Politics and Power
54 articles
Turkish intelligence chief brokers rare Libya unity talks in Ankara
In a pivotal Ankara meeting, Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin brought together Libya's rival parliamentary leaders for direct talks on unifying Libya's fractured institutions and advancing stalled elections, signaling a potential shift in the country's deadlocked political landscape.
Algeria reverses school reforms days before academic year begins
Algeria's government has abruptly scrapped sweeping school timetable and curriculum changes just weeks before the new term, forcing educators to revert to a two-decade-old system and exposing the presidency's direct grip over education policy.
Qatar steps into Libya power struggle with new mediation push
Qatar is intensifying its diplomatic engagement in Libya, meeting rival leaders in Tripoli and Benghazi to support a fragile UN-backed election plan. The move exposes deep institutional rifts and raises the stakes for regional influence in North Africa.
Turkey courts Haftar as Libya power balance shifts toward pragmatic deals
Turkey is now engaging directly with Khalifa Haftar after years of backing his rivals, seeking to entrench its interests in both eastern and western Libya as Washington pushes for a unified government. The move signals a new phase of competitive diplomacy and economic positioning.
Morocco's Left Alliance unveils $53 billion plan for sweeping social reforms
Morocco's Left Alliance has launched a $53 billion election program promising 431 measures, including a unified minimum wage and expanded social support, as rival parties escalate spending pledges ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections.
Ceuta leader demands EU action as migrant influx overwhelms city
Ceuta's president Juan Jesús Vivas has broken with Madrid and urged the EU to confront Morocco and fund urgent border security, warning that the Spanish exclave faces collapse after 80,000 migrants entered in a single day and over 150 died at sea.
UN Security Council backs Libya election deal as fragile trust tests progress
Libya's rival political blocs have struck a UN-brokered deal to overhaul the elections commission and set a two year deadline for national polls. The UN Security Council is urging rapid implementation but warns that public trust and women's participation remain at risk.
Tunisian journalists rally as Mohamed Yousfi faces charges over critical reporting
The arrest of Mohamed Yousfi, editor of Al-Qatiba, has triggered protests in Tunis and drawn condemnation from rights groups, as journalists warn that fabricated charges are being used to silence critical reporting under President Kais Saied.
Greece and Denmark back Morocco autonomy plan for Western Sahara
Greece and Denmark have publicly endorsed Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara, aligning with UN Resolution 2797 and the EU position. Their stance signals a shift in European consensus and opens new channels for economic cooperation with Rabat.
Libya Faces Critical Deadlines as US Support for UN Election Deal Is Tested
Libya's rival political and security factions have signed a UN-brokered agreement to resolve the election deadlock, but the next two months will reveal whether US and international backing translates into real leverage or remains empty rhetoric.
Algeria deploys military power to secure Niger border after coup threat
Algeria has escalated its military involvement in Niger, deploying fighter jets and helicopters to support the junta after a failed coup attempt. The move signals a shift in Algiers' Sahel strategy and raises the stakes for regional security and energy infrastructure.
UN faces pressure to halt resource-driven transformation in Western Sahara
Western Sahara Resource Watch is urging the UN to intervene as Morocco's exploitation of Western Sahara's fisheries, phosphates and renewables accelerates, warning that unchecked economic development risks locking in realities before self-determination is achieved.
Morocco's crackdown on philosophy reshaped education and empowered Islamists
Morocco's campaign to suppress philosophy education under Hassan II fundamentally altered the country's intellectual landscape, clearing the way for conservative and Islamist dominance in schools and leaving a legacy that continues to shape Moroccan society.
Tewassoul Demands Overhaul of Construction Oversight After Maal Tragedy
After a fatal construction collapse in Maal, the Tewassoul party is pressing for sweeping reforms to Mauritania's building oversight, demanding rigorous technical and administrative controls to prevent further loss of life and property.
Algeria targets arsonists and child abductors with new death penalty law
Algeria's government has approved a targeted death penalty for arsonists and child abductors, fast-tracked wildfire compensation, and set new priorities for rail and education. The moves signal a hardening stance on crime and a push to restore state capacity after recent crises.
Tebboune Eyes Madrid Visit as Algeria and Spain Reset Ties
Algeria and Spain are preparing for a pivotal diplomatic reset, with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expected in Madrid this October. Energy exports and migration controls are at stake as both sides seek to move past years of rupture.
Libyan Health Union Warns of Talent Exodus Over Foreign Recruitment
The Health Sector Movement Union has escalated its protest against the Tripoli government's decision to hire 200 Syrian medical professionals on high US dollar salaries, warning this move could accelerate the loss of Libyan healthcare talent and further destabilize the sector.
Benghazi University returns as Libya reopens flagship campus
Benghazi University has reopened after a major reconstruction led by the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund, marking a rare institutional revival in a city scarred by years of conflict and war-related destruction.
Mauritanian Presidential Bloc Delays Naming Supervisory Delegates for National Dialogue
Mauritania's ruling coalition and pro-presidential parties have postponed the selection of their seven representatives to the national dialogue supervisory commission, opting for further internal consultations and expanding their alliance with new party admissions.
Benin rejects Niger destabilisation claims after military unrest in Niamey
Benin's government has forcefully denied Niger's accusations of supporting a failed rebellion in Niamey, insisting on peaceful coexistence and warning that such allegations threaten fragile progress in reopening borders and restoring bilateral ties.
Zawia Power Station Restores Power to Libya After Months of Blackouts
Libya's Zawia Combined-Cycle Power Plant has reconnected its third unit, adding 150 MW to the national grid after months of delays caused by armed attacks and technical setbacks. The move comes amid severe blackouts, public unrest, and sweeping changes at GECOL's leadership.
Algeria Set to Appoint Brahim Hemdani as National Team Head Coach
After months of failed foreign recruitment, Algeria's football federation is poised to name Brahim Hemdani as head coach, with Anthar Yahia as his deputy. The move signals a strategic shift toward local leadership and youth renewal ahead of key continental fixtures.
Tunisia and Germany Seek Reset on Economic and Education Ties
President Kais Saied used a high-profile meeting with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul to demand a fundamental overhaul of Tunisia's economic relationship with Europe, calling for fairer agreements and a shift from debt to investment.
Xi and Al-Sisi Spotlight Civilizational Diplomacy at Grand Egyptian Museum
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi used a high-profile tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum to push for deeper cultural ties and promote the Global Civilization Initiative, signaling a strategic alignment between Cairo and Beijing.
UFP Warns of Rising Pressure on Civil Liberties in Mauritania
Mauritania's Union des forces du progrès has warned that increasing use of the judiciary to suppress free expression and discourage criticism could have serious consequences for public freedoms, as political tensions rise ahead of a possible constitutional change.
Mauritania's Insaf Party Hails Success of Political Tours in Five Regions
Mauritania's ruling Insaf party has declared its recent political missions across five wilayas a major success, citing improved grassroots engagement, strengthened party presence, and a renewed focus on addressing local concerns ahead of future political developments.
Egypt Finalises Arrangements for Xi Jinping's State Visit
Egypt's government has completed preparations for Chinese President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit, aiming to deepen bilateral cooperation and mark 70 years of diplomatic relations. The visit is expected to advance joint projects and investment opportunities.
Algerian Government Pledges Full Wildfire Compensation by 15 September
Algeria's Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb has announced that all citizens affected by recent wildfires will receive full compensation by 15 September, with payments starting next week. The plan prioritises rapid restoration of essential services and aims to address all documented losses.
Mauritania Urges Structural Reforms to Address Root Causes of Conflict
Mauritania's defence minister has called for tackling institutional fragility, poverty, and youth unemployment as essential steps to prevent conflict and build lasting peace in Africa, highlighting the need for stronger governance and inclusive development.
Rassemblement National Reaffirms Plan to Fine Public Wearing of Islamic Veil
France's Rassemblement National has reiterated its intention to introduce fines for wearing the Islamic veil in public if Marine Le Pen wins the 2027 presidential election, reigniting political and legal debate over religious freedoms.
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