Africa
Popular Ghana gospel musician passes
Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, known as Koda, has passed away at the age of 46. Koda was a popular Ghanaian gospel musician and was known for his uplifting songwriting. Reports suggest he passed after suffering from kidney disease. His most popular songs include Nsem Pii and Adooso.
Dozens kidnapped from Mali
At least 100 people were kidnapped by suspected jihadists in Mali last week. Those who were kidnapped were reportedly traveling on buses when the attackers forced them to drive in the direction of a forest. There has been no sign of the hostages as of Monday. Jihadists began attacking northern Mali 10 years ago and have also targeted other countries like Niger.
Asia
Mass flooding in China forces thousands to evacuate
More than 100,000 people were forced to flee their homes in China because of mass flooding. State media reported that four people have died so far, and at least 10 others are missing. The flooding occurred in Guangdong, China’s most populous province. Other buildings like banks have been damaged, and about 1.16 million households lost power over the weekend.
Race car kills seven at motor event in Sri Lanka
Four race officials and spectators were killed at a motor event in Sri Lanka when a race car crashed into the audience. Police said the accident occurred when the car jumped out of the running lane, and two drivers were arrested. The motor event is operated by the Sri Lankan Automobile Sports Association, and among the victims included an eight-year-old girl.
Europe
Polish man arrested over possible assassination attempt
Officials in Poland arrested a man who was allegedly collecting information about an airport used by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. The man, Pawel K, was charged with planning to co-operate with Russia to help with a possible assassination of Zelensky. The suspect is facing up to eight years in prison if found guilty, and an investigation is underway.
Far-right German politician accused of using Nazi slogan
Bjorn Hocke, a leader of the Alternative for Germany party in Thuringia, is going to trial after being accused of using the Nazi slogan, “Everything for Germany!” at a 2021 rally. The slogan was used by the SA stormtroopers who helped the Nazis rise to power. Hocke faces up to three years imprisonment, and prosecutors allege he knew the phrase was banned for its asso- ciation to the Nazi Sturmabteilung.
Latin America
Ecuador votes for tighter security
Ecuador residents voted in favor of allowing military members to patrol streets in an effort to combat gang violence. The country has the highest recorded murder rate in Latin America. Voters also voted for longer prison terms and extraditing violent criminals. Last year, the country recorded nearly 8,000 violent deaths.
Large bank sells Argentina business
HSBC Argentina, a bank with more than 100 branches and 3,100 employees, will be sold to Grupo Financiero Galicia. Argentina has the highest inflation rate in the world, and HSBC has been in Argentina since 1997. The bank has dealt with the country’s unstable exchange rate for years, and last month, annual inflation in Argentina hit 276.2 percent.
North America
Yale students protest war in Gaza
Several protesters at Yale University were arrested during demonstrations against the war in Gaza. At Columbia University, more than 100 people were arrested during similar protests last week. Yale University students have been calling for the university to halt investments in weapon manufacturers. Many universities have said there has been a rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents.
House approves Ukraine aid
The United States House of Representatives approved billions of dollars in military aid for Ukraine. The country will receive around $61 billion to help combat Russia’s invasion. The aid will be used for air defense systems, mid to long-range missiles, artillery shells, and more. It is unknown when the aid will arrive.
