Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of interfering in Venezuela’s elections by deploying Wagner mercenaries to support the government. Meanwhile, protests continue in Venezuela against President Maduro, who has been accused of election fraud. The situation highlights the growing global influence of Russia and China in Venezuela, where both countries have significant investments.
Bangladesh faces ongoing tension as student protesters reject Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s dialogue offer and continue occupying key streets in Dhaka. The protests, sparked by a controversial quota system for government jobs, have resulted in over 200 deaths and widespread unrest. Despite a heightened security presence, students remain determined to abolish the quota system, which they see as discriminatory and unfair.
Bangladesh temporarily blocked access to social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and YouTube on August 2nd, amidst ongoing protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The restrictions were implemented shortly after Turkey announced a similar ban on Instagram. This is not the first time the Bangladeshi government has restricted internet access, as they previously blocked social media during nationwide protests over a controversial quota system.
Nigerian police have been placed on red alert and may seek military assistance after protests against the rising cost of living and government policies turned violent in several cities. At least 13 protesters have been killed, according to Amnesty International, while the government has not commented on the deaths. Further protests are expected amidst widespread anger over President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, which have exacerbated hardship for ordinary Nigerians.
Thousands of Nigerians took to the streets on Thursday, August 1, in widespread protests against the nation’s severe cost-of-living crisis. The demonstrations, dubbed a ‘day of rage,’ saw clashes with security forces, resulting in at least two fatalities. The protests highlight the deep discontent with the government’s handling of the economic crisis, fueled by soaring food prices, tripled fuel costs, and widespread poverty.
Bangladesh has banned the Jamaat-e-Islami party, its student wing, and associated bodies, citing their role in recent violent protests. The ban comes after weeks of unrest over a quota system for government jobs, resulting in over 200 deaths and thousands of arrests. The party has been accused of inciting violence and has a history of controversial actions during Bangladesh’s independence war.
A 17-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of three children and attempted murder of 10 others, including children, following a stabbing spree at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport. The incident triggered protests in the area, with demonstrators marching on Downing Street and clashing with police. The suspect’s identity has not been revealed due to legal reasons.
Tensions flared in Manipur as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) clashed with security forces after a protest demanding their rehabilitation and a resolution to the ongoing ethnic violence was dispersed with tear gas. The violence has claimed over 226 lives and displaced thousands.
Kenya’s Court of Appeal has declared the government’s 2023 finance law unconstitutional, dealing a significant blow to President William Ruto’s administration. The ruling comes after widespread protests against the law, which included tax hikes and new levies. The government can appeal the decision to the Supreme Court.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has requested the United Nations and other international organizations to assist in a thorough investigation into the recent nationwide violence during protests against the quota system. The unrest, which resulted in numerous casualties and widespread damage, stemmed from student demands for the abolition of a quota system that reserved 30% of government jobs for veterans’ relatives. Hasina emphasized the need to bring the perpetrators to justice, while also highlighting the conspiracy theories surrounding the violence.
