

The journey toward liberation may be arduous, but the determination of the Cameroonian populace to strive for a just and free society remains unyielding. The world’s attention must remain focused on the plight of both French and English speaking Cameroonians and their quest for fundamental rights, ensuring that their voices resonate on the global stage and demanding accountability for the egregious violations committed under Biya’s rule.

By Isong Asu

Cameroon Concord News Group

London Bureau Chief

18, January 2024

AFCON: Egypt rally twice for Ghana draw after Salah injury blow ⁰

Egypt twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday after losing captain Mohamed Salah to injury in the first half.

Mohammed Kudus scored both goals for Ghana, drilling in the opener from 20 metres soon after Salah went off in the Group B clash at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium.

Omar Marmoush pounced on an error to equalise for Egypt midway through the second half, but Kudus struck again right away to restore Ghana’s lead.

The Black Stars were left to rue another mistake as Mostafa Mohamed levelled on 74 minutes, leaving Ghana with just one point from two matches.

Egypt are only one point better off after back-to-back draws, but their immediate concern will be the health of Salah — whose stoppage-time penalty had snatched a 2-2 draw with Mozambique.

Ghana have now won just one of their last 11 AFCON matches. They were stunned 2-1 in their first game by Cape Verde, the smallest nation in the tournament who can clinch a last-16 place and top spot in the group with victory over Mozambique on Friday.

Chris Hughton made three changes to his Ghana side as he recalled Kudus and Spain-born striker Inaki Williams, knowing another loss would leave them staring at a second successive first-round exit.

The past four AFCON meetings between the countries had yielded just five goals, a trend that looked set to continue in a quiet first half in which Emam Ashour’s 43rd-minute shot was the first on target.

Salah goes off

Moments later though Egypt lost their talisman Salah and then almost immediately fell behind.

The Liverpool forward slumped to the grass as Ghana countered-attacked, clutching the back of his left leg and resigned to the fact his night at the very least was over.

With Egypt still reeling from the loss of Salah, it was Ghana’s key man Kudus who seized the spotlight, shifting the ball away from a couple of defenders and rifling a left-footed drive into the near corner.

The West Ham attacking midfielder missed the Cape Verde loss through injury, but here he demonstrated how central he is to the Black Stars’ fading hopes of a fifth AFCON title — 42 years after they last won the trophy.

Kudus volleyed an effort into the ground and just over the crossbar before Ahmed Hegazi, who took over the armband from Salah, had a goal ruled out for offside early in the second half.

Marmoush forced Richard Ofori to tip over a stinging attempt, but Egypt took advantage of a Ghana lapse to draw level on 69 minutes.

Williams hit an ill-advised backpass that was pounced upon by Marmoush, who nervelessly rounded Ofori and slotted home.

Kudus put Ghana in front again two minutes later after receiving Denis Odoi’s pass in the area, with his shot glancing off Mohamed Abdelmonem and deceiving Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.

Ghana were the architects of their own downfall once more though.

Substitute Osman Bukari was caught in possession in his own box, allowing Mahmoud Trezequet to nip in and pull the ball back for Mohamed to steer between the legs of Ofori.

Ashour nearly snatched victory at the death but his curling attempt was held well by Ofori, sparing Ghana from another defeat and keeping them in contention for the knockout phase.

Source: AFP

18, January 2024

Yaoundé: Biya, CAR FM discuss bilateral ties ⁰

President Paul Biya held a meeting with visiting Foreign Minister of the Central African Republic (CAR) Sylvie Baipo-Temon on Tuesday, during which the two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties.

“The Central African Republic and Cameroon maintain excellent relations. We have very strong fraternal links and are good neighbors,” Baipo-Temon told reporters after the meeting in the Cameroonian capital city of Yaounde.

She conveyed best wishes from CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera to his Cameroonian counterpart and the people of Cameroon.

The two sides also exchanged views on the stability and development of the Central African region, according to a statement from the Cameroonian presidency.

Source: Xinhuanet

17, January 2024

British Royals hit by double health scare as King and Kate need hospital treatment ⁰

King Charles III is set to attend hospital next week for treatment for an enlarged prostate.

Buckingham Palace said the King’s condition is benign but he will undergo a “corrective procedure”.

The 75 year old’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation, the Palace said.

The announcement comes shortly after it was revealed the Princess of Wales is in hospital after undergoing abdominal surgery.

It is unusual for medical updates about two senior royals to be released on the same day, but it is understood it was necessary because the King had to cancel engagements scheduled for Thursday.

He had been due to meet foreign dignitaries and cabinet members in Scotland on Thursday, but those meetings have been cancelled on medical grounds.

It is also thought the King was keen to share his diagnosis with the public to encourage other men who may be experiencing symptoms to get checked.

“In common with thousands of men each year, the King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” the statement said.

Benign prostate enlargement – which is non-cancerous – is common in men over 50 and is not usually a serious condition, according to the NHS website.

Around one in three men over the age of 50 will have some symptoms of an enlarged prostate, which is a gland that sits just below the bladder.

While it is not usually a serious threat to health, it can cause symptoms and problems, including difficulty passing urine or emptying the bladder.

The condition does not mean the patient has an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. The NHS has published guidance on how it is treated.

Source: BBC

17, January 2024

One Cameroonian peacekeeper killed, five wounded in Central African Republic ⁰

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attack perpetrated on 15 January against the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) in Mbindale through an explosive device, following which one peacekeeper from Cameroon was killed and five wounded.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest condolences and sympathy to the family of the peacekeeper killed, as well as to Cameroon. They also expressed their condolences to the United Nations. They wished a speedy and full recovery to the peacekeepers injured.

The members of the Security Council reiterated that attacks against peacekeepers may constitute war crimes and reminded all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law. They called on the Government of the Central African Republic to swiftly investigate this attack with the support of MINUSCA, promote accountability for such acts by bringing perpetrators to justice, and keep the relevant troop-contributing country informed of the progress consistent with Security Council resolutions 2518 (2020) and 2589 (2021). They stressed that involvement in planning, directing, sponsoring or conducting attacks against MINUSCA peacekeepers constitutes a basis for sanctions designations pursuant to United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The members of the Security Council expressed particular concern about reports of illicit transnational trafficking networks which continue to fund and supply armed groups in the Central African Republic, noted in particular the increasing use of explosive ordnances, including improvised explosive devices and landmines, which account for a growing number of civilian casualties, as well as the destruction of civilian properties and continue to disrupt humanitarian access. They stressed the need to further investigate and combat this threat.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support for MINUSCA and expressed their deep appreciation to MINUSCA’s troop- and police-contributing countries.

The members of the Security Council further stressed the importance of MINUSCA having the necessary capacities to fulfil its mandate and promote the safety and security of the United Nations peacekeepers, pursuant to Security Council resolution 2709 (2023).

The members of the Security Council reiterated their strong support for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic, Valentine Rugwabiza, and for MINUSCA to assist the Central African Republic authorities and the people of the Central African Republic in their efforts to bring lasting peace and stability, as mandated by the Security Council in resolution 2709 (2023).

Source: Miragenews

17, January 2024

Indomitable Lions: Onana already becoming big distraction ⁰

Cameroon’s biggest star, Andre Onana, is already becoming a distraction to the Indomitable Lions less than one week into the Cote 20243 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Manchester United goalkeeper opted to stay and play with the Red Devils against Tottenham at the weekend instead of joining Rigobert Song’s team as was the case with other members of the squad ahead of their opening game against Guinea. And then there was the anxiety caused by news of the issues his chartered plane had with Ivoirian authorities, which kept everybody, including Cameroon team officials, scampering for a positive resolution of matters.

After that, Onana got angry with Cameroonian officials when he realised that he would not be used in the game against Guinea. He had to be restrained by Senegal legend, El Hadji Diouf, when he became agitated with Song for keeping him out of the team. He was supposedly heard shouting: “If I wasn’t going to play or make the team, then why did I come here on a private jet?”

According to reports, poor weather conditions meant he was unable to land in Yamoussoukro – where Cameroon were playing on Monday – and had to divert to Abidjan.

Onana was then forced to drive the final 150 miles and eventually arrived three hours before kickoff and knew that he wouldn’t be starting the game but was shocked to see that Devis Epassy and Simon Ngapandouetnbu had been named ahead of him on the bench.

Song has had a fractured relationship with Onana in the past and the 27-year-old only returned to the international scene towards the end of last year after he retired in response to being sent home from the World Cup early.

Song meanwhile played down the significance of Onana’s absence, saying: “‘It’s logical, he arrived at 4 o’clock in the morning. How do you want him to play?”Their opening game saw them held to a 1-1 draw against Guinea.

Source: The Guardian.ng

17, January 2024

Nigeria: Ibadan blast blamed on illegal miners in Oyo ⁰

A deadly blast that rocked the Nigerian city of Ibadan overnight was caused by explosives stored by illegal mingers, the Oyo state governor has said.

Two people were killed and 77 others injured in the explosion that has affected seven suburbs of Nigeria’s third most-populous city.

Crowds have thronged the site of the blast as rescue efforts continue.

A man whose mother’s home was destroyed says she was in bed at the time of the blast and is now in hospital.

“The roof and everything went down. She was inside in her bed when it happened. She was rushed to the hospital naked and I’m going there now,” he told the BBC as he was rushing to see her.

Buildings have been reduced to near rubble at the site of the blast and vehicles destroyed. Further away from the blast zone, windows have been blown out of houses and rooftops damaged.

Eyewitnesses say the explosion happened at around 19:45 local time (18:45 GMT) in Bodija, a residential district of district of the city.

It was heard across the city of Ibadan, the capital of south-western Oyo state.

One of the onlookers at the scene is a painter who had been working at one of the buildings that collapsed. He turned up to work in the morning and is unable to find his boss.

“I have been calling him but the number is not connecting and I saw that his vehicle has been destroyed,” he told the BBC.

Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde posted a statement on Facebook promising that those responsible would be “brought to book”.

“I have directed that the medical bills of all victims be covered by the government,” he said.

“We will also be providing temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected and ensuring that they are supported to rebuild their lives.”

Source: BBC

17, January 2024

Danish monarch publishes a book three days into reign ⁰

Three days after becoming the king of Denmark, Frederik X has published a book seemingly out of nowhere.

The book has come as a surprise to Danes, and media outlets have been hastily live-blogging lines from it.

“The King’s Word” promises Frederik’s thoughts on topics including Denmark’s place in the world and his relationship with his wife, Queen Mary.

Frederik was crowned king on Sunday after his mother, Margrethe II, abdicated on New Year’s Eve.

The book costs up to 250 Danish Krone (£29; €33.50) and is around 110 pages long.

The book was based on interviews conducted over the past year-and-a-half

It was written with Jens Andersen, who authored Frederik’s 2017 biography, and is based on interviews conducted over the last year-and-a-half.

In one section, Frederik says that, as a child, he had difficulty accepting he would become King of Denmark, saying he “just wanted to be like all other boys of my age”.

“I remember my 18th birthday as something similar to the end of the world. It was the feeling that now everything that was fun and exciting was coming to an end. Fortunately, it didn’t,” Frederik says.

Later in the book, the king also reportedly discusses his faith, saying that he and his Australian-born wife say prayers with their children every evening.

He also talks about family life, saying that his father – the late Prince Henrik of Denmark, who died in 2018 – was “very patriarchal” and “tried to pass that pattern on to his two sons”.

Frederik says: “I have learned a lot from having a wife who, from time to time, reminds me that of course I am not always right, and that my words are not automatically believed, just because I am a man in the house.”

Tens of thousands of people turned out to watch King Frederik X succeed his mother as the monarch of Denmark on Sunday.

Blinking back tears, Frederik told a cheering crowd outside Christiansborg Castle in Copenhagen that he hoped to become “a unifying king” for the future.

His mother, Margarethe II, abdicated after 52 years on the throne.

Source: BBC

16, January 2024

Song says Onana’s absence from Guinea game is logical ⁰

After a grueling effort to reach the Africa Cup of Nations on time, Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana failed to make the Cameroon squad for the five-time champions’ opening game.

Onana was omitted from Coach Rigobert Song’s squad for the 1-1 draw against Guinea on Monday, despite the player’s rush from England to reach the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro on time.

“It’s logical. He arrived at 4 o’clock in the morning. How do you want him to play?” Song said after the game. The coach added: “He’s part of the group.”

Onana had played for United on Sunday, in a 2-2 draw with visiting Tottenham in the Premier League, then flew to Abidjan in Ivory Coast. From there the player had reported difficulties getting another flight to Yamoussoukro, forcing him to make the journey by road instead.

Such a trip would normally take 2½ hours, but heavy traffic in Abidjan and traffic restrictions imposed by police for Africa Cup security measures mean most journeys during the tournament face delays.

Onana quit the national team after he was sent home from the 2022 World Cup following a dispute with Song, but returned after apparently winning back the coach’s favor.

Source: AP