SOUTH SUDAN TODAY

BREAKING NEWS
Veteran Kenyan Politician Raila Odinga Dies at 80 in India

Nairobi / Kochi, October 15, 2025 — Raila Amolo Odinga, one of Kenya’s most influential and enduring political figures, has died at the age of 80. The news was confirmed by hospital officials in Kerala, India, where he was travelling for medical treatment. 

Sudden Collapse, Confirmed Death

Odinga collapsed while on a morning walk with family members, a personal doctor, and security personnel, in the Indian state of Kerala.  He was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Kochi, but medical staff were unable to revive him.  Hospital authorities later confirmed his death, citing a cardiac arrest as the cause. 

Local police in Kerala corroborated the collapse and hospital transfer.  Kenyan officials and Odinga’s political team also confirmed the grim news. 

Political Legacy and Impact

Raila Odinga’s life was deeply woven into Kenya’s modern political landscape:
• He served as Prime Minister under a power-sharing agreement from 2008 to 2013. 
• He stood as a presidential candidate on multiple occasions — often narrowly defeated, and sometimes amid contentious or disputed elections. 
• His activism was central to Kenya’s struggle for democratic reforms, pushing for multiparty politics and constitutional change. 
• In 2025, Odinga made a bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission, but lost to Mahamoud Ali Youssouf. 

Supporters often called him “Baba” (father), a term of affection and respect that underscored his symbolic stature in Kenyan politics. 

Nationwide Mourning and Condolences

In Kenya, President William Ruto immediately declared a seven-day national mourning period, ordering flags to be flown at half mast and urging citizens to observe the moment with solemn respect. 

Across Africa and beyond, the reaction has been swift and solemn:
• African Union Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf called Odinga “a towering figure in Kenya’s political life and a steadfast champion of democracy.” 
• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness, remembering Odinga as a beloved friend and visionary statesman. 
• Other leaders from Tanzania, Zambia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and elsewhere paid tribute, noting Odinga’s role as a Pan-Africanist and voice for democratic governance. 

In Kenya, mourning has already spilled into the streets — supporters gathering at his Nairobi residence, and elsewhere in the country, lighting candles and laying flowers. 

Questions Ahead and Political Aftermath

Odinga’s death opens many questions and challenges for Kenya:
• Succession in the Opposition: As a long-time leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and a focal point for opposition politics, his absence leaves a vacuum. Who will emerge to take up that mantle?
• Power Dynamics with the Government: Odinga had in recent years held a complex relationship with President Ruto’s administration, sometimes adversarial, sometimes cooperative. How the balance of power may shift remains to be watched.
• Impact on Reform Movements: Odinga was a unifying figure in many reform movements. Without him, will momentum slow, or will new voices rise to take new directions?
• State Funeral, Legacy Preservation, and National Healing: Authorities will need to organize state-level arrangements for his funeral, memorialization, and possibly erect monuments to safeguard his memory.

Final Thoughts

Raila Odinga’s death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics. Over decades, he embodied resilience, opposition, and the drive toward democratic ideals. While he never fully attained Kenya’s presidency, his influence surpassed many who held that office. Now, in death as in life, he commands the nation’s attention, grief, and reflection.

His passing not only closes a chapter for Kenyan politics — it challenges the next generation to carry forward the principles he championed: equity, justice, and inclusive governance.

Madagascar Faces Attempted Power Seizure as Military Unit Declares Control

Antananarivo, Madagascar — The office of President Andry Rajoelina says an illegal attempt to seize power is underway in Madagascar, as tensions escalate amid weeks of protests over poor living conditions and political discontent.

In a statement on Sunday, the presidency denounced what it called “an attempt to seize power by force in violation of the Constitution and democratic principles.” President Rajoelina, whose whereabouts remain unclear, urged the nation’s key institutions to unite in defending “constitutional order and national sovereignty.”

Military Unit Claims Control

Hours after the presidential statement, an army faction known as the Special Intervention Force (CAPSAT) announced that it had taken command of Madagascar’s military, including land, air, and naval forces.

CAPSAT’s defection marks a major development, as the unit played a pivotal role in the 2009 political crisis that propelled Rajoelina to power.

On its official page, CAPSAT declared Gen. Demosthene Pikulas as the new army chief of staff—a move reportedly endorsed by Armed Forces Minister Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo, who said, “I give him my blessing” during a ceremony confirming the appointment.

Protests Gain Momentum

The attempted power shift follows a wave of youth-led demonstrations that began on 25 September, initially sparked by severe water and power cuts. The protests have since expanded to reflect widespread frustration with corruption, unemployment, and rising living costs under Rajoelina’s administration.

For the second consecutive day, crowds filled May 13 Square—a symbolic site of past uprisings in Antananarivo. One protester told the BBC, “We’ve finally conquered May 13 Square—the Square of Democracy. We won’t stop until President Rajoelina resigns.”

CAPSAT troops reportedly joined protesters over the weekend, condemning violence by other security units. Gunfire was reported at a CAPSAT camp on both Saturday and Sunday, with one soldier confirmed dead.

International Response and Flight Suspensions

Air France has suspended all flights to Antananarivo until at least Tuesday, citing the deteriorating security situation. The African Union expressed “deep concern” and called for calm and dialogue between all sides.

The UN Human Rights Office has urged security forces to avoid “unnecessary and disproportionate force.” UN human rights chief Volker Türk said at least 22 people have been killed and 100 injured in recent clashes, though the government insists only 12 people died, describing them as “looters and vandals.”

Political and Economic Context

Madagascar, home to 30 million people, has endured recurring political crises since independence in 1960. Rajoelina, a former DJ and businessman, first rose to power in 2009 following mass protests that toppled then-President Marc Ravalomanana.

He ruled until 2014 and returned to the presidency after winning the 2018 election and securing re-election in 2023.

Despite abundant natural resources, the World Bank reports that three-quarters of Malagasy citizens live below the poverty line, and only one-third of the population has access to electricity, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Youth-Led Movement Gains Symbolic Strength

The current protest movement, known as Gen Z Mada, has drawn strength from social media, using the skull-with-straw-hat emblem from the Japanese manga One Piece—a symbol of defiance also adopted by youth protests in Indonesia and Peru.

As uncertainty looms over the president’s status and the military’s divided loyalties, Madagascar once again stands at a political crossroads—its fragile democracy tested by a new generation demanding change.

Create Cinematic AI Animations for FREE! 🤯 #viralvideo #animation #trendingnow . ✨For The Free Tool Comment “TOOL” 👀 . ✨Like, Share & Follow The Nawaz Shaikh for more! . 🚨 ai animation, Ronaldo animation, runway ml , kling, pika labs, food ai animation, Pixar animation, cartoon ai animation . [ Marketing, Branding, Facebook ads, faceless videos, content creation, e-commerce, drop shipping, shopify, ai tools, ai tips, ai money, Tshirt business, printing on demand business, animation ai tools, animation ai, affiliate, dropshipping, Drop shipping, Amazon products, Amazon finds, video editing, video Edittor, capcut India, capcut free, capcut Edittor, capcut, ai videos, animal ai , animal ai animation, banana animation ai ] . . #nawazshaikh #digitalmarketing #branding #marketing #instagramgrowth #socialmedia #instagramtips #viralvideos #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #businesstips #videoeditor #videoedits #Capcut #Capcutpro #motivation #ai #artificialintelligence #aitools #aitips #contentcreator #facebookviral #trendingreelsvideo #AI #millionviews #beauty #techreels #followme #trend #viralreels #fypシ゚ #smm

Diplomatic Pressure Mounts on South Sudan for Clarity Over Oil Revenues, Salaries

Juba, — South Sudan’s finance minister, Athiang Diing Athian, convened a meeting Thursday with the British and Norwegian ambassadors who urged the government to adopt greater transparency in oil income and public fund management. 

The focus of the discussions was on the ex*****on of the national budget, ensuring prompt salary payments to civil servants and security forces, and resolving outstanding arrears. The envoys emphasized that these issues must be addressed against a backdrop of persistent global concerns about corruption and weak accountability in the country. 

South Sudan’s economy remains heavily dependent on oil, which constitutes most of its government revenue. Meanwhile, earnings from non-oil sectors are minimal and opaque.  Although the country is reported to produce 30 to 40 tons of gold annually, these proceeds rarely appear in the public budget. 

In public statements following the meeting, the diplomats laid out specific demands. Norwegian Ambassador Roar Haugsdal called for:
• Full transparency on all revenue streams and how funds are allocated
• Clear reporting of salary payments and arrears
• Credible quarterly budget ex*****on reports
• Disclosure of liabilities from oil-backed loans and their fiscal impact
• Progress in shifting toward a centralized national accounts system 

The U.K. Ambassador, David Ashley, noted that his government would assume co-chairmanship of the oversight committee from Norway. He warned that as international aid to South Sudan declines, efficient public financial management becomes even more critical.  “It’s very important that South Sudan uses effectively the resources it has, including oil revenue,” Ashley affirmed. He added that Minister Athian had expressed support for the oversight body’s objectives. 

“Perpetrators of genocide must be held accountable under international law,” said Türkiye’s President Erdogan at the UN General Assembly, describing Israel’s actions in Gaza as a modern army waging war against innocent civilians.

Brenda Biya, daughter of Cameroon's president, Paul Biya, has publicly urged Cameroonians not to vote for her father in the October 2025 election. In a TikTok live session, Brenda—known as "King Nasty"—blamed her father's 43-year rule for poverty, unemployment, and stagnation in Cameroon. This marks the first time in African political history that a sitting president's child has openly opposed their parent's rule and actively discouraged voters from voting for their parent. Paul Biya, 92, is one of the world’s longest-serving leaders. His presidency has been marked by allegations of authoritarianism, corruption, and contested elections. However, critics say that Brenda, who lives abroad in luxury, has had a strained relationship with her family, raising questions about whether her views reflect the realities faced by most Cameroonians.

27 South Sudanese Herders Detained in Ethiopia for Crossing Border with Arms

Juba, South Sudan — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has confirmed that 27 South Sudanese cattle herders from Eastern Equatoria are currently detained in Ethiopia. The herders were apprehended after inadvertently crossing the international border while armed.

Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated that the herders were carrying weapons as part of their pastoral activities. Upon crossing into Ethiopian territory, they were detained by local authorities.

The South Sudanese Embassy in Addis Ababa is actively engaging with Ethiopian officials to facilitate the herders’ release and ensure their safe return to South Sudan.

This incident underscores the challenges faced by nomadic communities in border regions, where traditional movement patterns often intersect with international boundaries.

Foreign Ministry to Downsize Missions by Presidential Order

Juba, South Sudan — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is preparing to reduce staffing levels across its foreign missions, in a cost-cutting effort ordered by President Salva Kiir. Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen, the ministry’s spokesperson, confirmed the plan during a media briefing on Thursday, September 11.

The reduction in personnel is intended to ease the financial burden on South Sudan’s embassies and consulates abroad. Ambassador Apuk described the downsizing process as an internal administrative move driven by the President’s directive, adding that the ministry is currently planning how to implement the reductions.

Despite the cuts, Ambassador Apuk reassured the public that the core duties of the foreign missions will remain intact. These include maintaining diplomatic relationships, protecting the rights and welfare of South Sudanese citizens overseas, and preserving South Sudan’s global engagement.

While the primary aim is budget savings, the ministry emphasized its continued dedication to providing services to its citizens abroad and ensuring that its diplomatic presence remains strong and effective.

“Seven Years On: Ceasefire Chair Urges Dialogue to Protect Peace Gains”

Juba, South Sudan — As the 2018 peace agreement approaches its seventh anniversary, Major General Teshome Anagaw Ayana—the Chairperson of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM)—is warning that recent escalations in violence threaten to undo years of fragile progress.

In a statement to Eye Radio, Major General Teshome praised the peace deal as a historic milestone that brought an end to years of conflict. But he expressed concern over alarming patterns in recent months: repeated breaches of the ceasefire by signatory parties, attacks across multiple regions resulting in civilian deaths, destruction of villages, and the mass displacement of people. Key elements of the agreement have been disregarded—troop cantonment sites meant to separate conflicting forces have been abandoned, and plans for a unified security force are largely stalled.

Major General Teshome reiterated that the path forward lies in honoring the terms of the agreement in full and returning to dialogue. “War harms the communities and families of South Sudan, and dialogue will always be the best way to resolve conflict,” he said. He emphasized the need to protect the compromises made in 2018—“it is the only agreement that exists and for the sake of the people of South Sudan it must be implemented.”

Breaking News: First Vice President to Face Trial on Murder, Treason, and Crimes Against Humanity

Juba, South Sudan — In a stunning announcement, the Minister of Justice has declared that the First Vice President and several other detainees will be brought to trial imminently, facing an array of the most serious charges under national and international law.

The charges include murder, conspiracy, common intention, treason, and financing terrorist activities. Authorities further accuse the group of destroying public and military properties and inciting violence in Nasir County.

The trial, which officials say will be open to the public, is expected to begin within days. If convicted, the accused could face the harshest penalties under the law.

This unprecedented development marks one of the most significant legal and political showdowns in South Sudan’s history, with both domestic and international observers certain to closely monitor proceedings.

"We don't yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy."

Former President Barack Obama spoke out after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at a speaking event at Utah Valley University.

Headline: Appeals Court Pauses Ruling Striking Down Use of Federal Troops in Los Angeles

By Kevin Shalvey, Alexandra Hutzler, and Ivan Pereira — September 10, 2025

Washington, D.C. — Late Tuesday evening, a federal appeals court issued a stay on a previous ruling that had declared the Trump administration’s deployment of federal troops in Los Angeles for law enforcement operations to be unlawful. The court’s decision means that the contested actions by federal forces may continue while the case remains under review, without making determinations regarding the merits of either side’s arguments .

Simultaneously, a federal judge blocked President Trump’s effort to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook from her position. This development comes just a week before the Federal Reserve’s upcoming meeting, scheduled to begin on September 16 .

The White House has also expanded immigration enforcement efforts to cities nationwide, including Chicago, which is reportedly bracing for potential federal intervention .