Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been granted bail, avoiding pre-trial detention for alleged royal insult charges. This event comes amidst a series of legal battles involving key political figures, potentially plunging Thailand into political uncertainty. The cases raise concerns about the power of courts and their influence on the nation’s political landscape.
Haiti’s newly appointed interim prime minister, Garry Conille, 58, has been hospitalized since Saturday afternoon due to an undisclosed illness. Conille, who took office less than two weeks ago, was rushed to a hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties. His office has not released any further information regarding the cause of his hospitalization, but has stated that his condition is currently stable.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), an alleged coup attempt was thwarted by security forces, resulting in the death of three individuals, including two police officers and an attacker. The incident began with an attack on the residence of Vital Kamerhe, a candidate for parliament speaker, which was repelled by his guards. The army spokesperson claims to have regained control after arresting multiple people, including foreigners.
Haiti has taken a step towards political stability and addressing rampant gang violence with the installation of a transitional council on Thursday. The council, tasked with selecting a new prime minister and preparing for presidential elections, was sworn in following the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who had been unable to return to the country due to the violence. The council faces the daunting task of addressing the country’s security crisis, which has claimed thousands of lives and forced tens of thousands to flee their homes. The international community has urged the council to prioritize security and humanitarian assistance.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is considering resigning after a judicial investigation was launched into corruption allegations against his wife. The allegations, which have been denied by Sanchez, have been made by a right-wing legal platform that claims his wife used her position to influence business deals. Sanchez has canceled his public agenda until Monday when he will announce whether he will continue or step down. The investigation comes just weeks before important regional elections in Catalonia, followed by European elections in June.
Suspected jihadists in central Mali have abducted and continue to hold over 110 civilians who were in buses on April 16th. The Malian army has reportedly been conducting operations in the region, but armed groups have continued their attacks in the center and south. Mali has been facing political and humanitarian crises, with the junta silencing the opposition, journalists, and human rights defenders.
