My Week in News Review: The Elections are Upon Us

As the elections approached and passed in various African countries, one thing was quite clear: the electorate were skeptical about the veracity of the election process. Some had lost complete hope in it. To be honest, those sentiments are shared right here in Nigeria. Sometimes I wonder what exactly is wrong with the black man. Why are Africans so self-sabotaging?

This week, Tanzania held its elections. After much protests, President Samia Suluhu Hassan returned successful, winning 98% of the votes. It is worth pointing out that this was her first time at the polls as she previously assumed power following the death of President John Magufuli. However, many, particularly the youths, question the correctness of the results. There has been reports of widespread violence in Tanzania following the results and during the run-up to the elections.

Also in the news, Paul Biya emerges President of Cameroon… again. I especially like this headline: The 92-year-old President who Never Loses. Isn’t it just apt? President Biya has been in office for over 40 years, now. Some people allege that this tenure would be different, seeing that it may likely be his last. But really, those are just assumptions. More so, while voters fraud has been claimed, the results are now official. Meaning, there is nothing anyone can truly do about it. So, when life gives you lemons…

Furthermore, I got to learn about illicit gold trade in Ghana. What I did not know was the impact it had on the environment and locals of the affected society. Some even suggest that galamsey (illegal mining) could be funding extremist violence in Ghana. Interestingly, the locals say that the cost of legal mining is quite high, bearing in mind the tedious process of getting a license and renewing it. They also complain that when licenses are given to the Chinese, the locals in the community are not the ones being employed to mine. This made me wonder if legal reforms could be made. My philosophy is this: while unlawful actions may not be fully eradicated, they could at least be reduced. If the laws are geared towards protecting and supporting the locals of the affected communities, I imagine that there would be a reduction in galamsey.

Lastly, Rivers State lost one of our very own, Pastor Nkechi Ene. She was a woman I admired from afar. My mother also listened to her sermons, when I was younger. So, for the life she lived and the people she impacted, I celebrate her, today. Rest in peace, Ma.