Daily Gist Blog

30/01/2025

Ministry of Information Rejects Recognition of Salone Association of Bloggers

In a surprising turn of events, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOICE) has publicly distanced itself from the recently launched Salone Association of Bloggers (SAB), declaring that it does not recognize the group as a legitimate national entity. This announcement, made by Emmanuel AB Turay, the Director of Information at MOICE, has sparked a heated debate about regulatory compliance and the legitimacy of media-related organizations in Sierra Leone.

Speaking exclusively to Awoko Newspaper, Turay emphasized that the ministry, as the supervisory body for media matters in the country, was not consulted or involved in the formation of the association. He revealed that Joseph Sannoh, the leader of the group and a well-known Senior Citizen, had approached the ministry but failed to follow through with the necessary steps to gain official recognition.

“Sannoh did approach the Minister and the Ministry, but I doubt if he heeded the advice we gave him,” Turay stated. “Even NGOs must go through their line ministry and obtain clearance before operating. You cannot form an association like this without the express knowledge and certification of the Ministry of Information, which oversees media matters.”

The Name Game: Why “Salone” Raises Eyebrows
One of the key issues raised by Turay is the use of the term “Salone” in the association’s name. According to him, this gives the impression that the group is a nationally recognized body, which he argues is misleading.

“When you use the word ‘Sierra Leone,’ it should reflect a national body. Take, for example, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ). They have a constitution, regional executives, and regularly hold elections. Any organization claiming national status must meet similar standards,” Turay explained.

He suggested that a more appropriate name, such as “Progressive Bloggers Association,” could have been considered to avoid misrepresentation. Additionally, Turay raised concerns about the association’s governance structure, questioning whether it has a constitution that reflects national inclusivity.

Questions of Legitimacy and Governance
The Director of Information also pointed out that several bloggers have already distanced themselves from the initiative, further casting doubt on its credibility. “We have seen other bloggers disassociating themselves from the initiative, which raises further questions about its legitimacy,” he noted.

Turay reiterated that all organizations operating in Sierra Leone, especially those dealing with media and civic education, must be officially recognized by the government. This ensures that their activities align with the broader national agenda.

“For example, NGOs dealing with civic education must be officially recognized so that their work supports national objectives rather than operating in isolation,” he explained.

What’s Next for the Salone Association of Bloggers?
The statement from MOICE has left the future of the Salone Association of Bloggers hanging in the balance. Will the group seek official recognition from the ministry? Or will it rebrand and restructure to meet the standards set by the government?

For now, the controversy surrounding SAB serves as a reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance and transparency in the media landscape. As the story unfolds, Fadda247News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on this intriguing saga.

What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you think the Salone Association of Bloggers should rebrand and seek official recognition? Share your opinions in the comments section below!

01/01/2025

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16/08/2024

APC Asserts Temporary Opposition Status, Calls for Direct Government Engagement.

The All People’s Congress (APC) has reaffirmed its position as a legitimate opposition party, emphasizing its right to protest and freely associate while voicing concerns over the government's handling of its activities. In a recent media briefing organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Minority Leader Abdul Kargbo made it clear that the party views its current opposition status as a temporary phase, encapsulated in his statement, “No Condition is Permanent.” This remark highlights the dynamic nature of the political landscape in Sierra Leone.

Kargbo expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to managing APC activities, particularly concerning alleged civil arrests during party events. He urged the government to engage directly with the APC, rather than involving the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to make arrests.

“I have engaged some stakeholders within the government. If issues arise during our activities as a party, the government should contact us directly instead of deploying the CID to make arrests,” Kargbo stated, stressing the need for more transparent and direct communication between the government and the opposition.

The briefing took a heated turn as discussions shifted to the actions of former government officials. Kargbo stood in defence of APC members whose properties were allegedly seized under the Commission of Inquiry, while government spokesperson Alhaji Alpha Khan reiterated the government's commitment to accountability for all officials, regardless of their political affiliations.

This event underscores the ongoing tensions between the APC and the current government, with the APC making it clear that they are prepared to challenge and hold the government accountable while remaining hopeful for a shift in their political standing. The party’s assertion that its role as an opposition party is not permanent suggests a forward-looking stance, anticipating future political opportunities.

16/08/2024

WHO Director-General’s Remarks on the 2024 Mpox Upsurge: A Call for Global Action

Dear members of the Emergency Committee, colleagues, and esteemed friends,

For over a decade, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has faced a persistent and troubling increase in mpox cases, with each passing year bringing more reports of infection. Last year saw a dramatic surge in cases, and the numbers reported so far this year have already surpassed last year’s total. Over 14,000 cases have been recorded, resulting in 524 tragic deaths.

The recent emergence and rapid spread of clade 1b in the DRC, which seems to be primarily transmitted through sexual networks, is particularly alarming. This clade has now been detected in neighboring countries, prompting me to convene this Emergency Committee.

In the past month alone, approximately 90 cases of clade 1b have been reported in four neighboring countries—Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda—where mpox had not been previously reported. This indicates a troubling trend and highlights the complexity of the situation we face. We are not dealing with a single outbreak but multiple outbreaks of different clades, with varying modes of transmission and levels of risk across different regions.

Our response to these outbreaks must be both comprehensive and tailored, with a strong emphasis on community involvement. WHO is collaborating closely with the governments of the affected countries, the Africa CDC, NGOs, civil society, and other partners to understand and address the root causes of these outbreaks.

To support surveillance, preparedness, and response activities, WHO has developed a regional response plan requiring an initial funding of US$ 15 million. We have already released US$ 1.45 million from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies and plan to allocate more funds in the coming days. We are also reaching out to donors to help fully fund this critical response plan.

Two vaccines for mpox are currently recommended by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization and have been approved by national regulatory authorities, including in Nigeria and the DRC. To expedite vaccine access in lower-income countries that have not yet issued their own national regulatory approval, I have initiated the Emergency Use Listing process for mpox vaccines. This will also enable partners like Gavi and UNICEF to procure vaccines for distribution.

We are grateful to Member States and vaccine manufacturers for their collaboration on vaccine donations. WHO is working diligently with all partners to ensure equitable access to diagnostics, vaccines, clinical care supplies, and other essential tools.

Given the expanding outbreak in East and Central Africa, and the potential for further international spread both within and beyond Africa, I have convened this Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (IHR) to advise on whether the current situation constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

When I declared an end to the previous mpox PHEIC last year, I issued standing recommendations under the IHR, which are set to expire next week. I have decided to extend these recommendations for another year to support countries in managing the ongoing risk of mpox.

Should the current situation be deemed a public health emergency of international concern based on your expert advice, I would issue temporary recommendations in line with the IHR.

At this year’s World Health Assembly, WHO Member States adopted a set of amendments to the IHR, which will come into effect next year. For this meeting, however, we will operate under the existing IHR framework.

I want to express my deep gratitude to all of you for dedicating your time and expertise to this critical process. I look forward to receiving your valuable insights and guidance as we navigate this challenging situation together.

16/08/2024

The dimming effects of alcohol: Recent research indicates that even moderate drinking may pose harm to older adults.

In recent years, there has been a growing shift in the perception of alcohol consumption, especially among younger adults. This change is supported by a new study revealing that even low levels of drinking may pose significant health risks, particularly for older adults.

According to a recent Gallup poll, nearly half of Americans—45%—now believe that having one or two alcoholic drinks a day is detrimental to health. This marks a significant increase from previous years and is the highest percentage recorded since the survey's inception in 2001. Notably, younger adults are leading this change in perspective, with 65% of those under 35 agreeing that moderate drinking is unhealthy.

This shifting mindset is further validated by a study published in JAMA Network Open, which examined the health outcomes of over 135,000 adults aged 60 and older. The study found that moderate alcohol consumption, long thought to have potential health benefits, may actually increase the risk of various diseases, including cancer, liver and kidney problems, and depression.

Dr. Timothy Naimi, a leading expert from the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, emphasizes that alcohol is a carcinogen linked to around 50 different types of death. "Overall, alcohol is a health hazard," Naimi asserts, challenging the once popular belief that moderate drinking, especially wine, could be beneficial. "The most consistent finding across all the science is that generally speaking, the less you drink, the better you are off health-wise."

The study categorized participants based on their drinking habits, ranging from occasional to high-risk drinkers. Those who consumed alcohol occasionally—less than 20 grams per week—served as the reference group. For context, a standard drink in the United States contains about 14 grams of alcohol. The research revealed that even low-risk drinkers were about 10% more likely to die from cancer than their occasional drinking counterparts. The risks increased with higher levels of alcohol consumption, with high-risk drinkers being 33% more likely to die from cancer, heart disease, or any other cause.

Interestingly, the study also observed some nuances in the data. For instance, participants who predominantly drank wine or consumed alcohol with meals showed slightly lower risks of cancer and death, despite having similar socioeconomic and health-related risk factors as others. However, Dr. Rosario Ortola, the study’s lead author, cautions against attributing these benefits to alcohol. "It could be that people who drink wine or only drink with meals have other healthy behaviours, such as being physically active, which contribute to these outcomes."

These findings underscore the complexity of alcohol’s effects on health and highlight the need for further research to untangle these relationships. While moderate drinking may be associated with certain lifestyle factors that promote overall well-being, it is not a cause of these benefits. The overarching message remains clear: reducing alcohol consumption is likely to be beneficial for health, especially in older adults.

As society continues to evolve in its understanding of alcohol, this research serves as a critical reminder of the potential risks associated with even moderate drinking. Public health interventions should consider these findings, particularly for vulnerable populations, to help foster healthier communities.

10/08/2024

After Hasina: Cautious Optimism for Bangladesh’s Future

The recent overthrow of Sheikh Hasina marks a historic moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape, driven by a formidable youth movement. However, the path ahead for the country is fraught with significant challenges.

Sheikh Hasina's Rule: A Legacy of Dominance

Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister, was one of South Asia's most entrenched and authoritative leaders. Her tenure was marked by the consolidation of power, where she effectively became synonymous with the state. Under her rule, many of her political rivals were either imprisoned, exiled, or eliminated, showcasing her grip on the nation. However, her rule came to an abrupt end, not by her political rivals, but through a determined and organized movement led by college students.

The Power of Youth-Led Movements

The youth of Bangladesh, under the banner of the “Students Against Discrimination” movement, orchestrated a series of protests that ultimately led to Hasina’s downfall. Initially sparked by grievances over an unfair quota system favouring the relatives of Hasina’s political allies in civil service jobs, the movement quickly gained momentum. The students, many of whom had experienced the brutality of Hasina’s regime during previous protests, were well-prepared. They utilized distributed leadership structures, innovative communication techniques, and a deep understanding of the government’s tactics to mobilize the masses.

Is This the End for Sheikh Hasina?

Sheikh Hasina’s departure is not her first exile. She previously fled the country following a coup that resulted in the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1975. However, her return to power in 2008 after another exile is unlikely to be repeated this time. The widespread resentment and the violence associated with her rule have severely damaged her political standing. Her inglorious exit, amid a mass uprising, leaves little room for a political comeback.

The Challenges Ahead for Bangladesh

Following Hasina’s departure, an interim caretaker government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and a respected figure in Bangladesh, was established. Dr. Yunus, along with a panel of 16 advisers, including prominent civil society figures and student leaders, faces the monumental task of steering the country through a transitional period.

The new government must address the deep-seated issues left behind by Hasina’s regime, including widespread corruption, an entrenched bureaucracy loyal to her, and a military that still bears her influence. This will require a comprehensive overhaul of the state apparatus, including potential arrests and dismissals of key figures from Hasina’s administration.

Geopolitical Dynamics and International Relations

On the international stage, Bangladesh’s new government must navigate complex relationships with its neighbours, India and China. India, a key ally of Hasina, is concerned about the potential instability and the safety of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, balancing relations with China, which has significant business interests in the country, will be crucial. Dr. Yunus’s diplomatic skills will be tested as he attempts to maintain Bangladesh’s sovereignty while addressing the concerns of these powerful neighbours.

The Road to New Elections

Organizing a fair and transparent general election is the primary task for the interim government. However, this process is complicated by the legal and political barriers erected during Hasina’s rule. Many political opponents were sidelined through criminal charges and bans, including key figures from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the Jamaat-e-Islami. Overcoming these obstacles to ensure inclusive participation in the upcoming elections will be essential for restoring democracy in Bangladesh.

Cautious Optimism for the Future

The overthrow of Sheikh Hasina is seen by many as Bangladesh’s second independence, a moment of liberation from decades of autocratic rule. There is a sense of hope and excitement for a better future, but this optimism is tempered by the reality of the challenges that lie ahead. The success of this new chapter in Bangladesh’s history will depend on the ability of the new administration to address the demands of the revolutionaries, manage internal reforms, and navigate external pressures. Only time will tell if this revolution will lead to a more democratic, just, and free Bangladesh.

10/08/2024

10/08/2024

Renewed Calls for U.S. to Halt Support for Israel Following Deadly Gaza School Attack.

In the wake of a devastating Israeli airstrike on a school in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of over 100 Palestinians, there is mounting pressure on the United States to reconsider its unwavering support for Israel, particularly in terms of military aid and weapons transfers. The attack, which took place at al-Tabin school in Gaza City, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for an immediate halt to U.S. arms shipments to Israel, as advocates argue these weapons are fueling atrocities in the region.

On August 10, 2024, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported that more than 100 Palestinians were killed and dozens more injured when Israeli forces targeted the school, which had been serving as a shelter for displaced people amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The incident has drawn harsh criticism from global rights groups and raised serious questions about the ethical implications of U.S. military assistance to Israel.

International Outcry and Domestic Pressure
The attack has intensified calls from rights advocates and public figures in the U.S. to end the supply of weapons to Israel. James Zogby, co-founder and president of the Arab American Institute, voiced his frustration on social media, stating, "The U.S. & allies are claiming a ceasefire is near. But all Palestinians see is more death, dislocation, & despair. The genocide continues... Why are we still sending Israel weapons?”

This sentiment is echoed by a growing number of voices urging President Joe Biden to reconsider U.S. military support, especially in light of reports that U.S.-made bombs, specifically a GBU-39 small diameter bomb, were used in the al-Tabin school attack. Although Al Jazeera could not immediately verify this claim, the implications of such reports are significant, particularly given the public’s increasing scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

The Human Toll and Diplomatic Consequences
The Gaza City school strike has been described as one of the deadliest attacks in recent months, with eyewitnesses and paramedics recounting the horrific scene of "bodies ripped to pieces." Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary, reporting from Khan Younis in southern Gaza, noted that the victims were praying when the airstrikes occurred, leaving survivors in shock and disbelief at the scale of the devastation.

Despite Israel’s claims that Hamas fighters were operating from within the school, there has been no concrete evidence provided to support these allegations. Meanwhile, U.S. officials, including National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett, have called for a ceasefire and measures to minimize civilian casualties, but critics argue that these statements are insufficient without concrete action to curb the flow of U.S. arms to Israel.

A Renewed Push for Policy Change
In response to the attack, rights groups and advocates are ramping up their efforts to pressure the Biden administration into halting military aid to Israel. Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of Democracy for the Arab World Now, criticized the ongoing arms sales as “Pavlovian conditioning for a feral army,” underscoring the ethical dilemma posed by continued U.S. support for Israel amidst widespread human rights violations.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) also issued a strong statement, urging President Biden to "respond to this act of state terrorism by immediately stopping the flow of weapons to the Israeli government." CAIR’s message reflects a broader call for accountability, demanding that the U.S. no longer rely on Israel to investigate itself and instead take decisive steps to prevent further civilian casualties.

A Test of U.S. Foreign Policy
The incident at al-Tabin school, coupled with the Biden administration's recent approval of a $3.5 billion military aid package to Israel, has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including former Israeli government adviser Daniel Levy. Speaking to Al Jazeera, Levy highlighted what he described as the "dishonesty and duplicity of the U.S. administration," arguing that Washington's actions reflect not just weakness, but an "ideological alignment" with the policies of Zionist extremism.

As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the pressure on the Biden administration to reassess its relationship with Israel is likely to intensify. Whether this latest tragedy will lead to a meaningful shift in U.S. policy remains to be seen, but the growing chorus of voices demanding change suggests that the status quo may no longer be sustainable.